How To Spot Craigslist Rental Scams To Avoid

Have you come across a Craigslist rental scam lately? Here are my tips to avoid Craigslist scams and real estate scams so that you can stay safe. Over the past few weeks, we have been searching for the perfect rental home for us to move into, but sadly we have come across many Craigslist rental…

Michelle Schroeder-Gardner

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. See my disclosure for more info.

Have you come across a Craigslist rental scam lately? Here are my tips to avoid Craigslist scams and real estate scams so that you can stay safe.

Over the past few weeks, we have been searching for the perfect rental home for us to move into, but sadly we have come across many Craigslist rental scams. We found many great homes, and actually signed a lease the other day on one (more information on that to come soon).

Even though we found a rental home, we came across many Craigslist scams and Craigslist rental scams firsthand. It led to us wondering “How do I avoid Craigslist rental scams?”

I only received around 10 emails back from potential landlords and three of those I knew were definitely scammers. There might have been others as well. 

Due to this, I knew I had to create a post on the topic of rental scams for people who are looking for apartments and houses on Craigslist for rent.

You can find rental scams everywhere (Craigslist, Zillow, and more), and many people are duped every single day out of hundreds or sometimes thousands of dollars.

P.S. If you are looking for a rental, your credit score can be extremely important. You can check your credit score with Credit Sesame for free here.

Interesting articles on Making Sense of Cents that you may want to read:

How do Craigslist rental scams work? How do rental scams work on Craigslist?

There are cases where the person might not actually be a scammer, but you should be on high alert if you decide to continue through with a potential rental that you are unsure about. 

Hopefully with my advice on renting on Craigslist tips below, you’ll be able to find a REAL rental.

Some scams that you may come across include:

  • Craigslist rental scams
  • Craigslist apartment scams
  • Craigslist housing scams
  • Craigslist vacation rental scams
  • Fake house ads on Craigslist
  • Rent to own scams on craigslist

If you’re wondering if Craigslist rentals are legit – yes, they are! But, you need to be careful. So, before you hand over a check, your credit card, or your driver’s license, please make sure that it is not a Craigslist home scammer that you are dealing with.

Below, you’ll learn how to spot a scammer on Craigslist.

Related: What You Need To Know About Renting A Room In Your House

What happens if you get scammed on Craigslist?

If you get scammed on Craigslist, they may be taking your rent money, security deposit, or even your personal information. Plus, they may waste your valuable time, and you may even be thinking that you are truly moving into the rental property.

This can be heartbreaking, and you definitely do not want this to happen to you.

tiny house interior - Craigslist rental scams

How can you tell if someone is scamming you on Craigslist?

There are a few ways to tell if you are dealing with a Craigslist rental poster. Here’s how to spot a rental scammer on Craigslist.

1. The “landlord” is showing you the home, but do they actually own it?

One of the many Craigslist rental scams I have been hearing about a lot lately is when a scammer seems legitimate and even shows you around the rental. You might believe they are the landlord since they somehow got into the rental, but that isn’t always the case.

Sometimes scammers will break into a back window or even steal the key from the actual landlord so they can show the rental to unsuspecting potential tenants. This can be a huge disaster, as many people will believe the scammer since they are pretending to be the landlord.

Another Craigslist scam I have heard about that is related to this is when a renter moves into a home, pays the deposit, rent, etc., only to find out weeks or months later that the actual owner is at their door. The owner might have been on a long vacation or they might have just let the home sit vacant while trying to sell it, and thieves noticed their absence only to take advantage of the situation. This can be bad as you will have to vacate immediately and you will be out of money, such as the refundable deposit you may have given to the scammer.

My Craigslist rental search tip: Always make sure the person renting out the home is the owner or the property manager.  There are many fake house ads on Craigslist. You can usually do a simple search on who owns the property by looking up city records. You also may be able to call the building’s manager (if there is one) and ask if the apartment is for rent and who is renting it.

2. A rental that seems too good to be true is often one of the many Craigslist rental scams.

This is how some rental scammers try to lure you in and an easy way to know how to spot a scammer on Craigslist. They will create a listing, make the rental sound amazing, offer it at a very low price, not require money upfront, many luxurious amenities for a low price, and so on.

Also, if it says something like smoking and pets are allowed, I would be a little cautious as well. I haven’t seen very many rentals that would just say that upfront unless they were really desperate for a renter.

This is a clue that you might be the victim of a Craigslist scam. If the landlord makes it too easy for you to live in their rental, then you need to be very careful. Scammers are often hoping that someone will be caught up in a “great deal” and come running to them with cash.

My rental search tip: Always do your research before you give anyone money. You should check other listings in the area to see if the rental is comparable and you should also see if the place is actually for rent. In most cases, it is not.

Here’s one Craigslist scam email I received (I actually received this response for two different rentals I inquired about):

How can you tell a scam on Craigslist? fake house ads on craigslist

3. A scammer wants your information or money before you view the home.

If you are asked to fill out a rental application before you view a home, then you might be in the middle of one of the many Craigslist rental scams. The scammer is hoping that you will give them personal information, such as your bank account number, social security number, or something else. They will then disappear once they receive all of this information. This is a bad situation because you basically just gave your identity away.

Also, if you are asked to give money before you are allowed to view a home or see the interior, then something is not right. This is most definitely a scam and you should avoid it. You should never have to pay loads of money in order to just view a home.

My rental search tip: You should always do your research, view the home, and more before you give out any extremely personal information. Occasionally, you may have to give your ID to the landlord, but other than that they should not need anything personal from you just to show you the rental house or apartment. Now, many times the Craigslist rental does for your email address, so that they can contact you. That is fine, simply be safe!

Here’s another Craigslist rental scam e-mail I received. This person sent me two e-mails so I just copied and pasted both e-mails into one so that you can easily read them both:

Craigslist houses for rent

4. The landlord’s email has been compromised – Big Craigslist housing scams!

One scary Craigslist rental scam I recently heard about is when all of the information in a rental listing is correct. The home is actually for rent, the e-mail and phone number are real, and more.

However, when you e-mail the landlord you believe you are actually talking to them. It turns out that you are actually talking to someone who hacked into their e-mail. This can be a scary Craigslist scam as it can be hard to detect.

My rental search tip: Even though this Craigslist rental scam seems difficult, it can be easy to overcome. You should contact the landlord via the phone number that is listed on the real listing and talk to a real person. Then, you should verify everything that was discussed in the e-mails. Most of the time, landlords have no idea that their e-mail address was even hacked.

Related: Phone Scams: The Best Tips To Avoid Becoming A Victim

5. They give you a sob story.

Some rental scammers will give you a sob story in order to make you feel bad for them. But, think about it: why would a landlord need to tell you this at all in the first place?

It’s a business for them.

If they give you some sort of sad story, then it is most likely a scam. Lots of Craigslist rental scammers will give you a sob story such as having to move to take care of family, being forced to move due to the military, or something else.

Don’t believe it.

6. Lots of typos are a red flag

If the email or the paperwork has a lot of typos, then this is usually a sign that you are dealing with a Craigslist rental scam.

So, as you are reading their emails, the home rental application, and more, check to see if there are a lot of glaring mistakes. While the grammar and everything may not be perfect, if there are a lot of obvious errors then I would be a little cautious.

Frequently Asked Questions About Craigslist Rental Scams

Below are answers to common questions about Craigslist rental scams.

How do I verify a rental on Craigslist? How can you tell a scam on Craigslist?

You may be wondering “How do you know if a rental is legit?” or “How do I make sure a Craigslist rental is real?”

There are many different things to be aware of when looking for a rental online. Here are my general tips before falling for Craigslist housing scams or Craigslist apartment scams:

  • Always make sure the person showing the home is the landlord or property manager.
  • If a deal seems too good to be true, then it probably is.
  • If the landlord is trying to push a lot of urgency your way, then I would be wary. For example, if they say that they need someone to move in tomorrow because they are flying overseas, and that’s why they have such a good deal, then they may be a con artist.
  • Be careful with your personal information, so that you are not the victim of identity theft.
  • If anyone ever asks you to wire money, you should not. Most scammers will ask for money to be wired and this should be your first red flag that something is not right. Keep in mind that if you wire money, you CANNOT get it back. Too many people think you can get wired money back.
  • Does the listing and/or e-mail communication with the “landlord” have many misspellings? Does the e-mail refer to you as Sir or Madam? Do they say they are out of the country and cannot show you the home until you pay? Do they claim to be a missionary or a reverend? If any of these are true, then this is usually the sign of a scammer.
  • Does the person never want to meet in person? If you never meet the landlord, then it is most likely a Craigslist rental listing scam. The landlord or their property manager will want to meet you, not avoid you.
  • Do they only want you to peak through the windows in order to view the rental? This is a huge red flag if they never want to meet you and instead want you to only look through the windows. Legitimate landlords will want to meet you and rental ads that state otherwise are most likely fake.
  • Does the Craigslist home for rent seem like a really great deal? If so, you may want to ask yourself why they are offering such a great deal. Real owners don’t think you are doing them a favor. Instead, they see it as a way to make money.
  • Do they mention Western Union or receiving funds via money order? If so, then it may be a scam as scammers love to mention Western Union. You simply want to be careful if they ask for either of these.
  • Are they letting you skip any type of background check? Sometimes there are credit checks, background checks, and so on. If it is too easy to get the rental, then it is probably a scam.
  • Always trust your gut instinct as there are always other places to rent in the world.

As you can see, there are many ways to learn how to spot a rental scammer on Craigslist. There are many fake house ads on Craigslist, so you want to be careful.

Are Craigslist rentals legit? How do I know if a rental is legitimate?

Yes, Craigslist rentals cans be legitimate. I have personally found Craigslist houses to rent (and lived in it) through Craigslist.

Below, you will see how to tell if a Craigslist rental is legitimate or if it is a fake Craigslist ad, and how to spot red flags.

Are Craigslist rentals safe? Is renting from Craigslist safe?

Yes, Craigslist rentals can be safe. You simply need to follow the tips in this article so that you can stay away from Craigslist rental scams and find legitimate home rentals.

Why do people post fake rentals on Craigslist?

People post fake rental ads on Craigslist because they are scammers and are looking for easy money. Plus, some potential renters who may be looking for a new home may be a little desperate as well, because everyone needs a place to live in, of course.

Is it safe to rent a room from Craigslist?

Yes, it can be safe to rent a room from Craigslist. Follow the tips here, and make sure you get along with your potential future roommates.

You also want to be safe on Facebook Marketplace, and anywhere else where you may be looking at potential homes to rent.

What can a Craigslist scammer do with my phone number?

A scammer can use the phone number that you give them to scam others, through Google Voice. I recommend being careful with giving your phone number out.

Someone posted my house for rent on Craigslist, what do I do?

If you have a realtor or real estate agent and your house or condo are currently for sale, I highly recommend contacting them and seeing what you can do. This is because many times homes that are for sale will be listed for rent on Craigslist through a fake ad.

You should also report the fraudulent Craigslist ad to Craigslist. Doing this will help to curb Craigslist rental frauds and help anyone who may fall for the Craigslist rental scam.

You also will want to go to your local police department and attorney general to see what they can do for you as well.

How do I protect myself from Craigslist rental scams? How do I avoid getting scammed on Craigslist?

Don’t give money or any of your personal information (such as your bank account number, social security number, and so on) until you are 100% sure that it is a real rental on Craigslist.

Also, if the person requests money or your personal info from you before you even view the rental property, then I would be careful as well.

You will want to make sure you do your research before you give the person cashier’s checks, a PayPal account, or even Venmoing or sending a Zelle payment to them. Whatever way that they ask for payment, you simply want to be careful and spend your time to make sure that you are not dealing with a Craigslist scammer.

Unfortunately, there are many Craigslist rental scams on the internet which are scamming potential renters.

P.S. There are over 200 comments below (you may have to click “« Older Comments” to see all of them), and many of you have been sharing your Craigslist rental scam stories and screenshots of exact emails. This is a great way to learn how to catch a rental scammer on Craigslist. Let’s continue to help one another out, thank you!

How to spot Craigslist housing scams? How to spot a rental scammer on Craigslist? 

I hope you enjoyed today’s article on how to find Craigslist rental scams. There are definitely many fake ads out there, but do not let a Craigslist scammer deter you. There are ways to learn how to avoid rental scams on Craigslist so that you don’t get scammed.

Instead, I recommend doing your research and being careful before you hand over money or start a wire transfer. You may want to ask locals about a specific rental property, search anything you can on Google to see if the rental pops up for you (such as if you can see any complaints for that specific address), reaching out to a property management company, and more. This is so that you can make sure you are talking to the true owner of the property or whoever works for them.

After all, you don’t want to give scam artists a security deposit, Moneygram, first month’s rent, application fee, cashier’s checks, Venmo, Zelle, or whatever else they want without some verification that it is all real.

And, if a landlord asks you to send over gift cards as a form of payment, it is most likely fake and you are dealing with a Craigslist scammer. I have never, never heard of a landlord asking for a gift card as payment. It can be easy to fall for a rental scam, especially in today’s rental market where there is no rental inventory, which can lead to a lot of desperation.

Also, please be careful and watch out for Craigslist sublet scams. You can use many of the same Craigslist rental scam tips above to avoid Craigslist sublet scams.

But, there are legitimate rentals on Craigslist, you simply need to be careful. This may mean making sure to meet the property owner face-to-face, doing some research on the contact information that you are given, and more before you give a personal check and last month’s rent.

I, personally, have found a home rental on Craigslist and it was a great home. You can find Craigslist apartment rentals, Craigslist house rentals, and more that are legitimate – you just have to be careful.

What Craigslist rental scams and Craigslist apartment scams have you seen or heard about? Have you wondered how Craigslist rental scams work? Have you ever been the victim of any type of scam?


Michelle Schroeder-Gardner

Author: Michelle Schroeder-Gardner

Hey! I’m Michelle Schroeder-Gardner and I am the founder of Making Sense of Cents. I’m passionate about all things personal finance, side hustles, making extra money, and online businesses. I have been featured in major publications such as Forbes, CNBC, Time, and Business Insider. Learn more here.

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  1. J

    wrote:
    Thank for your email regarding my rental home. The home is still available for rent, located at 137 Temple Wood Ct, Las Vegas, NV 89148 I’m looking for a responsible tenant and neat person or family who can treat my property as his or her own. We request first month rent $1000 and $1000 security deposit fee before move in, also you can go by the home and check it out, and if you like the home then you can write me back or call me for more details I can be reached at (786) 463-3745

    A bit about me…I have recently moved to Miami FL to pursue an exciting opportunity I have been given with my job. I work for the Walgreen Co. (Walgreens), with whom I have been employed for almost 17 years. I will be taking the role of District Operations Trainer for the Cleveland District, which stretches all the way through to some other state. It will be a challenge, but one I am very excited about. I support training on new computer system upgrades and on operational process enhancements. I serve as a resource for both Store and Pharmacy Managers to answer and train them on any operations process or change in our company systems. I also do soft skills training on points like basic leadership topics and customer service.

    I just want you to get notice that the keys are here with me in Miami FL you can only view the home from the outside for now! If you drive by the home you may see a sign there, you have nothing to worry about it belongs to my previous agent so you have absolutely nothing to worry about and you don’t have to call them because they do not have access to the premises anymore!

    I did not entrust the place in the care of any agent or anyone because I want to deal directly with the tenant myself because of the last experience I had with my tenant.
    I tried to look for an agent that I could believe and trust to give the document & the keys before I left but could not find any as a matter of urgency. And I don’t want the place to be misused in my absence that is why I took the keys and documents along with me and renting this place will give you access to the rest of the property and you won’ t have no one to share anything with.

    So I hope you will promise to take very good care of the property when you move in which is my main concern and I’ll love a tenant to landlord relationship between us this is why I want to handle this all by myself, whereby you and I can ask questions, get things done and build a good rental relationship, I want a scenario whereby my tenant and I can communicate as family and not strangers, hope you get my points?
    Here is an question you need to answer for us to know you more better and use it to fill the original application form with us here in other to proceed on sending the keys and document to you, I’ll like to know few things about you and your family such as below

    PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
    Full Name__________________________________________________ Home Phone ( ) ________________________
    Date of Birth_________________________________
    Cell Phone ( ) ___________________
    Current Address_______________________________Apt#________ City__________________ State______ Zip________
    Reasons for Leaving____________________________Rent $__________Phone ( ) ____________________________
    Are you married____________________________
    How many people will be living in the house____________________________
    Do you have a pet____________________________
    Do you have a car____________________________
    Occupation____________________________
    Move In Date________________________How Long Did You Want To Stay________________________

    Please have this in mind that you are talking to a very nice and good family, if you find any of our question inconvenience please don’t be offended but answer it because we want and like to know the kind of family that will be living in our house from day one so nothing from them will be strange to us again.

    Thank you and Stay Blessed.
    (786) 463-3745

  2. J

    ajan.bandan@aol.com> wrote:
    Okay locate any wells fargo bank around you and make a cash deposit to my fiance account, her name Barbara Fields account # 1313955682, as soon as you make the cash deposit snapshot the wells fargo deposit slip and send it to me!

    1. J

      A copy what my scammer sent me today. I’m so pissed off that he’s going to do this to someone else!

    2. J

      My husband sent this reply: Ok great, I’ll go ahead and get that ready for you. I’ll just need to confirm that you are the owner of the home.
      I’ll need you to put my name on the list with security at Rhodes Ranch so I can go check out the place, and I’ll need you to send me a copy of your ID.
      My wife is a police officer and she can use your ID to confirm everything is in order.
      Once we’ve done that I’ll deposit the funds in your account.
      Thank you again, talk to you soon.

  3. Chris

    WOW! I was looking into temporary living in Aurora, and the email and form seems very similar to the one’s posted earlier on this forum. I think I’m going to pass on this.

    ———————

    Hello Chris,

    Thanks for your interest in the unit. However, if you are still interested, kindly find below the quote rate for the unit and also attached is the application form.

    This is a 2 Bedroom + 2 Bathroom unit which sleeps with ease and convenience 6-8 people located in 11985 E Cornell Cir, Aurora, CO. The price of the rent is $1600 MONTHLY, which also covers for the utilities in the unit. You are to make a down payment of the rental fee of the first month plus a Security fee of $500 and $100 for cleaning which enables you reserve and secure the unit for your move-in date. The advance payment is required before arrival.

    NOTE:- Security fee will be REFUNDED back to you. The Security fee is not applied towards rental fee, however it is fully REFUNDABLE on the day of your departure, provided the safety of all the amenities in the unit are met.

    Amenities include:- Fully furnished living room, Central air conditioning, Wi-Fi internet access , Parking space available, High quality Linens, dishes, Flat Screen TV with Cable and DVD player, Fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave, ice maker etc.

    QUOTATION
    1 MONTH = $1600
    SECURITY FEE = $500
    CLEANING = $100
    TOTAL AMOUNT = $2200

    What is required of you to hold the unit is to make an advance payment of the first month rental fee ($1600) plus the Security fee of $500 which will be refunded back to you on your departure date, and $100 for cleaning.

    Kindly fill the Application Form attached and get back to me with the filled out Application Form. I will review your application then give you a call afterwards. So we can proceed to the Agreement Rental Booking form to fill your reservation.

    I will be looking forward to read back from you soon.

    Thanks,

  4. DONNA SHOVE

    Hello, How are you Doing today, I hope fine, I am so glad you are Interested in my House, My Initial plan was to sell the House but I changed my Mind and Decided to rent it out, The Sale sign board will be removed from the House as soon as i get a tenant, The house is available for rent, so you are free to decide on how long you intend occupying it. Rent already includes utilities. You can go by the house and let me know what you think. The address of my house is 3907 E Liberty Ave, Spokane, WA 99217
    I am a Very Busy Man and I have been transferred here for a contract.I’m spending 2 – 3 years here and am planning to buy another house over here. I want you to know that you will not be able to view the inside of the house as the keys are with me here in California. If you like the house we can now move forward on how to get keys sent across to you. I’m ready to accept either monthly or upfront mode of payment, depending on the one you are most Comfortable with. Utilities include: power, water, washer/dryer,sewer and trash.Your monthly rent already covers utilities so you do not have to pay extra charges for that. Pet are allowed as long as they are not destructive. The monthly rent is $770 while security deposit is $750.MORELLI, F JOHN
    (734) 535-8914. Text only as I’m very busy and I can only call you back upon request

  5. Donna M. Shove

    On May 21, 2017 7:33 AM, “Matthew Godwin” wrote:
    Hello,

    Thanks for your interest and inquiries about my house. Yes the house is still available for rent and we are looking for a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the house now that we are not around. Myself and Wife just travelled to West Africa for a program called SERVING IN MISSION (SIM), you can view the link for more info: ().

    We will be away for 2 to 3 years or more that is why I have made up my mind to put up my house for rent to whom ever that will take good care of it. However, my initial plan was to sell the house but it was not successful because the Realtor raised the price which made it difficult for me to sell before leaving the States so never mind if you see the for sale sign in front of the house, It has already been taken off the market as for sale so there is no need to contact any Realtor.

    Also how long do you intend to stay? How soon do you intend to move in?

    FEATURES : Laundry, Electric Range, Electric Heat, Master Bedroom, Playground, Car Park.
    AMENITIES: Air Conditioning, Patio/Party Deck, Cable TV, Ceiling Fans, 24 hours Internet service, Dishwasher, Fireplace, Garbage Disposal, Microwave, security alarm, Pets Friendly, Refrigerator, Washer / Dryer.

    Rental Price: $720 per month and security Deposit is $720(Security Deposit is Refundable) Utilities included in monthly rent
    Pets are Welcome.
    Below is the address to the house:
    (3917 N Cincinnati St, Spokane, WA 99207)

    Get back to me so i can forward you the rent questionnaire i would want you to fill out.

    Regards.
    Mr & Mrs Matthew Godwin

    these are two responses to rental inquires that i received today in Spokañe, Wa.

    and thîs îs ône of my replies

    “So let me guess. We just send you the $ and you will send us the keys right?
    I probably won’t contact the realtor but I sure will contact the police since it is illegal to place ads to rent something that does not belong to you.”

  6. Becky Davis

    We *are* trying to rent rooms in our home, and *are* in another state. We got two text messages (unfortunately 4 days apart), claiming to be the parent of a student who was studying abroad, and asking us to email the student. The student is always a foreigner (German, Chinese), with one US parent, who will be paying their bills. They ask to see photos, know more about us, tell us a bit about them, etc. They want to know our info, so they can wire the money to us, even though we tell them we are NOT ready to rent to them yet, as we insist on speaking with them and their parent, doing some background checks, etc. However, it’s already too late. They now have the legitimate names, phones, out-of-state & local addresses, plus all our home photos to duplicate our listing and scam others. We got sucked in by the first “student” and only realized we were duped when the second “student” replied to our email with a too similar story. What a waste of time to have to search Craigslist for jerks who are trying to scam others for our rental listing.

  7. Ben

    Had this happen to me several times. BE AWARE 🙂

    Common things I find with these scammers:
    1. Email name does not match their signature name (email is Matthew, signature is Mathew. Email is Stephen, signature is Steven).
    2. They don’t speak proper English
    3. They insist they are living in a different country.
    4. They insist on you dropping a security deposit before even viewing.
    5. They never leave a phone number in their email signature.
    6. They steal realtors/brokers identities. For example:

    “The building is managed by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Send an email to jeffrey.gibson@sothebysagents.com quoting #75B4872-17 as your tenancy application number. He would proceed from there.”

    However, after doing some digging, I find out Jeffrey’s REAL email is Jeffrey.Gibson@sothebyshomes.com. There’s no such thing as an email domain of @sothebysagents.com.

    Here’s some more common wording from these scammers:

    After going through all the tenancy applications we’ve received, yours and two other prospective tenants have shortlisted. However, I’m giving you an advantage over the two others to secure the unit ahead of them. I trust you will take good care of the unit during your stay. I assure you that from my own part, you will get the best of service and comfort during your stay. Owing to the high quality standard of service & comfort we render to our tenants during their stay in the apartment, our units are usually never vacant. 80% of old tenants do renew their lease while most new prospective tenants tend to secure units weeks before they become vacant. The unit is currently occupied which makes it unavailable for viewing now. The current tenant (who is relocating to another city to start a new job) lease would run out on the July 15th. This means that the unit will be available for viewing and move in from July 17th after repair works. Because of the high demand, rush and high competitiveness of the real estate market in this city, I’m giving you the opportunity to put a hold on the unit so it can be taken the market now and have it reserved in your name pending your arrival. To put a hold on the unit, you will be required to fill out the apartment lease reservation form with the real estate agencey responsible for the management of the apartment complex and make a down payment of only the first month rent and the security deposit. By doing this, you now have a hold on the unit pending your final decision of either move in or instant refund when you eventually arrive. If upon arrival you find that the unit is not in the same state as you had hoped and you decide not to continue with the lease, all your initial down payment will be fully refunded to you. This clause will be clearly stated in the lease booking contract of the apartment which is binding by the state’s rental laws. If you are fine with these my terms and would like to place a hold on the unit so as not to lose it, do let me know so I can provide you with the contact email address of the building managemnt to run you through the process by sending you the appropriate forms for you to fill out. Thanks once again for your time and understanding on this regard and I look forward to hearing from you soonest.

    OR THIS ONE:

    Good morning and thanks for your interest in my home, my fiancee and i are looking to lease my unit which is still very much available. I am a Geologist and my work can be quite tedious because it involves mineral researches, I’m an easy going person and also very friendly. I like music and have deep interests in traveling. I respect every religion and also love to hang around with people and i am definitely not a trouble maker and very helpful in nature. I just moved to Worland, Wyoming now due to my new research and also to be close to my fiancee as we are about getting married in few weeks time. The unit is located in a safe and secured neighborhood which i think is the most important thing for one to know before relocating. You are free to drive or walk by so you can tour the exterior of the building if you wish. Unit Address (711 E Denny Way, Seattle, WA 98122) Rent: $1550 Damage Deposit: $550. Only well behaved pets are welcomed, utilities included (Heat, Water, Electricity and Internet/Cable). The minimum lease term is 2 months, and a maximum of 1 years with also possibility of extension. I and my fiancee decided to handle the rental process ourselves due to our past experience with estate agents and tenant because all they care about is their own commission instead of taking time to verify applicants application and do a proper background check before leasing to such individual, the last tenant that rented from us through an estate agent destroyed most of our valuable home appliances. I know how much i spent to replace the things that was destroyed in the home, a whole lot of people have contacted me regarding the home but not just sure of who to accept due to the horrible experience we had with the last tenant. All we want is a very responsible, trustworthy and caring person that will take care of the home like his/her own and if you can assure me that the unit will be in good hands, i would be happy to let you rent from me for as long as you wish.

    Fill out the rental application form below and send it back to me as soon as you can if you are really interested in renting my unit. As i will be happy to give you a call once this is done, because it is always best we speak over the phone..

    *****RENTAL APPLICATION FORM****
    (Private and Confidential)

    FIRST NAME:
    MIDDLE NAME:
    LAST NAME:
    (CELL)PHONE:
    (OFFICE)PHONE:
    BEST TIME TO CALL:
    EMAIL:
    KIDS : (YES/NO), HOW MANY :
    PRESENT ADDRESS:
    CITY:
    STATE:
    ZIP CODE:
    WHEN DO YOU INTEND MOVING IN:
    HOW LONG DO YOU INTEND STAYING:
    HOW MANY MONTH RENT ARE YOU WILLING TO PAY UPFRONT:
    HOW SOON CAN YOU MAKE THE DEPOSIT FEES:
    DO YOU HAVE PET :
    KIND OF PETS:
    HABITS:
    DO YOU SMOKE :
    DO YOU DRINK :
    DO YOU WORK LATE NIGHT:
    REFERENCE……..
    NAME:
    ADDRESS:

    Please make sure this questions are fill correctly because the best way you answer with your filled details will impress me the more to accept your application.

    N:B: However, my initial plan was to sale out the unit which i tried but sometimes the agents inflates the price and it takes longer to sell. I am telling you this just in case if you find the unit on another website, that is the old advert. Because of this reason and more we need a rental agreement with a responsible person that can take very good care of it as we are not after the money but want it to be clean and for you to take care of it as if it were yours. We would be looking forward to receiving your email as soon as possible.

    Good evening and thanks for your mail and also with the warm response. I was in well receipt of your filled rental application form and i must confess that we both did find it very very satisfactory and believe you to be the best occupant for our home. Myself and my fiancee are very exited and willing to let you move into our home as soon as possible as we have concluded on accepting you to move in as soon as you are ready. So as we shall be renting our unit to you, please we want you to take very good care of the unit because i had spend a lot of money on the property so we might be glad when coming by sometime end of this year to see how neat you’ve been keeping the place. Hope everything about this process is fine with you? However, if you are ready to rent our home now that will not be a problem but i will advice you due to you are a responsible and reliable person, a refundable security deposit will be made before moving in and also i would like to send the following document to you via FedEx Courier Service to the address you’ve provided to me in the rental application form and the tracking number will be sent to you so that you can possible occupy our home immediately. Once again, we are giving you this based on trust and please do not disappoint us as we promise that you would love our home as i believe you must have seen how well organized and maintained it is from the pictures compared to the 100% comfort you would be deriving from it been an occupant. The package containing the (Keys, Documentations, Payment Receipt) will be delivered withing 24 hours to you as soon as you are ready to move in to the unit.

    NB: I want you to know that we would be sending you the package via FedEx courier company as soon as you make the payments for the refundable deposit which is $550. Let me know If i could forward you the Information on how and where to send the money through any local Money Transfer outlet nearest to you, so i can get all the package sent to you immediately for your move in. Attached here is the soft copy of the tenancy lease and agreement form for your review as the hard copy comes along with the keys and documents which i would be posting over to your current home address..

    These are a few examples. If the apartment is too good to be true, it probably is! Trust your gut and don’t give out personal info (:

    1. Hams

      This guy had 3 postings on padmapper. I didn’t give out much information thankfully, but it seemed legit, but I got the same exact e-mail you got about being on the application shortlist. Just wrote to him and told him I know he’s a scammer and that I’ve reported him

  8. Lafter

    I was looking to see if the nightmare landlords we just got burned big time, young couple places ad for nice farm rural pole barn on 5 acres, with farm acres shared, cute little 2bd 1 bth, huge barn auto door, chicken pen, various fruit trees, garden, well, for 600$ a month, the thing is, we were in dire need to move right away escaping toxic black mold from previous landlord(slumlord). we had to wait 3 months, held up temporarily in tiny apt, that also had mold and leaked out every wall window and crack when raining, waiting for them to supposedly close on their new located home in Kentucky, I meet the wife, we attempt twice to get lease to print, her printer wouldn’t work so she sends it via my email. 2 days later, I call her husband to tell him where he wanted his rent sent too, we had already began moving our belongings into barn garage, since he was out of town, and claimed he had no account yet set up in kentucky to give it to his parents, we called them over, handed the rent plus security as per agreed, but, nobody has a receipt, so I found my checkbook cancelled the check wrote amount in cash, but they were very weird about signing it, finally got the mother, to grudgingly sign, that was when all my alarms went off about them, within 3 days, their ”friend” neighbor was over on our rented property spraying herbicide all around the future chicken pen, the well from where we’d be drinking, when I saw him he had already drenched those areas, I sent text to wife of landlord in knetucky asking for her to call asap, she blew me off, right then and there I sent her my 30 day notice due to them breaching no reciept offered for full payment of rent and deposit, plus neighbor being uninvited and certainly without notice spraying toxic chemicals around my rented space and food areas, then landlord asks us to allow his parents back again after all day of mowing, moving and no dinner yet, at 8pm so they could explain the lease, that went down like insane madness, the mother walked in my door, insulting, scolding telling me how things are going to be, I have no say so about the neighbor, or them having full reign whenever they wanted? her husband the father got so angry from me saying oh no you won’t, he pounded his fist so hard on the kitchen counter he literally bounced my dishes in dishwasher out of the racks and splattered my scent wax all over the counter, while his wife, the landlords mother was out accosting my husband with her phone having her son, our landlord telling us to leave!! insane? oh yes, $1200.00 later, within 3 days we had been poisoned, harassed, intimidated, bossed, bullied, and almost ripped off, not to mention they put in rental photos a really nice wood burner, with plenty of wood, within a week the dad was over trying to take it due to some insurance nonsense, I looked it up, and they were lying about that too, had I let that man take it? I think they’d had tried to blame us for the loss, that is what pissed em off the most, because they have not stopped banging on our front door, we had to change the locks due to me being home all week alone, while my husband drives a big truck all week OTR. so the message is clear, the kids get used to get the money making all these extravagant promises, leave for kentucky, leaving the unsuspecting new renters stuck with drunk crazy neighbors who have no respect for the living, and even came over and dumped their yard waste in our yard and claimed our landlords from kentucky said he could, we moved here for the no neighbor concept, no poison, can have chickens and pets the wood stave a plus because of the harsh winters, if you see an ad for Calamus Iowa, pole barn 2bd 1 bath, wood burner stove, acres to mow, as care taker? run, 1200.00 maybe a good deal, but the baggage they don’t tell you that you end up with, ain’t worth it, I have tried calling all forms of legal help and nothing but crickets in return for help. we are now out 1200bux, in one month having to move again because as soon as they got our money, they began trying to evict us, within 3 days of receipt. we are legally in the right and they legally cannot evict us, but hey, as southern blood says, we just won’t be staying where we ain’t welcome, the physical address is, 1721 265th street Calamus Iowa, trust me, unless you like being babysat, poisoned, ruled around, you may want to report it, they seem to take it down asa they get a bite, because the very next day after we looked at the place, it was gone!!

  9. Rich

    This is the scam email I just fell for on Craig’s list:
    From Readyhouse69@gmail.com

    Hello,
    Sorry for not replying on time i want you to know it is still available for rent , I own the house, I intend to give the place out to someone or family who actually knows what it takes to care for one’s property, I do not have any Realtor or Management company responsible for the house that is why i am the one handling the process myself and from the address below you can go check out the house, I am from a Christian Family, Though i am passionate about this issues around homelessness and helping those experiencing it find sustainable solutions. I actually do volunteer work for a Faith Based Organization called heart support that aids in suicide awareness and provides free help for depression, addiction, and recovery. I have experience with suicide prevention activism as well; I was on the Farmington, Michigan suicide prevention task force, “S.A.F.E.” (Suicide Awareness For Everyone), for two years before moving to Missouri. I have also done lots of volunteer work, for example, I volunteered at a shelter called Our Fathers House. There I cared for the children as the parents attended classes and went on job hunts. I also have done some charity work in the past for Live out loud charity. It is a charity for suicide prevention charity around the world. I wanted to sell this House before leaving the state since i am presently in MISSOURI through impacting people’s life positively, So you should discard any for sale sign with number at the front of the house because it is no longer for sale and that is why i am taking out my time in looking for whom i can rent it to myself, It is vacant now i need a tenant to take up that responsibility of looking after the house in my absent like his or her own, Also i will be away for 4-6 years or more and this is why am actually renting it out so if you are still interested and will take good care of the house then i will be ready to rent the house for as long as you would want and will accept you as my tenant.

    The house address is: 1812 N Grovedale Ave, Jackson, MI 49203
    House details in summary: 3 beds 1.5 baths, Monthly rent of $700, Security Deposit of $600… PETS ARE WELCOME! All UTILITIES such as Air Conditioner Dishwasher Walk-in Closet Refrigerator, Water, Vaulted Ceilings Washer/Dryer Cable, Internet etc are all included in the rent. Get back to me if you are interested so i can forward you the RENT QUESTIONNAIRE.

    Owner’s name: Mr. John Worsham

    Fill out the questionnaire below so we can proceed further to the next step ASAP.

    1)Your Full Name?
    2)Your Full Address?
    3)Cell Phone: Home Phone: & Work Phone?
    4)Are you married?
    5)Age & Email Address?
    6)How many people will be living in the house?
    7)Do you have a pet?
    8)Do you have a car?
    9)Occupation?
    10)When will you like to move in?
    11)How long are you willing to stay in the property?
    12)References, Current Landlord Info, Job History and Income?
    13)Do you smoke or drink?
    14)Reasons why you want to rent my house?
    15) How many months rent can you pay upfront?
    16) Best time to call you?
    17 Additional Information about yourself?
    18) How Soon can you secure the house?
    19) How much do you have at hand now, if you are told to secure the house today?
    20) What else will you do in making my house better?.

    I Look forward hearing back from you with the questionnaire filled.

  10. S. Desbonne

    I recently encountered a Craigslist scammer who claimed to be living in Indiana for two years, so renting out a room.
    He made it sound too good to be true by claiming that he was renting a room, but the entire house would be mine because he was away for two years.
    The scammer sent me the address and said I could drive by and look. I did a search for the address on Zillow, and found that the house was listed for rent by a legitimate managing firm.
    I downloaded photos of the interior, and sent them to the scammer along with the interior photos he had sent me…I congratulated the scammer on the wonderful job he had done renovating the kitchen, which was totally different from the photo he sent.
    Never heard from him again…

    1. Michelle

      I knew this was too good to be true. Here is the email i received a couple days ago:Notice the name at the bottom says Roy Thomas, yet when i checked city records, the house is under the name of a female with a different last name.

      Thanks for the interest in my House, my house is still available for rent and is located at (712 47th Way S, Birmingham, AL 35222). quite and safe. I only need someone that can take good care of the house in my absence because right now am not around i just secured a contract in ( Georgia ) here in United States, Am here with the house keys and documents, I tried to look for management before i left but i couldn’t get anyone on time but the one i got we had a deal and later my wife advised me against it, I reason with her and accept her advise. so i contacted the agent back and let her understand that i am no longer interested in her handling the property anymore then we decided to have the house for rent out by ourselves. We would have given the agent this job, but the truth of the matter is that agent would want to handle it professionally and the occupant might not be able to reason with her. If you notice, you will discover that the price we are offering is below the standard price this is enough for you to know that we are not after the rental fee but the absolute perfect care of the house. So if you have a good reference you can email me back to secure and occupy my house in my absence.

      NB: You can go to check the neighborhood and get back to me for further discussion, any sign post will be remove once i get any responsible tenant so you ignore the sign post because i have stopped dealing and contacting the Realtor for too much fees i paid and the Realtor was trying to rip me off. It is available for a long term lease as we would be here for probably 5 years or more and we are also intending to buy a new house here in ( Georgia ). (Security deposit required) which is $500. I would need your References, Pets Acceptable. The rent fee is $500 per month including the utilities, Get back to me as soon as possible because i need a tenant urgently and i can also forward the application form to you if you are interested.

      General house description:
      Beautiful 2 Bd. 1 Ba. Quiet Cul-di-sac.Main Level: Spacious Family Room. Dining Room with Built-in Hutch. Open Kitchen with Lots of Cabinet Space. 1 Full Bath. Oversize Master Bedroom with Large Walk-in Closet. Basement. Main level laundry (washer & dryer included).

      Best Regards

      Roy Thomas

  11. i hate missionnaires

    u guys my scammer is so sickening omg i can’t believe i almost fell for it. he’s scamming in Victoria, BC. Canada… a missionary i thought, but no, actually a therapist… I’m sick to my stomach, see for ur self….

    “Hello ,

    Thanks for your email and interest in the property. I personally own the property and also want you to know that it was due to my transfer that made me and my wife to leave the property and also want to give it out for rent and looking for a responsible person that can take very good care of it as we are not after the money for the rent but want it to be clean at the time and the person that will rent it to take it as if it were its own. So for now, We are here in United State, our new house and also with the keys and documents of the house, we try to look for an agent that we can give this documents before we left but could not see and we are as well as don’t want our property to be used any how in our present that is why we took it along with us. I and my wife came over to United State I WORK WITH ABUSED CHILDREN AND SEXUALLY ABUSED CHILDREN.I,M A THERAPIST, so i hope you will promise us to take very good care of the house. kindly get back to me on how you could take care of our house or perhaps experience you have in renting home. The rent fee is included all the utilities . I am looking forward to hear from you ASAP so that i can forward you an application form to fill out and discuss on how to get the property for rent.

    God bless you ”

    sickening.

    and then asked for money transfer with a address that lead to no where hahahahaha

    wow….

    i just can’t believe it

  12. Don Scotten

    I recently submitted an online application for a house for rent. I was notified yesterday (approximately 2 weeks after submitting the app), that I was approved and that I would receive an email Docusign with the documents that I could sign online. A nice 3 bedroom home for only $500/month. Landlord pays all utilities. And…only $500 down, but that must be paid using a “MoneyPak” card that I could purchase. Once purchased, I was to notify the property agent (Susan Johnson) with the PIN. Needless to say, I didn’t fall for it.

  13. Augustus

    Example of a scam in Victoria, BC, Canada:

    Hello,

    Thank you very much for taking your time to email me. l want you to know that the property you are writing me about is still available for move in but before we proceed any further l want you to know that the kind of tenant l am looking forward to have,clean,quiet,respectful and responsible someone that will treat the house with care and respect. l don’t need the partying type but if you can assure me of the safety of the house if i decided to accept you as my new tenant l will be happy to let you rent from me for as long as you wish.I want you to know am on the missionary assignment here with me and my family to United state .
    The house is located in a safe and secured neighborhood which i think it is the most important thing for one to know before relocating. You are free to drive or walk by so you can tour the exterior of the building if you wish. Me and my wife decided to handle the rental process ourselves due to our past experience with estate agents and tenant because all they care about is their own commission instead of taking time to verify applicants application and do a proper background check, the last tenant that rented from us through an estate agent destroyed most of our valuable home appliances. I know how much me and my wife spent to replace the things that was destroyed in the house,a whole lot of people have contacted me regarding the house but not just sure of who to accept due to the horrible experience we had with the last tenant so i am really taking my time to look for a very responsible person
    that we can trust in as a tenant, all i want is a very responsible person that will take care of the house like his/her own and if you can assure me of the house will be in good hands, i will be happy to let you rent from me for as long as you wish.

    Fill the rental application form below and send it back to me as soon as you can if you are really interested in renting the house.

    *****RENTAL APPLICATION FORM****
    ( Private and Confidential )
    Fill below information correctly…
    FIRST NAME:__________
    MIDDLE NAME:__________
    LAST NAME:__________
    (CELL)PHONE__________
    KIDS _____ (YES/NO), HOW MANY ________
    PRESENT ADDRESS: _____________________
    CITY: _______________
    STATE:______________
    ZIP CODE: ____________
    WHEN DO YOU INTEND MOVING IN? ______________
    HOW LONG DO YOU INTEND STAYING? ____________
    WHY ARE YOU LEAVING? _______________________________________________________________________
    HOW MANY MONTH RENT ARE YOU WILLING TO PAY UPFRONT_________
    HOW SOON CAN YOU MAKE THE DEPOSIT FEES_________
    DO YOU HAVE PET _________
    HABITS
    DO YOU SMOKE ______________
    DO YOU DRINK ______________
    DO YOU WORK LATE NIGHT _________
    PICTURES OF OCCUPANT _____________
    REFERENCE
    NAME_____________
    ADDRESS_____________

    Applicant represents that all information given on this application is true and correct. Applicant hereby authorizes verification of all references and facts. l look forward to hearing from you once you have filled the rental application so that we can proceed with the rental process.

    Thanks And God Bless You

    1. Mark

      Just got the same “missionary in the US” one here in Burnaby. And one in Richmond. Another one where the renter is claiming she is in the Philippines and renting out a place in Surrey. The common thread with all three is a suggestion I drive by the place to see the exterior of the house before continuing. I mean, what? Clear sign they don’t actually have the place to show/rent. Is mixed in with a lot of other info though, so could see how some people would fall for it.

      So aggravating, wasting my time! And probably will scam some people. How can they be stopped?!

  14. Rick Waller

    I replied to a CL ad and eventually rented a small “room” for $800/mo in West LA. For a normal-sized or larger room, this is a fair market price for the area. Since the deposit was half the rent, I made due with the square footage, at least until other red flags showed up. The room itself seems to have been built as an addition later than the original building, as it has 3 exterior walls and the solo interior wall shared with the other bedroom (wait for it)… with a DOOR in between, as if the room was built up from a balcony. A few months later when I learned the couple living in the other room were only paying $1100, it was clear that this situation was an “unbalanced split of rent” scam. 40% of the total for 20% of the space, and the lazy bum wife nesting in the living room for 16 hours of CNN every day, week, after month. I wish I could warn the next guy so somebody else doesn’t get hustled.

    1. Lowflyin Lolana

      What a drag! Yeah 800 dollars/mo sounds about right. I’m in Long Beach and my rent just got jacked 300.00. You can’t find anything in LA County for a decent price unless it’s something rigged up like that. That’s how property owners are making their nut. It’s really sad.
      What’s frustrating is that rental companies want you to make three times the rent. My rent is going to take up at least 40 percent of my income now….and I know that’s true for a lot of people. My income has been the same for the last 20 years, and I’m a unionized professional, college educated, bla bla.
      But the economy is booming, they say…

  15. Peter

    Hi i understand what you’re trying to say but i can assure you that you’re safe with me. I’m a man of God and i don’t think i can do anything to harm you so please put your mind at rest . Here are couple pictures to make it clear to you.

    Pablo

    On Sat, Apr 14, 2018 at 11:50 AM, Peter wrote:
    THanks for your response. Due to the high number of scammers on Craigslist pretending to be owners I wont be sending money to anyone out of state. I will require to meet the owner in person and see identification prior to any money being exchanged.

    From: Angela Turner
    Sent: Friday, April 13, 2018 8:05 PM
    To:
    Subject: Re: Hello I’m Pablo

    Thanks for your interest in my apartment .The apartment is available for long term & short term lease is also acceptable. The building is in a great location situated in the quiet and safe area and offers secure access. internet, cable, laundry in-suite, storage facilities, heat, water, electric and parking are included in the rent

    I tried to look for an agent that I could give the document & the keys before I left but could not find any as a matter of urgency. And I don’t want home misused in my absence that is why I took the keys and documents along with me. So I hope you will promise me to take very good care of the apartment always.

    I have the keys and the apartment documents here with me and I will be shipping it to you through DHL courier service after processing your application form. Attached are the interior pictures and if you like it and willing to proceed with the rental. I will like you to fill the form below and email it back to me asap for processing.

    RENTAL APPLICATION FORM

    FIRST NAME:__________
    MIDDLE NAME:__________
    LAST NAME:__________
    (CELL)PHONE__________
    (HOME)PHONE__________
    KIDS _____ (YES/NO), HOW MANY ________

    PRESENT ADDRESS: _____________________
    CITY: _______________
    STATE:______________
    ZIP CODE: ____________
    WHEN DO YOU INTEND MOVING IN? ______________
    HOW LONG DO YOU INTEND STAYING? ____________
    HOW MANY MONTH RENT ARE YOU WILLING TO PAY UPFRONT_________

    DO YOU HAVE PET _________
    KIND OF PETS: _____________

    HABITS
    DO YOU SMOKE ______________
    DO YOU DRINK ______________
    DO YOU WORK LATE NIGHT _________

    REFERENCE
    NAME_____________
    ADDRESS_____________

    Payment will be through walmart to walmart and the keys will be shipped to immediately payment has been confirmed.

    Once i receive the filled copy of the rental application form, I will make an arrangement on how to get the apartment keys and documents shipped to you through DHL courier service without any further delay.

    I await your swift response.
    My # (323)-510-7132

    Regards
    Pablo

    On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 8:38 PM, wrote:
    Hello Pablo,

    I’m a little confused, the address you gave me is for a house. But you mention an apartment?

    I am clean, have no pets…

    I’m looking to Stay 30 days and Possibly much longer if the location works out. I’m looking for a place ASAP

    Thanks

    Peter

    From: Angela Turner
    Sent: Friday, April 13, 2018 7:20 PMTo:
    Subject: Hello I’m Pablo

    Thanks for showing interest in my place.I’m Pablo. The apartment will be available for as long as you are willing to rent. my wife is disabled and I currently relocated back to our other house with my family in Virginia that’s why the apartment is vacant. Moreover, are you very clean,kind and easygoing? because my wife and I spent a lot on our property, so we want someone who can take care of the apartment,i am looking to rent this unit out,long and short term is allowed.

    1416 62ND St, Sacramento, CA 95819

    The room is Available for immediate move in. Its a Modern 1 bedroom & 1 bathroom and a large living room apartment, you will have access to the rest of the amenities in the apartment which includes dish washer with in-suite laundry room and plenty of storage space and parking space . Professional and mature neighbors ensure peaceful living arrangements.well behaved pets are allowed

    I will like you to drive by to the building today to view the exterior of the building for you to know where the apartment is located,i am not available to meet with you for viewing as i am out of the state,when you check out the exterior,kindly get back to me so that I can forward you the full interior pictures and application form then we can proceed to how the keys will be delivered to you…

    Thanks for taking your time in writing me and hope to hear back from you.
    Regards
    Pablo

  16. Melissa

    Hello,
    I think I Might be getting Scammed. The man who is supposedly renting his home told me to deposit the deposit into a wells fargo account which is his attorney account. We went to the house to look at it and it had a lock box he had me read the numbers on it to him and he sent me the code. I told him I want something in my hands before I give money. He said he will have his attorney draw up the contract before the deposit is made. Are Scammers able to find out lock box codes by the numbers on it? I need to move like ASAP I don’t know how to know if this is a scam or not. Any help?

  17. Jim H. White

    I almost fell for a scam from a guy who said he was Edward Joseph McGourty and gave me an address here in Ottawa ON Canada. I was warned through this article and found a phone number for the rental superintendent for the site and he was very helpful. No such person has ever lived there.

    The scammer has way too much information about me but at least I sent no money.

    1. José Quintero

      The same thing happened to me. Fortunately we sent no money to him.

  18. gaurav kalra

    Most recent one!!

    From:
    Date: Sat, Jun 30, 2018 at 4:02 PM
    Subject: Re: One Bedroom fully furnished condo

    Hello
    Thanks for the interest in my Apartment that was posted for rent,This Unit belong to me bought it some years back reason why the Apartment is up for Rent is because i have been transferred for work and i have no reason locking it up because am going to be here for a while, and i decided not to leave it in care of an agent because some of them are cunning and not straight forward and wont want anyone to mis-manage my property while am away…I had wanted to Put this up for sale until my wife disagree to that notion for the reason being we are still coming back to town thou it may be for awhile.I want someone that is Clean,Reliable,Respectable,doesn’t smoke nor do drugs,Honest and a Trustworthy person that would take very good care of the Unit for me…I work with the Missionary and have been doing that for awhile now and it has taken me to so many countries,Right now am in the United States of America been here for like a month or two came here with my wife,we are yet to have any children we have been together for 20 years…Enough of my Rambling i hope you will be able to take good care of this Unit if i decide to let it to you,get back to me on your past experience in Renting and also if you have any references..The rent fee is included and all the Utilities,there is parking lot and the apartment is ready right away for the right person..We can do month to month basis and also a long term lease..Looking forward hearing back from you ASAP so that i can forward you the RENTAL APPLICATION FORM to fill out so that we can iron out the details…Thanks once again for the interest and i look forward in letting this Unit out to you..
    Your Potential Landlord

  19. Frank Russell

    God! so glad that I came across this post. A friend of mine was looking for a rental apartment and I referred Craigslist to him just a few days ago. Will be sure to make him aware of these scams now. Thanks for the post!

  20. Alice

    I gave the “owner” my personal informations like address, name, phone no. and photo of Drivers License but when I talked him over the phone, I just realized his voice is kinda weird and he is not a missionary for sure.

    Subject: Re: Stunning 1 bedroom condo &Gas Range & Dishwasher, &Washer & Drye
    8

    Hello,

    Thanks for your email. I’m John Taylor, the owner of the Apartment you are renting. Actually I resided in the apartment with my family for some months and we moved away due to my transfer from my working place, my apartment is still available for rent for $800 per month including the utilities like washer and security, it is furnished. Right now I’m in West Africa for a crusade and I would like you to get in touch with my wife in the United states for more discussion as she is with the keys and the documents to the apartment. Please I want you to note that, I am a kind and honest man and also I spent a lot on my property, so I will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and I want you to treat it as your own. I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that I will be glad to see it neat when I come for a check up, I do that once in a while. I want to have trust in you as I always stand by my words. Let us know how soon you are willing to move in. Email my wife Marie { keyaptss501@gmail.com } and she will attend to you better.

    ADDRESS TO THE APARTMENT: 355 S Arroyo Dr,San Gabriel, CA 91776

    Thanks for your interest.
    John Taylor

    1. Mark Finster

      Hey Alice,

      We should chat. It’s very possible we were both conned by the same person (or group) in the LA housing market. I responded to a listing back in May (2018) for a below-market-value unit in Mar Vista, sent a rental App (which included by SSN and Employer Info) … and later wound up speaking to the individual over the phone. I realized pretty much immediately that it was a scam — and the person was using a fake accent, or just really didn’t speak english.

      A few weeks back, the Identity Theft hit (and it hit hard). Bank accounts, my USPS mailing address, tons of crap. It’s been terrible. I’ve been in contract with the LAPD + their financial crims dept. — and have a similar Gmail thread with the fraudulent listing owner. I’m convinced they’ve hit several people in the LA market.

      If you’d like to chat — let me know. Thanks!
      -Mark

      1. Alice

        Mark,

        I’m sorry to hear that….
        Fortunately I didn’t give them SSN but only the photo of Driver’s License.
        Hope there’s no way to use my infos… 🙁

        1. Meridith Bibbo

          I received the same John Taylor email and it seemed fishy so I googled, found this post, and am glad I haven’t filled anything out yet! Thanks!

    2. Jose

      Hi Alice,

      I encountered the same kind of scammer in the bay area, I didn’t have a chance to give them my info yet as I just responded to a craigslist ad.I knew it was fishy when in the response to my initial email the respondent did not include the original ad, which was taken down from craigslist. So it’s a good idea to periodically check the ad to see if it was taken down for being spam. The email went as follows:

      “Hello,

      Thanks for your email. I’m John Taylor, the owner of the Apartment you are renting. Actually I resided in the apartment with my family for some months and we moved away due to my transfer from my working place, my apartment is still available for rent for $815 per month including the utilities like washer and security, it is furnished. Right now I’m in Mississippi for construction work and I would like you to get in touch with my wife in the United states at the moment too, for more discussion as she is with the keys and the documents to the apartment. Please I want you to note that, I am a kind and honest man and also I spent a lot on my property, so I will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and I want you to treat it as your own. I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that I will be glad to see it neat when I come for a check up, I do that once in a while. I want to have trust in you as I always stand by my words. Let us know how soon you are willing to move in. Email my wife Marie { keyaptss501@gmail.com} and she will attend to you better.

      ADDRESS TO THE APARTMENT: 2004 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704

      Thanks for your interest.
      John Taylor”

      1. Tanya

        On the plus side, everyone, @ least he’s using the same name! In Washington, where I’ve reported several, unless you’ve actually been out $, you report it to a website affiliated w/ the FBI, so the FBI actually investigates it, which makes me feel like every scam, especially those that really lead you on, is worth reporting on that website. Not sure if it’s the same in Cali. But, regardless, I’m sure it’s easier to connect scams, & hopefully prosecute scammers, if the scammers use the same name(s). I hope your property hunts all ended successfully! We’re still looking. & still coming across a lot of scams, but being really proactive about avoiding them.

  21. GLORIA TORREZ

    After reading this article I know for sure I have been scam for my information. The email sent to me is very similar.

    We appreciate your interest and inquiries about our house…Am sorry for late response i was so busy with work i hope you understand..Yes the house is still available for rent and we are looking for a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the house now that we are out of town..We just moved to Ohio for a program called Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and I’m here with the house keys and documents..Before we left, i tried to look for an Agent/Management but i couldn’t get any in time..The program is taking place in three major countries in Switzerland, Singapore and the state we are right now in Ohio…We will be here for 5 to 6 years or more that is why I have made up my mind to put up my house for rent to whoever that will take good care of it…Let me start by introducing myself My name is Charles Brown,.I am hearing impaired and I must confess I am very new in this landlord business. However, I own the house located at (235 Coronado Ave APT 4, Long Beach, CA 90803 ), the initial plan was to sell the house but sometimes the Realtor inflates the price and it takes longer to sell,because of this reason we have decided to rent out the house to a responsible tenant in a affordable rent that can take very good care of the property as we are not after the money, we want it to be clean and tidy at all time. Pets are allowed as long as they are not destructive..

    Also how long do you intend to stay?

    How soon do you intend to move in?

    DETAILS ABOUT THE HOUSE

    Address:235 Coronado Ave APT 4, Long Beach, CA 90803
    Numbers of bedrooms: 1
    Number of bathrooms: 1
    Monthly Rent: $1,075
    Security Deposit: $600
    Total move in cost: $1,675
    Pet: Acceptable with no pet deposit in as much as they are not destructive
    Utilities are included in the rent.

    You can drive-by to view the outside and neighborhood of the house and get
    back to me asap and If you are really interested in renting my home then
    answer the rental application..I attached it along with the pics of the
    house. You can get back to me to my number (669) 209-6837

    Regards,
    Charles

    1. John

      My name is John.
      Very much the same situation in the Virginia beach area. Email follows:

      Hello,

      This is my private email…. My name is David Raymond, regarding the house for rent (721 N Great Neck Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23454)… Number of Bedrooms:3…Number of baths:2, Rent:$750…Refundable security Deposit:$550…Total move in :$1300, Pets are welcome!!!. I decided to rent the house because we are going to spend more time here in (Phoenix, AZ) . My family and I will be here for about 5 years due the nature of my job.

      I initially had it up for sale but had a change of mind in leasing it out ourselves because the agent that was in charge of our rental property was asking too much of an agent fee and also making it difficult for people who cannot afford the rent. Am willing to lease it out to person/family who is willing to assure us of taking absolute care of our home and pay their rent on time.

      Fill out the below so that my wife and i will take a proper look at your form.(You can call or text me on (937) 756-1566 after filling out rental questionnaire.).

      RENT APPLICATION FORM AND TELL US MORE ABOUT YOU

      1) Your Full Name ?

      2A) Home Phone ?

      2B) Cell Phone Number?

      3) Your Full Address ?
      04) How old are you ?

      5a) Are you married ?

      5b) How many people will be living in the house?

      6a) Do you have a pet?

      7a) Do you have a car?

      8) Occupation ?

      9) Do you smoke ?

      10) Do you Drink ?

      11) Do you work at Night ?

      12) What is your monthly income?

      13) When do you intend Moving in?

      14) private email ?

      15)How Many Months are you willing to rent?

      16) How many months rent can you pay upfront? Minimum ( 1month OR 2 months )

      17) When can you pay for your deposit to secure or move in ?

      18) Let me know the amount you have right now to pay?

      Please feel free to ask any questions you do not understand and I will be looking forward to receiving your email as soon as possible. As I am not in town to show the inside, you can go check out the house and the neighborhood from the outside and get back to me if you really like it for more information. Respond as soon as you can so we can get this process started.

      Looking forward to hearing back from you with all this details so that i can have them in my file in case of issuing your rent payment receipt to you and for contacting you.

      Regards and remain Bless.
      Mr & Mrs David and Family.

      Then he asked me to wire money to his wife
      Saundra Kaye Torres in Las Vegas Nevada and then I would get the keys In the mail by fed ex

      1. Holly

        I got this same email for a different property in Norfolk, almost word for word, but from a David Maxwell!!!!!!

      2. Shannon

        This literally just happened to me today. I would not send money without picture of title or mortgage statement in his name. After he wouldn’t send, THEN I started looking online. 🙁 Chandler, AZ

  22. Katrina Stettler

    One of the emails I receieved. I knew about this scam before hand and googled the address. The home is for sale and I have already contacted a realitor. This is a similar format to 2 other homes I am intrested in.

    Good Morning,

    I hope this finds you happy, healthy and well today. I personally own the house, I want my property to be well taken good care of, and there are some rules and regulation in which I do give out to tenant willing to rent my house so please don’t disrespect my order, But if you are still capable of renting my house the rules and regulation goes this way, You must keep my house clean including the surrounding, you must know the way in which you use the stove so as to avoid fire outbreak, you must not disturb the neighbor. I decided to rent out the property due to my transfer to ( Cincinnati, OH ), with (WHO) World Health Organization(WHO)… WHO is the directing and coordinating authority for health within the United Nations system. It is responsible for providing leadership on global health matters, shaping the health research agenda, setting norms and standards, articulating evidence-based policy options, providing technical support to countries and monitoring and assessing health trends. Don’t be a surprise if you find the home with another site and deference price, I have the plan to rent it through Real estate before, but they are not serious simply because they have a lot of house to lease out And they added some money to the rent while their commission is not fair.

    Have this in mind you must know the kind of person that I’m nevertheless I am giving you this rules because of what corresponded between me and my last tenant. the keys and documents are with us here in ( Cincinnati, OH ). So I will need to ship them to you before you can occupy the house But you can drive by the house any time to take a look at the area and surrounding, You can also peek through the windows if you don’t mind. For now, we are looking for 3 or 4 years lease or rather lets us know how long you wish to stay. All included in the monthly rent, as I am in a governmental programmer that sponsors my utilities on a monthly basis etc. Please note that we are a kind and honest family, that spent a lot on property that is available for rent, so in one accord, we are soliciting for your absolute maintenance of this house and want you to treat it as your own. We want you to keep it tidy all the time so that we shall be glad to see it whenever we are around on a visit.

    Home Address: 703 Saint Anne Ave, Christmas, FL 32709

    Rent: $700
    Refundable security Deposit:$700
    Total move in $1400

    Pets are welcome!!!
    All Utilities are included in the rent
    Dishwasher, Dryer, Electric Stove
    Fridge, Washer, Air Condition
    Sewage, Trash

    Text or call 775-468-3473
    RENT APPLICATION
    ——————————————————-
    1)Your Full Name______________________________
    2)Your Full Address & Phone Number______________________________
    3)Marital Status?___________________________________________
    4)How many people will be living in the house_________________________
    5)Do you have a pet______________________________
    6)Do you have a car______________________________
    7)Occupation______________________________
    8)When will you like to move in?_____________________________
    9)How long are you willing to stay in the property________________
    10)Picture of the occupant If Available____________________________
    11)When are you ready to Move In?________________
    12)How Many Months are you willing to rent?________________
    13) How many months rent can you pay upfront? Minimum ( 1month +
    SECURITY DEPOSIT ) or ( 2 months + SECURITY DEPOSIT ), so which option
    do you prefer ??? ________________
    14)EARLIEST POSSIBLE DATE OF DEPOSIT PAYMENT:______

    Looking forward to hearing back from you with all these details so that I can have them in my file in case of issuing your rent payment receipt to you and for contacting you. Your quick response will be highly appreciated so that we can discuss how to get the documents and the keys of my property to you via Express Delivery Services.

    May GOD bless you and your family.
    Yours Sincerely.

    1. Javonni Irin

      Crazy mine is similar (Thanks for getting back to me regarding my house,It gives me great joy to know that you are interested in my lovely house,I am Rev. Sean Mcclelland, the owner of the house you are making inquiry of. Presently my house is still available for rent and ready for immediately occupancy for just $1200 (rent already includes utilities).. I am sure you would be asking yourself why my rent is low, that’s because I am not too keen about the amount in renting the place out but to whom I am renting the house out to take great care of it and I have put the house up for sale before now but had to change my mind as my wife is not OK with us selling the house so my intention is to rent my house to someone that is responsible and be ready to take great care of the house as if it were his or her own, that is why the rent is low. and I plan to rent it through Real estate, but they are not serious simply because they have a lot of property to lease out and they also put our house in a higher rate while there commission is not fair. I am very certain that you would love the comfy of the house. The house is available for 3 years for now but you can live there to the period of time you wish and you can also move out as long as you can, you just need to inform me a month before you live so that I can look for another tenant like you do.

      I would like you to know that I am giving this house out for rent because I have been transferred to EAST AFRICA on a Missionary Work by my church. My wife came here to join me with my kids after some months I was transfer because My Father is ill and my brother’s have take him to Argentina for surgery. and if not because of this, I wouldn’t have been renting the house out because me and my family resides in the house and we love it so much. I would like you to complete the tenant application form below and please be honest with the details to enable us choose the right tenant. I can be reach here and you can call or text anytime (970)984-8602.

      This is the address of the house (5160 Nestle Ave,Tarzana, CA 91356)

      It has a dramatic entry foyer with ceramic floor. Extremely spacious rooms throughout. Nice and light! Very quiet, low traffic area. I believe its absolutely a perfect place for you and your family. Utilities include Electric, Water, Trash,Sewer, Gas Etc….

      Number of Bedrooms: 3
      Number of Bathrooms:3

      2,000 sqft

      Pets are welcome!!!

      SO COMPLETE THE TENANT RENTAL APPLICATION FORM BELOW IF YOU REALLY INTERESTED IN RENTING:)

      1. Javonni Irin

        This was before he ask me to money Gram him 2200 deposit before receiving paperwork or keys

        (Thanks for getting back to me regarding my house,It gives me great joy to know that you are interested in my lovely house,I am Rev. Sean Mcclelland, the owner of the house you are making inquiry of. Presently my house is still available for rent and ready for immediately occupancy for just $1200 (rent already includes utilities).. I am sure you would be asking yourself why my rent is low, that’s because I am not too keen about the amount in renting the place out but to whom I am renting the house out to take great care of it and I have put the house up for sale before now but had to change my mind as my wife is not OK with us selling the house so my intention is to rent my house to someone that is responsible and be ready to take great care of the house as if it were his or her own, that is why the rent is low. and I plan to rent it through Real estate, but they are not serious simply because they have a lot of property to lease out and they also put our house in a higher rate while there commission is not fair. I am very certain that you would love the comfy of the house. The house is available for 3 years for now but you can live there to the period of time you wish and you can also move out as long as you can, you just need to inform me a month before you live so that I can look for another tenant like you do.

        I would like you to know that I am giving this house out for rent because I have been transferred to EAST AFRICA on a Missionary Work by my church. My wife came here to join me with my kids after some months I was transfer because My Father is ill and my brother’s have take him to Argentina for surgery. and if not because of this, I wouldn’t have been renting the house out because me and my family resides in the house and we love it so much. I would like you to complete the tenant application form below and please be honest with the details to enable us choose the right tenant. I can be reach here and you can call or text anytime (970)984-8602.

        This is the address of the house (5160 Nestle Ave,Tarzana, CA 91356)

        It has a dramatic entry foyer with ceramic floor. Extremely spacious rooms throughout. Nice and light! Very quiet, low traffic area. I believe its absolutely a perfect place for you and your family. Utilities include Electric, Water, Trash,Sewer, Gas Etc….

        Number of Bedrooms: 3
        Number of Bathrooms:3

        2,000 sqft

        Pets are welcome!!!

        SO COMPLETE THE TENANT RENTAL APPLICATION FORM BELOW IF YOU REALLY INTERESTED IN RENTING:))

    2. Amber

      I got this email today. The rent price is too good to be true, so I googled rent scam in my area and I found this article.
      Thank you so much for the info. So glad I found it before giving out my personal info.

      This is in Virginia Beach, VA.

      APPLICATION FORM

      1.) Your full Name?______________________________
      2.) Your full address & mobile number / home #?______________________________
      3.) Marital Status / DOB?___________________________________________
      4.) How many people will be living in the house and Names of people moving in with you?
      _________________________
      5.) Length of previous tenancy and occupation of each person move in with you?
      ______________________________
      6.) Do you have a car / Do you have a pet? Please describe Breed, size______________________________
      7.) Are you a section 8 applicant?__________________
      8.) Do you run a business from home, If so what kind of business?___________________
      9.) How often do you do your current house cleaning?___________________
      10.) When will you like to move in?_____________________________
      11.) How long are you willing to stay in the property?________________
      12.) When are you ready to Move In, please write exact move in date?________________
      13.) How many months rent can you pay upfront? Minimum ( 1 month +
      SECURITY DEPOSIT ) or ( 2 months + SECURITY DEPOSIT ), so which option
      do you prefer ??________________
      14.) Earliest possible date of deposit?_____________
      15.) Can we trust you and our house safe keeping in your hand?_______________________
      16.) If you are ask to make a down payment to secure the house today and take it off market, How much will you be able to pay:__________?
      17.) Do you work late night and do you smoke and drink? (We just wanna know don’t get it twisted) no hard feelings.
      18.) REFERENCE?__________________Scan a copy of your passport and Driver License
      =================
      19.) Applicant Comment:
      =================

      Looking forward to hear from you and Please have this in mind that you are talking to a very nice and God fearing family, if you find any of our question inconvenience please don’t be offended but answer it because we want and like to know the kind of family that will be living in our house from day one so nothing from them will be strange to us again.

      thank you

    3. Valerie

      I must have emails from the same crook, as the numbers are exactly the same. They’re getting slick, finding an address and matching the actual property owners name to that address. I smelled something fishy by the 2nd email, and the second “they” put a telephone number on one of the emails I Google searched that too because the number was weird and did not match any area code here for someone who may have lived here as long as he claimed. What’s funny is all I Google as the number they gave me to call or text, and in my search I noticed the exact same words from the last email he sent, with the same improper grammar. This is the “rental application” sent to me:
      ___________________________________
      Thanks for your response. I will look forward to working with you and I hope you become the right tenant for us as we need responsible people to take good care of the house. We also need serious applicants so we can move forward with the rental process.

      I WILL WANT YOU TO FILL THE RENT APPLICATION FORM BELOW:

      RENT APPLICATION FORM.

      Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : __________?

      Phone # : __________?

      E-mail : __________?

      Best time to call : __________?

      How many proposed occupants : __________?

      List of all occupants with approximate age : __________?

      Present Address : __________?

      City/State : __________?

      Will you have pets : __________?

      Please describe breed, size : __________?

      Personality of pet : __________?

      Preferred move in date : __________?

      Intended length of lease: __________?

      How much deposit can you put down today to secure the home for yourself: __________?

      Length of previous tenancy : __________?

      Present occupation : __________?

      Do you run a business from home : __________?

      If so what kind of business : __________?

      Do you work late night : __________?

      Do you smoke : __________?

      Do you drink : __________?

      CALL OR TEXT ME ON THIS NUMBER (775) 468-3473

      Please feel free to ask any questions you do not understand and I will be looking forward to receiving your email as soon as possible. As I am not around to show the inside, you can go check out the house and the neighborhood from the outside and get back to me
      ___________________________________

      1. Yasmeenah

        Did you call the person? If so what accent do they have? I have the same email for a property in WA.

    4. Kristen Hair

      Got the exact same.email for a property in Pennsylvania. Looked up the property on several sites and it wasn’t even on the market

  23. Kati

    Hey guys,

    Coming from New England here in the expensive, tax-ridden state of Massachusetts! My spouse and I actually had two craigslist scammers contact us in the same pity-party/sob story that seems to be popular amongst many of us here (one was actually this morning). One scammer claimed to work for a Catholic ministry in a different state, and the other a Christian who was working with this benign Christian organization we’ve never heard about — we are Christians ourselves and typically know what organizations there are out there. I contacted the Catholic one (didn’t bother with the Christian since I knew it was weird anyways) and told the scammer. Next thing I know, the posting was removed. Just this past morning, I told the “Christian” scammer I was flagging him — then gave some appropriate two cents of my own… in the Christian way, of course lol Immediately, the posting was removed. Both scammers, however, requested my regular email address and would not send any information if they did not have my email. But, they obviously had my email since I used it to reply to them…? That was off-putting. I figured they wanted an alternate email just so they would not be tracked with their craigslist email if they got caught. Then they got back to me with an email from another server… figures.

    What astounds me is the fact they use the same type of pattern to try and lure you and from many different locations, it seems — I mean, good for us. But it is unfortunate that it can be so easily dismissed by many.

    Just wanted to chime in and share!

    Kati

  24. Mercedes J Sichon

    Hi all,

    I’ve seen replies that say that they have been victims and some have been warned not to do anything. I, for one, has become a recent victim and I am worried that they are going to use my personal information (as well as my mother’s/sisters’) to do whatever they want.

    What are the next steps other than getting identity theft protection and informing Craigslist that this particular ad is a scam? Do I inform my local police dept., my credit reporting agencies (or is this communication only after I’ve been hacked?), etc.?

    Please advise on how to move forward from here is greatly appreciated.

    Mercedes

  25. chris

    Got this, and i figured it was too good to be true. They keep hitting me up every day asking if im still interested.

    “Hello,

    This beautiful home is still available for rent and ready to move in 260 Clearwood Ave, Riverside, CA 92506 4 beds 2 baths 2,037 sqft rent $1700 security deposit $1500 pets allowed.

    You need to drive by the home,sorry just moved closer to wife due she was diagnose calvical cancer in Los Angeles,CA you can go by to view the house and and get back to me, am at the hospital right, she is battling cancer, pls say prayers for her.All appliances are included

    How many adults,kids and pets will be moving in? how long do you plan living in the house? i don’t want moving in and moving out, i want long term stay a least start
    with 1 year lease with an option to renew it.

    This home located in safe and quiet area good to raise the kids,do you have good credit,rental history,pay-stub and reference?i do have the keys her with me, if
    everything work out for both of us i can overnight the keys and papers to you.

    Norma L Platt “

    1. Walter

      Wow, I can’t believe human beings would go that low to scam someone. I got almost exactly the same e-mai almost two years after you did:

      “I just moved closer to wife because she’s diagnose with cancer. I’m at the hospital right now, she is battling with cancer, please say prayers for her. You can take a drive by today to see the outside of the house so you can get a better view of the house and also see what the neighborhood is like because am not available to walk you through the house. If you are still interested in my house after driving by, you can go ahead and fill out the Rental Application Form below and to continue with my rental process. Pets are welcome!

      Stay blessed
      John Jo Marino”

  26. Javonni Irin

    Crazy how similar they are this email was sent as a reply to property I inquired about on Craigslist ….
    ((Thanks for getting back to me regarding my house,It gives me great joy to know that you are interested in my lovely house,I am Rev. Sean Mcclelland, the owner of the house you are making inquiry of. Presently my house is still available for rent and ready for immediately occupancy for just $1200 (rent already includes utilities).. I am sure you would be asking yourself why my rent is low, that’s because I am not too keen about the amount in renting the place out but to whom I am renting the house out to take great care of it and I have put the house up for sale before now but had to change my mind as my wife is not OK with us selling the house so my intention is to rent my house to someone that is responsible and be ready to take great care of the house as if it were his or her own, that is why the rent is low. and I plan to rent it through Real estate, but they are not serious simply because they have a lot of property to lease out and they also put our house in a higher rate while there commission is not fair. I am very certain that you would love the comfy of the house. The house is available for 3 years for now but you can live there to the period of time you wish and you can also move out as long as you can, you just need to inform me a month before you live so that I can look for another tenant like you do.

    I would like you to know that I am giving this house out for rent because I have been transferred to EAST AFRICA on a Missionary Work by my church. My wife came here to join me with my kids after some months I was transfer because My Father is ill and my brother’s have take him to Argentina for surgery. and if not because of this, I wouldn’t have been renting the house out because me and my family resides in the house and we love it so much. I would like you to complete the tenant application form below and please be honest with the details to enable us choose the right tenant. I can be reach here and you can call or text anytime (970)984-8602.

    This is the address of the house (5160 Nestle Ave,Tarzana, CA 91356)

    It has a dramatic entry foyer with ceramic floor. Extremely spacious rooms throughout. Nice and light! Very quiet, low traffic area. I believe its absolutely a perfect place for you and your family. Utilities include Electric, Water, Trash,Sewer, Gas Etc….

    Number of Bedrooms: 3
    Number of Bathrooms:3

    2,000 sqft

    Pets are welcome!!!

    SO COMPLETE THE TENANT RENTAL APPLICATION FORM BELOW IF YOU REALLY INTERESTED IN RENTING:))

    Then I was asked for a $2200 deposit by MoneyGram to send to Kenya before I see the property or get the keys

  27. John Czech

    Yikes. I knew as soon as I got a similar email here in Orlando that it was a scam.

    Thanks for your response. I will look forward to working with you and i hope you become the right tenant for us as we need responsible people to take good care of the house. We also need serious applicants so we can move forward with the rental process.

    I WILL WANT YOU TO FILL THE RENT APPLICATION FORM BELOW:
    RENT APPLICATION FORM.

    Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : __________?
    Phone # : __________?
    E-mail : __________?
    Best time to call : __________?
    How many proposed occupants : __________?
    List of all occupants with approximate age : __________?
    Present Address : __________?
    City/State : __________?
    Will you have pets : __________?
    Please describe breed, size : __________?
    Personality of pet : __________?
    Preferred move in date : __________?
    Intended length of lease: __________?
    How much deposit can you put down today to secure the home for yourself : __________?
    Length of previous tenancy : __________?
    Present occupation : __________?
    Do you run a business from home : __________?
    If so what kind of business : __________?
    Do you work late night : __________?
    Do you smoke : __________?
    Do you drink : __________?

    Please feel free to ask any questions you do not understand and I will be looking forward to receive your email as soon as possible. As I am not around to show the inside, you can go check out the house and the neighborhood from the outside and get back to me if you really like it for more information. Respond as soon as you can so we can get this process started.

    You can text or call me anytime for more inquiries on 203-701-9467

    Regards and remain blessed.

    1. Shanice

      I got this exact same message today. Do Not Trust!!

  28. D.B.T.

    Another thing that’s a giveaway to a scam rental posting is if there are any photos showing a realtor watermark or logo in corner. These are photos posted on the realtor sites (MLS) and are marked by the realtor board that belong to. It’s illegal to use these photos anywhere other than the MLS with this marked. If it’s a realtor listing on Craigslist you’ll see their license number and can verify it first with the local real estate board.

    Below is a response email I received~and the ad had one pic with the watermark on it. I didn’t notice the watermark until I went back and looked at it after reviewing this letter. As you can see there is strange phrasing regarding dirt and in other areas of this response. Unusual “Off” grammar and phrasing another telltale indicator.

    Finally- I had answered some of these questions in my first inquiry to the ad which also tells me they aren’t really reading the inquiry and just after personal info.

    EMAIL:
    Hello there,

    Thanks for your interest in our lovely home, we want responsible adults/family who are neat and also have what it takes to take care of our house as if it were theirs.. We will be very pleased if we have the opportunity in showing you around my house, The home is currently in move in ready condition.

    Property Information:

    Single Family Residential House
    419 East Francis Dr
    Palm Springs, CA 92262

    The monthly rent is $1650 and the refundable security deposit is $1650. Pets are allowed and utilities (water,sewer, and trash only) are also included in the rent. Pets are also allowed in the home as long as they are home broken and their shots received regularly too.

    I will be very happy to find the right tenant for my home, a person who does not tolerate anything that has to do with dirt. I would love to learn more information about you, your renting experience and how long you intend to rent our home, date would you want to move in if everything goes well.

    Do let me know if I should email the rental application form for you via email to fill for review and approval if you qualify as a potential our tenant for our home.

    I look forward to hearing from you soon.
    Best Regards,
    Johan D & Family

  29. Andrea Garcia

    Just received this email that i inquired about 3 days ago.. Good thing i did my research!

    Hello Dear,

    Thanks for your interest and inquiries about my apartment. Yes the apartment is still available for rent and we are looking for a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the apartment now that i am not around. i just traveled to Crason city NV for a program called SERVING IN MISSION (SIM),you can view the link for more info: (link redacted). i will be away for 3 to 5 years or more that is why I have made up my mind to put up my apartment for rent to whom ever that will take good care of it. However, my initial plan was to sell my apartment but it was not successful because the Realtor raised the price which made it difficult for me to sell before leaving , It has already been taken off the market as for sale so there is no need to contact any Realtor. My wife advice’s we take the rent low due to the fact we seek responsible occupant and we are not after the money but a proper maintenance of my property . I want you to understand that I spent a lot on my property that you have requested to rent, so I will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and would want you to treat it as your own because cleanliness they say is next to Godliness. It is not all about the money to be paid on rent or spent; it is all about a good maintenance culture which I want you to adopt on the property. I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that I would be full of smiles whenever I come and above all, a good, strong and tight relationship between us when I come for a check up. Please one more thing, I wouldn’t like to have any benefit of trust in you because I want to stand in your words that the property would be well taken care of all the time. I believe you have seen how lovely it is if from only the pictures you saw in my posting compare to the 100% comfort to be derived from it as you are an occupant.
    FEATURES : Laundry, Electric Range, Electric Heat,Car park.
    AMENITIES: Air Conditioning, Deck, Cable TV, Ceiling Fans, 24 hours Internet service,Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Microwave, security alarm, Pets Friendly, Refrigerator,Washer / Dryer.
    Rental Price: $750 per month and security Deposit is $450 (Security Deposit is Refundable) Utilities included in monthly rent.

    Here is the address to the:14082 Edwards St #202Westminster, CA 92683, USA

    Bedroom:2
    Bathroom:2
    I may not be returning to the apartment because we plan buying another apartment upon arrival. For more inquiries.

    SO IF YOU ARE REALLY INTERESTED I WILL WANT YOU TO FILL THE RENT APPLICATION FORM BELOW:

    RENT APPLICATION FORM.
    Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : __________?
    Phone numbers (home,cell and office line ) # :__________?
    E-mail :__________?
    Best time to call :__________?
    Marital Status:__________?
    How many proposed occupants :__________?
    List all in addition to yourself including approx age :__________?
    Present Address :__________?
    City/State :__________?
    Will you have pets :__________?
    Please describe Breed, size :__________?
    Personality of pet :__________?
    Preferred move in date :__________?
    Intended length of lease:__________?
    Do you agree to pay the payment before you move in:__________?
    Earliest possible date of deposit payment:__________?
    Length of previous tenancy :__________?
    Present occupation :__________?
    Do you work late night :__________?
    Do you smoke :__________?
    Do you drink :__________?

    Looking forward to hearing back from you with all this details so that i can have them in my file in case of issuing your rent payment receipt to you and for contacting you. Your quick response will be highly appreciated so that we can discuss on how to get the documents and the keys of my property to you via Express Delivery Services and You may drive by to view the building and its living environment. May GOD bless you and your family.Thanks

    1. T

      I received the same email, just wondering if the email is also the same.. does it end in 65@hotmail?

    2. Marjory

      The same happen to my someone named Mac Lester with the same form in Fullerton, CA. I actually talked to the guy and he had a heavy accent and he wanted me to wire him the money without even seeing the place horrible.

    3. Laura

      I got the same email from a Ronald Webber about a listing doubt hell get back to me since my husband is the one to answer some questions. Wish I read this sooner

  30. Diana

    (970)984-8602 this is the number they are calling from

  31. Jess

    This is what I received. We even went and looked at the house. Finally looked it up and it was listed for a much higher price.

    Thanks for your interest in my house. My house is still available for rent and is located at 116 Kendale St,Bowling Green, KY 42103 quite and safe, I’m looking for a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the house now that i am not around. I just traveled to London for a program called SERVING IN MISSION (SIM), you can view the link for more info: (link redacted).

    I will be away for two years or more that is why I have made up my mind to put up my house for rent to whom ever that will take good care of it. However, my initial plan was to sell the house but it was not successful because the Realtor raised the price which made it difficult for me to sell before leaving . So you ignore the sign post cause i have stop dealing and contacting the Realtor for too much fees i paid and the Realtor was trying to rip me off. You can drive by and check the the house and neighborhood and get back to me for further discussions because i need a tenant urgently and i can also forward the application form to you, if you are interested.

  32. alsion maduek

    Nuno Gonzaléz
    9:53 PM (13 minutes ago)
    to me

    Hello,

    Thank you reply to the advert placed, I’m happy to inform you that the place is still available

    for rent and you are the first person to contact me about it. I really need to know how soon you

    want to move in and number of people. I’m on a missionary transfer to CA to serve God and

    humanity. I work with SOS Children’s Village here in CA, I have no choice than to relocate and

    this is the reason why I want to rent out the units to someone who is going to take care of the

    place as if they own it. The apartment is available for short and long time term lease is also

    accepted.

    The rent includes all utilities and close to all amenities. I was advised to rent out the place

    because there is no one leaving there right now. The place is available for immediate move in.

    INCLUDED IN THE RENT: Cable , Kitchen completely equipped, Kettle – Toaster – Dishwasher –

    Freezer – Microwave – Oven – Dryer – Heat – Water – Washing Machine and Electric.

    I want you to provide the following information to fill the rent application form and other

    documents, such as; rental agreement, rent receipts etc.

    RENTAL APPLICATION FORM

    Full name:
    Profession:
    Present Address of the applicants:
    Zip code:
    Reasons for Leaving:
    How long do you intend staying:
    Do you drink:
    Ph Cell & Home:
    Email:
    Single Or Married:
    Children:
    Pet: If any ():
    Date of Tenancy:

    I ………………………… ……………..CERTIFY that answers given herein are true and

    complete to the best of my knowledge. I authorize investigation of all statements contained in

    this application for tenant screening as may be necessary in arriving at a tenant decision. I

    understand that the landlord may terminate any rental agreement entered into for any

    misrepresentation made above.

    I want you to make sure the present address is not mistaken because that’s where the keys and

    documents will be ship to. The contents of the shipment you will be expecting are:

    1. Bunch of keys to the property.

    2. Documents containing the lease agreement and property description , including the property

    address.

    3. Rent receipts and damage deposit receipts.

    I want you to email me once you fill the rent application form, the shipment of the package

    containing the keys and other documents will be ship by secure courier service once the deposit

    payment is paid.

    I HAVENT EVEN SEEN THE APARTMENT you already sent forms.

  33. Nicole

    I saw this post on craigslist this morning and couldn’t believe the apartment was cheap. He immediately replied. I had to look up the phone number to see if this was real and this page came up.

    Too good to be true.

    Thanks for getting back to me regarding my house, It gives me great joy to know that you are interested in my lovely house, I am Rev. Kevin Khabeer Manny the owner of the house you are making inquiry of. Presently my house is still available for rent and ready for immediately occupancy for just $1300 (rent already includes utilities).. I am sure you would be asking yourself why my rent is low, that’s because I am not too keen about the amount in renting the place out but to whom I am renting the house out to take great care of it and I have put the house up for sale before now but had to change my mind as my wife is not OK with us selling the house so my intention is to rent my house to someone that is responsible and be ready to take great care of the house as if it were his or her own, that is why the rent is low. and I plan to rent it through Real estate, but they are not serious simply because they have a lot of property to lease out and they also put our house in a higher rate while there commission is not fair. I am very certain that you would love the comfy of the house. The house is available for 3 years for now but you can live there to the period of time you wish and you can also move out as long as you can, you just need to inform me a month before you live so that I can look for another tenant like you do.

    I would like you to know that I am giving this house out for rent because I have been transferred to EAST AFRICA on a Missionary Work by my church. My wife came here to join me with my kids after some months I was transfer because My Father is ill and my brother’s have take him to Argentina for surgery. and if not because of this, I wouldn’t have been renting the house out because me and my family resides in the house and we love it so much. I would like you to complete the tenant application form below and please be honest with the details to enable us choose the right tenant. I can be reach here and you can call or text anytime (970)984-8602.

    This is the address of the house (222 Lime St, Inglewood, CA 90301)

    It has a dramatic entry foyer with ceramic floor. Extremely spacious rooms throughout. Nice and light! Very quiet, low traffic area. I believe its absolutely a perfect place for you and your family. Utilities include Electric, Water, Trash, Sewer, Gas Etc….

    Number of Bedrooms: 3
    Number of Bathrooms:2.5

    1,450 sqft

    Pets are welcome!!!

    SO COMPLETE THE TENANT RENTAL APPLICATION FORM BELOW IF YOU REALLY INTERESTED IN RENTING:

    1)Your Full Name______________________________
    2)Your Full Address & Phone Number______________________________
    3)Are you married?_________________________
    4)How many people will be living in the house______________________________
    5)Do you have a pet______________________________
    6)Do you have a car______________________________
    7)Occupation______________________________
    8)When will you like to move in?_____________________________
    9)How long are you willing to stay in the property________________
    10)Picture of the occupant If Available____________________________
    11)When are you ready to Move In?________________
    12)How Many Months are you willing to rent?________________
    13) How Soon Do You Have The Deposit?_____________

    The Landlord is authorized to use the information provided herein to conduct any and all investigations as deemed prudent by the Landlord. A Deposit of $1300 (which happens to be the security deposit) is required before moving in. You can drive by the house anytime to see the surroundings and the area since I am not in the around then we discuss on how to FedEx the keys paper work to you.

    Looking forward to hear from you with all this details so we can proceed further. You can call or text me for more information on the rental (970)984-8602.

    I hope to hear from you soonest. God Bless You,

    Rev. Kevin Khabeer Manny.

    “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil….”Proverbs 3: 5-7.

  34. Mary

    Thanks for your response. I will look forward to working with you and i hope you become the right tenant for us as we need responsible people to take good care of the house. We also need serious applicants so we can move forward with the rental process.

    I WILL WANT YOU TO FILL THE RENT APPLICATION FORM BELOW:
    RENT APPLICATION FORM.

    Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : __________?
    Phone # : __________?
    E-mail : __________?
    Best time to call : __________?
    How many proposed occupants : __________?
    List of all occupants with approximate age : __________?
    Present Address : __________?
    City/State : __________?
    Will you have pets : __________?
    Please describe breed, size : __________?
    Personality of pet : __________?
    Preferred move in date : __________?
    Intended length of lease: __________?
    How much deposit can you put down today to secure the home for yourself : __________?
    Length of previous tenancy : __________?
    Present occupation : __________?
    Do you run a business from home : __________?
    If so what kind of business : __________?
    Do you work late night : __________?
    Do you smoke : __________?

    Please feel free to ask any questions you do not understand and I will be looking forward to receive your email as soon as possible. As I am not around to show the inside, you can go check out the house and the neighborhood from the outside and get back to me if you really like it for more information. Respond as soon as you can so we can get this process started.

    You can text or call me anytime for more inquiries on 203-701-9467

    Regards and remain blessed.

    Subject: Re: Split Bedroom Floor Plan, Covered & Uncovered Back Deck++Storage Shed

    On Mon, Oct 15, 2018 at 4:49 AM F X wrote:

    Thanks for your interest and inquiries about my house. The house is still available for rent and we are looking for a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the house. Myself and my family just traveled to MISSOURI with Experience Mission. We will be away for about 4 years. The house is available for rent for short term and long term as we will be moving to our family house when we get back. I was unable to find a tenant before I traveled which is why I posted an ad online. My initial plan was to sell the house but it was not successful because the Realtor raised the price which made it difficult for me to sell so never mind if you see the for realtor sign in front of the house, it has already been taken off the market for sale so you will be dealing with me directly. How long do you intend to stay and how soon do you intend to move in?

    Rental price: $700 per month and security deposit is $700 (security deposit is refundable).

    Pets are Welcome.

    Below is the address to the house : 8307 Dulcet Dr, Austin, TX 78745

    Get back to me so I can forward you the rent questionnaire I would want you to fill out.

    Regards and remain blessed.

  35. Randal

    For Toronto, ON, 3 messages:
    Hello ,

    Thanks for your email I am Engineer Ray Stevenson the owner of the property you are making inquiry of the rental is fully furnished with all necessary amenities situated in a very nice and safe area ,close to EVERYTHING , easy access to public transportation. Great Restaurants, Bars, Pubs and shopping within walking distance. It comes with parking spot and a Storage unit where you can put my furniture ( IF you don’t like it and you want use your furniture) PETS are welcome also you can rent ( FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED ). All utility bills are included in the rent and my place is available for a SHORT or LONG TERM rental period I am a kind and honest man and also I spent a lot on my property I will solicit for your absolute maintenance I used to reside there before not until I left for CAMBODIA for a construction job with Total/Elf ( I’m a Construction Engineer ) I want a tenant I can trust do tell me more about yourself me and my family are staying here for about 5 yrs with no plan of returning back that is why I have made up my mind to put up all my property for rent the place is vacant and ready for move in now.

    ===========FILL THE RENT APPLICATION =============

    1)Full Name(s):

    2)Present Address(Current residence):

    3)Direct contact phone number(home and cell):

    4)Age:

    5)Marital Status:

    6)How many people will be living in the flat:

    7)Do you have a pet ?:

    8)Do you have a car? If yes, how many? :

    9)Occupation:

    10)Citizen of Which Country?

    11)How long do you intend to stay?:

    12)When are you ready to Move In? Exact Date? :

    13) How many months rent can you pay upfront? Minimum ( first and last month rent ) or ( Pay 3 months rent + & you get (1) month free ) which option do you prefer ?

    Thanks for taking your time in writing me and hope to hear back from you.
    Regards,
    Ray Stevenson .
    ***********
    Hello ,

    I reviewed your Application Form its very satisfactory and acceptable .The next step is payment which is the option you choose in the application form after we get the required payment for move in the following documents below and keys would be mailed out to you via DHL Courier Service to your current address and the tracking number will be sent then you can occupy your new home , The package includes:

    1) Entrance and the rooms Keys
    2) Paper/Permanent House form
    3) The House documentary file
    4) Full Description of the House
    5) Payment Receipt

    RE-CONFIRM YOUR DELIVERY INFORMATION BELOW .

    FULL NAME :
    HOME ADDRESS:

    IMPORTANT NOTICE: I have had different situation with time waster whereby I secure the rental and when its time for payment they come up with different stories like reduce rent and so on .If you want me to secure rental until your move in date you have to pay the rent this week so I can be rest assured you aren’t a time waster the rental is situated in a very high demand area .Your monthly rent already covers all utility bills so you do not have to pay extra charges do reply back with your mailing address also should I forward Payment information.
    **************
    Hello ,

    I am glad to have you as my new tenant I am responsible for maintenance, internal and external my property is covered with housing insurance and coverage on any issues or concerns regarding electricity, plumbing e.t.c you just have to contact me via email and would be fixed within 24 hours, Once again get back if I should forward payment information also reply back with your delivery information below .

    FULL NAME
    MAILING ADDRESS

    I await your reply soon .

  36. Emily Rose

    Dudes yeah this:

    “Hello
    Thanks for your interest and inquiries about my house. Yes the house is still available for rent and we are looking for a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the house now that we are not around. Myself and my wife just traveled to Texas, Houston for a program called SERVING IN MISSION (SIM), you can view the link for more info: ( ). We will be away for 3 to 4 years or more that is why I have made up my mind to put up my house for rent to whom ever that will take good care of it. However, my initial plan was to sell the house but it was not successful because the Realtor raised the price which made it difficult for me to sell before leaving the States so never mind if you see the for sale sign in front of the house, It has already been taken off the market as for sale so there is no need to contact any Realtor.I want you to understand that I spent a lot on my property that you have requested to rent, so I will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this house and would want you to treat it as your own because cleanliness they say is next to Godliness. It is not all about the money to be paid on rent or spent; it is all about a good maintenance culture which I want you to adopt on the property. I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that I would be full of smiles whenever I come and above all, a good, strong and tight relationship between us when I come for a check up. Please one more thing, I wouldn’t like to have any benefit of trust in you because I want to stand in your words that the property would be well taken care of all the time. I believe you have seen how lovely it is if from only the pictures you saw in my posting compare to the 100% comfort to be derived from it as you are an occupant.”

    -Couldn’t view the apt. because he’s in Texas but said I could peek in the front windows. No photos included in add or email
    -Never included his name and wouldn’t give it to me over the phone, emailed me a picture of ‘him and his family’ with a name- lots of googling got me no where. ( Mr. Nadir Kouar. )
    -Unable to place accent and very difficult to understand over the phone,
    -Wants to receive cash payment through Money Gram before keys or lease received
    -Said he would Fedex the key and papers overnight to me
    -He was trying to move the process along very quickly.
    -Really laid on that he and his wife were people of God, they know the world is a scary place, but they would be trusting me with their home. First thing let me know he was a very good Christian
    -Sketchy application:

    SO IF YOU ARE REALLY INTERESTED I WILL WANT YOU TO FILL THE RENT APPLICATION FORM BELOW:

    RENT APPLICATION FORM.

    Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : __________?
    Phone numbers (home,cell and office line ) # :__________?
    E-mail :__________?
    Best time to call :__________?
    Marital Status:__________?
    A Picture of your self if possible______________________?
    How many proposed occupants :__________?
    List all in addition to yourself including approx age :__________?
    Present Address :__________?
    City/State :__________?
    Will you have pets :__________?
    Please describe Breed, size :__________?
    Personality of pet :__________?
    Preferred move in date :__________?
    Intended length of lease:__________?
    Do you agree to pay the payment before you move in:__________?
    Are you ready to make the payment today :__________?
    Earliest possible date of deposit payment:__________?
    Length of previous tenancy :__________?
    Present occupation :__________?
    Are you a section 8 applicant :__________?
    Do you work late at night :__________?
    Do you smoke :__________?
    Do you drink :_______?

    Craigslist Baltimore, 2212 Maryland Ave, is the advertised address. Owned by 2210-2212 Maryland Ave LLC, no other information on building owner or contact information to extra verify its a scam.

    I feel like an idiot for falling for it a little bit, ew enough.

    THANK YOU SO MUCH to everyone who posted their experiences as well.

    1. Lemon

      I got the same message from 2 owners.
      this is message….
      —————————————————–
      Thanks for your interest and inquiries about my apartment. Yes the apartment is still available for rent and we need a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the apartment since we are not going to be around for a while. we traveled to Utah, for a program called SERVING IN MISSION (SIM),you can view the link for more info: (). i will be away for 3 to 4 years or more that is why I have made up my mind to put up my apartment for rent to whom ever that will take good care of it. I believe you have seen how it is from only the pictures you saw on the site, compared to the 100% comfort to be derived from it as an occupant.
      FEATURES : Laundry, Electric Range, Electric Heat,Car park.
      AMENITIES: Air Conditioning, Deck, Cable TV, Ceiling Fans, 24 hours Internet service,Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Microwave, security alarm, Pets Friendly, Refrigerator,Washer / Dryer.
      Rental Price: $850 per month and security Deposit is $500 (Security Deposit is Refundable) Utilities included in monthly rent.

      Here is the address to the Home: 40 Sunol Street. APT # 4 San Jose, CA.
      Bedroom:1
      Bathroom:1
      I may not be returning to the apartment because we plan buying another House upon arrival. For more inquiries.

      SO IF YOU ARE REALLY INTERESTED I WILL WANT YOU TO FILL THE RENT APPLICATION FORM BELOW:

      RENT APPLICATION FORM.
      Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : __________?
      Phone numbers (home,cell and office line ) # :__________?
      E-mail :__________?
      Best time to call :__________?
      Marital Status:__________?
      How many proposed occupants :__________?
      List all in addition to yourself including approx age :__________?
      Present Address :__________?
      City/State :__________?
      Will you have pets :__________?
      Please describe Breed, size :__________?
      Personality of pet :__________?
      Preferred move in date :__________?
      Intended length of lease:__________?
      Do you agree to pay the payment before you move in:__________?
      Earliest possible date of deposit payment:__________?
      Length of previous tenancy :__________?
      Present occupation :__________?
      Do you work late night :__________?
      Do you smoke :__________?
      Do you drink :__________?

      Looking forward to hearing back from you with all this details so that i can have them in my file in case of issuing your rent payment receipt to you and for contacting you. Your quick response will be highly appreciated so that we can discuss on how to get the documents and the keys of my property to you via Express Delivery Services and You may drive by to view the building and its living environment. May God bless you and your family.
      ——————————–

  37. Vanessa Roman

    I guess I’m a lucky one, i saw the ad it said $1100 +$1500 sec dep. I even saw it since apt is really for rent,more on that, i got the code flag num 1# I asked if I got there before 9am could I go in the house he replied,by email,that it had to be from 9-10 hmmm,So i saw hse,liked the house and asked how we proceed,he then emails me an application to fill out,in the meantime I’m thinking this is going was to easy,no credit check no rental report, so I Google the address and it is for rent but by a big realty company and for $1510 and it specifically states on their Zillow listing they would never put there real estate on craigslist. I’ve contacted the realty company and they are going to contact property Management. Not sure what else to do. Should I contact the police since this man still thinks I want the house?

  38. Irne

    I was contacted by an Eric Lester . He has a house for rent in sandford Florida.it was all a scam here is the phone number he contacted me with and the email .. (707)893-7863 chase_home021 @ aol.com people please be careful. I was also contacted by a Mr. Davis with two different numbers (904)701-4730 and (754)666-0059 for a rental in casselberry he was upset because I told him I would give him a check or a money order only .. NOT cash for the amount of 1900 which has the first month rent and deposit. Shameless people and they even mention God name in their scams !!! I hope this information help other people so they don’t fall in scams like this . Good luck and be careful.

  39. Renée Harris

    My husband and I are running in a Jimmy Manly on Craigslist in the Asheville, NC area. These are the same emails he sent me sounding just like the ones above!

    Thanks for showing interest , the property is available for rent and move-in ASAP, due to my job factor am in TEXAS at the moment and am gonna be here for about 3 years or more my name is JIMMY MANLEY am the owner of the property located at 78 Brooklyn Rd Asheville, NC 28803 which as just been recently renovated, the neighborhood is lovely and am sure you gonna like it there, the property is about 1,413 sqft with 3beds,2baths,I wanted to sell it out but due to some factor about the realtor I was working with before I decided not to sell it again, the agents are not truthful about handling things and I am looking to handle things myself now the best way I can . Am looking for someone that will take care of the property as if it was there own, someone that will be very neat, take good care of the property for me and make payment of rent with no delay pet are allowed as long as they are not destructive the rent is $1,413 and security down-payment is $1000. Thanks will be looking forward for your reply.
    You can drive by the house anytime of the day if you wish to see the house for yourself. I am already in TX, you can go by and view the inside of the house through the window, if you like it, you get back to me so we can proceed with the rentals.. We need a responsible person that can take very good care of it as we are not after the money. Utilities include: power, water, washer/dryer, sewer except trash.. Your monthly rent already covers utilities so you do not have to pay extra charges for that. Pet are allowed as long as they are not destructive..like I explained to you before I am no more dealing with the realtor,the for sale sign is still there because I haven’t gotten a tenant yet so deal with me directly…

    1. Sarah Alexander

      We just ran into the same person/listing. Did it end up being a scam?

    2. Cierra

      I got one almost identical to this one!

  40. Renée Harris

    We also received a scam from a guy named Barry N Sardinas who supposedly lives in FL now with his family and wants to rent his home instead of selling it. This is the application he sent us….
    APPLICATION I received your inquiry about my property for rent at 35 Ora St Asheville, NC 28801. My name is Barry Sardinas. My family and I just moved down to Florida due to my job transfer, we will be here for 4 to 5 years. My initial plan was to sell the house but I find it difficult to let go this adorable home, I have decided to rent out to a responsible tenant who is willing to take very good care of it in our absence. Pets are allowed as long as they are not destructive. The rent is $1,100 and security deposit is $1,100 and total move-in cost is $2,200 the utilities are included in the monthly rent, as I am on a governmental program that sponsors my utilities on monthly basis. Please I want you to note that I spent a lot on my property that I want to give to you for rent, so I will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this house and want you to treat it as your own. We are offering this, because as good Christian we want to help in any way we can by making the house affordable, so if you do rent from us, please don’t let us down in keeping the house clean always because nothing will make us more happy than seeing our house properly kept clean when we come for check up. Feel free to contact me via email for further inquiries. You can drive-by to have a view of the surroundings and get back to me with the rental application filled out. General house description: Bedroom: 3 Bathroom: 2 below are some questions I need you to answer so we can discuss further. You can only drive by the property for now to check the outside and the neighborhood, it is available for a long and short term lease. RENT QUESTIONNAIRE APPLICANT Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname): __________? Phone numbers (home, cell and office line) #:__________? Marital Status: __________? How many proposed occupants: __________? List all in addition to yourself including approx age: __________? Driver’s License No: _________________?
    Driver’s License State of Issue: ______________? Will you have pets: __________? Please describe Breed, size: __________? Personality of pet: __________? When do you plan to move in, please write exact date? Intended length of lease: __________? Do you agree to pay the payment before you move in: __________? If you are asked to make a down payment to secure the house today and take it off market, How much will you be able to pay: __________? Length of previous tenancy: __________? Present occupation: __________? Are you a section 8 applicant: ________? Do you work late night: __________? Do you smoke: __________? Do you drink: ___________? RESIDENCE HISTORY Provide at least 1 year(s) of history Present Address (City, State, Zip code): __________? Duration of Residence from ________ / ______ to _______ / ________ Monthly Rent $ ____ Reason for Moving ____________________________________________________________ Check one: Own ____ Rent ______ Other (Specify) ________________________________ If Rent, Name of Landlord ________________________ Landlord Phone No: ______________
    EMPLOYMENT / FINANCIAL Current Employer: ______________________________ Phone: ________________________ How long with this employer? _______________ Supervisor: ___________________________ Phone: ______________________ Current gross income per month: _____________________ M Y CELL PHONE NUMBER (904-290-6226) I ___________________, Certify that answers given herein are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I authorize investigation of all statements contained in this application for tenant screening as may be necessary in arriving tenant decision. I understand that the landlord may terminate any rental agreement entered into for any misrepresentation made above. Looking forward to hearing from you with all these details so that I can have it in my file in case of issuing the receipt and contacting you. Await your reply so we can discuss on how to get the House document and the keys to you. Thanks and God bless you Barry N Sardinas.

  41. Michael

    What is really annoying is when you own one of these properties and have no interest in renting it. I get constant calls about a listing on Craig’s List when I am not looking to rent it for half my mortgage!

  42. Ted Baker

    You would think Craigslist would have the technology to scrub their listings for these similar kinds of rental listings. Here’s the e-mail I got back when looking for a house to rent.

    ———————————————————————————————————
    Thanks for your interest & property is still available for rent. I want a responsible person or family who are neat and also believe that they have all what it takes to take care of the property as if it where there own. Please be informed that I’m renting out the property because I was transferred to (MISSOURI) with my lovely family on contract project by American Society of Civil Engineers. (http://www.asce.org/).

    American Society of Civil Engineers | ASCE
    http://www.asce.org
    ASCE Foundation. Making a positive change in our communities is possible… but only if we start now, set our sights high, and work together. Your Foundation!

    We wanted to sell the property since we will be staying longer than we though & later my wife advised me not to sell the property anymore. I reasoned with her and accepted her advice so we contacted the agent back and requested for our keys and documents and put it for rent since we will back in the next 4 to 5 years.

    We would have given the same agent this job also but the truth of the matter is that the agent was asking too much of an agent fee and also made the rent high. We were not getting the responses we needed so i decided to terminated our contract with them and put it up for rent ourselves. If you notice, you will discover that the price we are offering is far below standard price and this is enough for you to know that we are not after the rental fee but the absolute care for the property. The house is available for as long as you want,which include utilities such as Air Conditioner Dishwasher Walk-in Closet Refrigerator Vaulted Ceilings Washer/Dryer Cable etc.

    House address:255 Boynton St,Manchester, NH 03102
    Monthly rent :$800
    Refundable Deposit: $800
    Bedroom:3
    Bathroom:1
    All utilities are include in the rent.

    APPLICATION FORM….

    1)Your Full Name________________________
    2)Current Address_______________________ ______
    3)Phone Number (________)Best time to reach you ?
    4)State________________
    5)City__________________
    6) Zip______________
    7)Are you married______________________
    8)Do you have Kids__________
    9)Do you have a pet______________
    10)Do you have a car______________________
    11)Occupation______________
    12)How many people will be living in the house___________
    13)Reasons for Leaving present home_________________
    14)How long lease are you looking for______________
    15)How soon do you intend moving in________________
    16)Date of Birth________________
    17)Numbers of Cars________________
    18)A picture of occupant ________________
    19)How soon can you make the Rent/Deposit payment________________
    20)How soon do you want to receive the keys/documents________________
    ============================= = ============== =========
    Application Comment
    ============================== ============== =========

    Please make sure this questions are filled correctly because the best way you answer with your comment will impress me the more to accept your application.
    Juan Carlos Ruiz
    (970) 639-0704
    Regards……

    1. Jason

      I just got this one. My guy just moved to (TEXAS).

    2. Mark

      I got that same exact one today. Mine said he moved to Georgia. Bastard!

      I knew it seemed odd because of the poor English used in the email, but I just figured it was someone who wasn’t from the US. To think that I might have eventually sent him some personal information, and possibly even a deposit. Ugh.

  43. A. M.

    Same thing in Atlanta.

    —————————————————————————————————————————–
    Hello,

    Thanks for your interest and inquiries about my house. The house is still available for rent and we are looking for a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the house. Myself and my family just traveled Out of town with Experience Mission. We will be away for about 4 years. The house is available for rent for short term and long term as we will be moving to our family house when we get back. I was unable to find a tenant before I traveled which is why I posted an ad online. My initial plan was to sell the house but it was not successful because the Realtor raised the price which made it difficult for me to sell so never mind if you see the for realtor sign in front of the house, it has already been taken off the market for sale so you will be dealing with me directly. How long do you intend to stay and how soon do you intend to move in?

    Rental price: $1000 per month and security deposit is $800 (security deposit is refundable). Pets are Welcome.

    House Address: 998 Glenwood Ave SE,

    Atlanta, GA 30316

    Get back to me so I can forward you the rent questionnaire I would want you to fill out.

    Regards and remain blessed.

    Chad M Phillips

    2nd email…

    Thanks for your response. I will look forward to working with you and I hope you become the right tenant for us as we need responsible people to take good care of the house. We also need serious applicants so we can move forward with the rental process.

    I WILL WANT YOU TO FILL THE RENT APPLICATION FORM BELOW:

    RENT APPLICATION FORM.

    Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : __________?

    Phone # : __________?

    E-mail : __________?

    Best time to call : __________?

    How many proposed occupants : __________?

    List of all occupants with approximate age : __________?

    Present Address : __________?

    City/State : __________?

    Will you have pets : __________?

    Please describe breed, size : __________?

    Personality of pet : __________?

    Preferred move in date : __________?

    Intended length of lease: __________?

    How much deposit can you put down today to secure the home for yourself: __________?

    Length of previous tenancy : __________?

    Present occupation : __________?

    Do you run a business from home : __________?

    If so what kind of business : __________?

    Do you work late night : __________?

    Do you smoke : __________?

    Do you drink : __________?

    CALL OR TEXT ME ON THIS NUMBER (775) 468-3473

    Please feel free to ask any questions you do not understand and I will be looking forward to receiving your email as soon as possible. As I am not around to show the inside, you can go check out the house and the neighborhood from the outside and get back to me

  44. Brooke Watkins

    These scammers are really everywhere. It’s to the point the response I received didn’t even answer the questions I asked. Well I found this on craigslist. Washington Heights Studio for 900.

    Hello,

    Thanks for your interest in my apartment it’s still available for rent. I am sure you would be asking yourself why my rent is low, that’s because I am not too keen about the money in renting the apartment out but to whom I am renting the apartment out to. My intention is to rent my apartment to someone that is responsible and that would take great care of the apartment as if it were his or hers. I am very certain that you would love the comfy of the apartment, it is available for short and long term lease.

    I would like you to know that I am giving this apartment out for rent because I have relocated to West Africa on a missionary work and I would be spending couple of years before I would be through with my assignment. So my family and I have decided that we would be moving to our other home in Seattle, Washington when we get back to the states, I would like you to complete the tenant application form below if you are interested in my apartment and please be honest with the details.

    Rent Fees:
    Rent Per Month: $875 (Including Utilities)
    Security Deposit: $750 (Refundable)
    LOCATION : 44 Seaman Ave APT 3G, New York, NY 10034.

    APARTMENT FEATURES:
    Bedrooms: 1
    Bathrooms: 1
    Sqft: 750
    Property type: Apartment
    Parking: Yes
    Availability: now
    Lease term: Contact for Details
    Utilities included: electricity, water, gas, internet, cable, garbage.

    COMPLETE THE TENANT APPLICATION FORM BELOW:
    FIRST NAME:
    MIDDLE NAME:
    LAST NAME:
    AGE:
    SEX:
    MARITAL STATUS:
    CELL PHONE:
    HOME PHONE:
    KIDS___ (YES/NO), HOW MANY:
    PRESENT ADDRESS:
    WHY ARE YOU LEAVING?
    WHEN DO YOU INTEND TO MOVE IN:
    DO YOU HAVE PET:
    DO YOU SMOKE:

    After I have received these details above, I would discuss with my wife and let you know my terms and how we would conclude the Lease process so you can move into the apartment asap.

    I hope to hear from you soonest.

    1. Timothy

      I have come across a place called how2rentagain and was wondering if this could be a scam, talking about how to having landlords not being able to see my credit score or rental history. I have Life Lock but still is concerning. I have

  45. Teresa

    I give him props for finding out the name of the actual owner of the property. But you think they would change or at least improve their language a bit.

    Thanks for getting back to me regarding my house,It gives me great joy to know that you are interested in my lovely house,I am Rev. Franklin Xu, the owner of the house you are making inquiry of. Presently my house is still available for rent and ready for immediately occupancy for just $1350 (rent already includes utilities).. I am sure you would be asking yourself why my rent is low, that’s because I am not too keen about the amount in renting the place out but to whom I am renting the house out to take great care of it and I have put the house up for sale before now but had to change my mind as my wife is not OK with us selling the house so my intention is to rent my house to someone that is responsible and be ready to take great care of the house as if it were his or her own, that is why the rent is low. and I plan to rent it through Real estate, but they are not serious simply because they have a lot of property to lease out and they also put our house in a higher rate while there commission is not fair. I am very certain that you would love the comfy of the house. The house is available for 3 years for now but you can live there to the period of time you wish and you can also move out as long as you can, you just need to inform me a month before you live so that I can look for another tenant like you do.

    I would like you to know that I am giving this house out for rent because I have been transferred to EAST AFRICA on a Missionary Work by my church. My wife came here to join me with my kids after some months I was transfer because My Father is ill and my brother’s have take him to Argentina for surgery. and if not because of this, I wouldn’t have been renting the house out because me and my family resides in the house and we love it so much. I would like you to complete the tenant application form below and please be honest with the details to enable us choose the right tenant. I can be reach here and you can call or text anytime (970)984-8602.

    This is the address of the house (22761 Medina Ln Cupertino, CA 95014)

    It has a dramatic entry foyer with ceramic floor. Extremely spacious rooms throughout. Nice and light! Very quiet, low traffic area. I believe its absolutely a perfect place for you and your family. Utilities include Electric, Water, Trash, Sewer, Gas Etc….

    Number of Bedrooms: 2
    Number of Bathrooms:2

    1,100 sqft

    Pets are welcome!!!

    SO COMPLETE THE TENANT RENTAL APPLICATION FORM BELOW IF YOU REALLY INTERESTED IN RENTING:

    1)Your Full Name______________________________
    2)Your Full Address & Phone Number______________________________
    3)Are you married?_________________________
    4)How many people will be living in the house______________________________
    5)Do you have a pet______________________________
    6)Do you have a car______________________________
    7)Occupation______________________________
    8)When will you like to move in?_____________________________
    9)How long are you willing to stay in the property________________
    10)Picture of the occupant If Available____________________________
    11)When are you ready to Move In?________________
    12)How Many Months are you willing to rent?________________
    13) How Soon Do You Have The Deposit?_____________

    The Landlord is authorized to use the information provided herein to conduct any and all investigations as deemed prudent by the Landlord. A Deposit of $1350 (which happens to be the security deposit) is required before moving in. You can drive by the house anytime to see the surroundings and the area since I am not in the around then we discuss on how to FedEx the keys paper work to you.

    Looking forward to hear from you with all this details so we can proceed further. You can call or text me for more information on the rental (970)984-8602.

    I hope to hear from you soonest. God Bless You,

    Rev. Franklin Xu.

    “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil….”Proverbs 3: 5-7.

    1. Tim

      Yup, got this just a couple days ago.

      Hello Roommate,

      Thank you for your response regarding my rental room. It gives me great joy to know that you are interested to become my roommate. The room is still very much available for rent. My name is Sophia Hamilton. I’m 28 yrs single. My Job Description, I am An RN, short for registered nurse, treats patients and provides advice and emotional support to them and their families.I educate patients, as well as the public, about medical conditions.There are also registered nurses who provide primary or specialty care to patients. I’m presently out of state 2 weeks training program based on my career and i won’t be back until next week, but still the room can be secured for you if you really have interest in renting it. I’m very outgoing, honest and responsible.. Very clean and neat as a pin but not ridiculously fastidious. lol. Can be quiet when I’m working, but bubbly and love to laugh.I usually like to chill and sketch or watch a movie after the work day, but always open to get a quick bite every now and then. Weekends are wherever the wind takes me. I like to take drives in my little Beetle convertible and go exploring.

      These apartment belongs to my Dad, he’s managing and maintaining the apartment. My Dad and i live together in the apartment before he re-married and moved to Indiana with his new wife, but he wanted me to find someone who will be living with me in the apartment. Ideally, I’m looking for someone with zero drama, pay bills on time and responsible with the rent. Someone i can get along with, male or female who is clean and tidy, a good laugh respect privacy and wouldn’t mind doing things together as roommates once in a while. If this is what you are looking for, i will like you to complete the questionnaire listed below.

      Address: 750 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
      Rent per month: $700(All utilities included)
      Security deposit: $700(Fully refundable)

      Full Name?
      Profession?
      Cell Phone?
      Present Address?
      Do you work late night and do you smoke and drink? (We just need to come to an understanding before giving out the room ) Let’s be clear on that.
      Do you do drugs?
      Do you have a pet?
      Please describe Breed, size?
      When are you ready to Move In, please write exact move in date?
      Do you have a car?
      How long do you intend staying?
      Can i trust you and my apartment safe keeping in your hands?

      The apartment is also in a very quiet location, vibrant neighborhood with great variety of cafes, bars, restaurants, groceries, public library and amenities. Taxis can be hailed anywhere at any time day or night. I am confidently assuring you that you will be more than satisfied when you come to the apartment while you will have your private entrance, private bathroom. I look forward to hear from you soonest at your convenient with the questionnaire above fill out so we can proceed further with the renting process asap. Please include at least two pictures of you and also find the attached pictures of the living room, the kitchen, the bedroom and the bathroom you are renting.

      Regards,
      Sophia…

  46. Jeri

    Hello Dear

    Thanks for your interest and inquiries about my home. Yes the home is still available for rent and we are looking for a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the home now that we are not around. Myself and my wife just travelled to Harrisburg ,Pennsylvania, for a program called SERVING IN MISSION (SIM), you can view the link for more info: (redacted).

    We will be away for 3 to 4 years or more that is why I have made up my mind to put up my home for rent to whom ever that will take good care of it. However, my initial plan was to sell the home but it was not successful because the Realtor raised the price which made it difficult for me to sell before leaving the States so never mind if you see the for sale sign in front of the home, It has already been taken off the market as for sale so there is no need to contact any Realtor.
    I want you to understand that I spent a lot on my property that you have requested to rent, so I will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this home and would want you to treat it as your own because cleanliness they say is next to Godliness. It is not all about the money to be paid on rent or spent; it is all about a good maintenance culture which I want you to adopt on the property.

    I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that I would be full of smiles whenever I come and above all, a good, strong and tight relationship between us when I come for a check up. Please one more thing, I wouldn’t like to have any benefit of trust in you because I want to stand in your words that the property would be well taken care of all the time. I believe you have seen how lovely it is if from only the pictures you saw in my posting compare to the 100% comfort to be derived from it as you are an occupant.

    FEATURES : Laundry, Electric Range, Electric Heat, Master Bedroom, Playground, Car Park.
    AMENITIES: Air Conditioning, Patio/Party Deck, Cable TV, Ceiling Fans, 24 hours Internet service, Dishwasher, Fireplace, Garbage Disposal, Microwave, security alarm, Pets Friendly, Refrigerator, Washer / Dryer.

    Rental Price: $500 per month and security Deposit is $300 (Security Deposit is Refundable) Utilities included in monthly rent.

    Pets are Welcome.
    Here is the address to the Home:
    Bedroom:1
    Bathroom:1
    Living Building Square Footage: 2,257

    I may not be returning to the home because we plan buying another home upon arrival. For more inquiries.

    SO IF YOU ARE REALLY INTERESTED I WILL WANT YOU TO FILL THE RENT APPLICATION FORM BELOW:

    RENT APPLICATION FORM.
    Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : __________?
    Phone numbers (home,cell and office line ) # :__________?
    E-mail :__________?
    Best time to call :__________?
    Marital Status:__________?
    How many proposed occupants :__________?
    List all in addition to yourself including approx age :__________?
    Present Address :__________?
    City/State :__________?
    Will you have pets :__________?
    Please describe Breed, size :__________?
    Personality of pet :__________?
    Preferred move in date :__________?
    Intended length of lease:__________?
    Do you agree to pay the payment before you move in:__________?
    Earliest possible date of deposit payment:__________?
    Length of previous tenancy :__________?
    Present occupation :__________?
    Are you a section 8 applicant
    Do you work late night :__________?
    Do you smoke :__________?
    Do you drink :__________?

    Looking forward to hearing back from you with all this details so that i can have them in my file in case of issuing your rent payment receipt to you and for contacting you. Your quick response will be highly appreciated so that we can discuss on how to get the documents and the keys of my property to you via Express Delivery Services. May GOD bless you and your family and if you are finding it

    Regards.
    MR & MRS MATT ROGER

    1. Jeri

      Also this listing was for a studio apartment and the address showed a shotgun duplex. If the property is inconsistent with the description, it’s a red flag, along with their not being able to show you the place in person.

  47. Susan G

    I like to do research, and I often go to the county’s assessor’s page. Often a lot of info can be found there, like who owns the property. Today I got an email from a scammer. Too bad too, because that place would have been ideal. It’s for sale, and I have no way to buy it. The house is held in trust, and I contacted the agency managing the trust; they are the ones that informed me it was for sale not rent. I sent them the link. Since I’ve been in contact with them, I may even ask if they would be willing to rent month-to-month, until it’s sold; since it’s been on the market for a while.

  48. Kristine

    I knew this was a scam because what landlord can’t show a unit for rent !?!
    Thanks for your interest,My name is Richard Thomas just moved down to North Carolina, due to my job transfer as a Civil Engineer, I will be here for 2 to 3 years. My initial plan was to sell the apartment but I find it difficult to let go this adorable home, in case if you find the Property on another website,that is the old advert. I have decided to rent this to a responsible tenant who is willing to take very good care of it in our absence and also be a responsible person (With good recommendation) that can take care of it as we are not after the money.

    Below are some questions I need you to answer so we can discuss further. You can only drive by the property for now to check the outside and the neighbourhood, it is available for a short and long lease. Get back to me for further discussion on how to get the keys and paperwork of the property to you if I find you suitable and decide to rent the property to you..

    Details:
    Rent: $1000(Monthly)
    Security Deposit Fee: $450
    Date Available: Asap

    RENT QUESTIONNAIRE

    1) Your Full Name ?
    2) Present Address (where you reside now) ?
    3) Phone ?
    4) Age ?
    5) Occupation ?
    6) Rent & Deposit require before move in, do you agree ?
    7) How many people will be living in the property ?
    8) When do you intend to move in ?
    9) Do you have a pet ?
    10) Do you smoke ?
    11) How long do you want to stay?
    12) Occupant Picture?

    Please feel free to ask any questions you do not understand and i will be looking forward to receive your email as soon as possible. As i am not around to show the inside, you can go check out the property and the neighbourhood from the outside and get back to me if you really like it for more information.you can reach me at my cell phone number or text me at any time (704) 565-0303. Please respond ASAP.

    Best Regards.

  49. Erica

    I received a similar email as well.
    Hello Mate,

    Thanks for your interest in my house, i am Wright Alan Thomas
    work as Site Machine operator and the owner of the apartment,I have
    really decided to give out the house as a result of my transfer to a
    NEW Joint Company in China/Turkey/philippines under Cinocheim Group
    Ltd with the whole family due to my New contract which takes 3
    years.My Father is ill and his presently in Germany for surgery The
    house is available for long term and the
    building is in a great location situated in the quiet and safe area
    and offers secure access. internet, cable, laundry in-suite, storage
    facilities, heat, water, electric and parking is included in the rent
    and pet are allowed. i am going to be back in the country in 3 years time.

    The money is not the actual reason for the rent, but the need for
    someone to occupy the flat so as to maintain the facilities in the apartment,
    we need a clean and tidy tenant who will be hygienic and in best place to make
    the apartment always maintained, because we would feel very bad
    if the house is used roughly,The apartment has its personal laundry
    with a washing and drying machine.

    Please note that, we are a kind and honest family,that spent a lot on
    property that is available for rent, so in one accord,we are
    soliciting for your absolute maintenance of this house and want you to
    treat it as your own.

    Its well furnished and all amenities are Included. Such as :
    Dishwasher,Gas cooker, Fridge , Microwave , Washer/Dryer ,Cable
    Television , Electricity , Heat , Parking Water/Sewer
    Bathroom,Hardwood,Internet Access , Internet access and many more
    that’s the only property we have left in the Country.

    Minimum lease time is one Month ( 1 Month ) and maximize depends on
    how longer you would like to stay.

    We are renting it out since we need someone to take good care of the
    property on my absent.I have plan to rent it through Real estate
    before, but they are not serious simply because they have a lot of
    house to lease out, And they added some money to the rent while there
    commission is not fair.i know its going to be difficult handling this
    but all i need is trust from Tenant to Landlord.

    Rental fee of $200/weekly includes Water, Cables tv, Internet wi-fi
    and Electricity bills with a washing and drying machine,fridge,
    kitchen set, full set electronics and heater is also in the apartment.

    Apartment Details

    Address: 126 Mounts Bay Road Perth WA 6000

    Rent is $ 200 Weekly
    $ 800 Monthly + Bond $800 Refundable at the End of your stay.

    Kindly fill out the rent application form to this email if you are interested.

    *********RENT APPLICATION FORM********
    (Private and Confidential)

    Also, Please let me get answer to the application below :-
    1)Your Full Name ?
    2)Your Full Address Where You Reside Right Now ?
    3)Reachable Mobile Phone Number ?
    4)Age ?
    5) Sex ?
    6)Are You Married ?
    7)How many people will be living in the apartment?
    8)Do You have a Pet ?
    9)Do You have a Car ?
    10)Occupation ?
    11) Citizen Of Which Country ?
    12)How Long Did You Want To Stay ?
    13)What Is Your Moving In Date ?
    14) When Did You Please On Moving Out ?
    15) How Many Month Rent Are You Willing To Pay ( First 1 month rent +
    bond) or If You Pay ( First 2 month rent + bond And Get 1 Month
    Free)…So which one do you prefer ?
    16) Scan copy of your international passport for a prove of identity.

    Thanks and God bless you more as you do this.

    I look forward to hearing from you ASAP.

    Regards.
    Wright Alan Thomas

    BUT THE PROBLEM IS, he sent the passport for me as a proof, and the following email.
    Thanks for the understanding,i don’t want you to be doubting me your
    money is well safe,If you are thinking that I just wanted to take your
    money for nothing.When I known how people worked and earn their money,
    I will never think of taking some advantages over you and your money,
    please take that out of your mind, that is really awful thing on the
    earth that I will never think about doing. Please understand me
    better, I was not trying to lure you into this, everything about me is
    100% real ok, i can never tarnish my name and image all because of
    money and i wouldn’t do such a thing when i have
    blood running through my vein. i will never tarnish my imagine all
    because of money all necessary documents including the rent receipt as
    been included in the package.i have to send you a prove of Delivery since
    i am a also a honest person so put your worry aside am so happy here
    to rent out my apartment for you and am sure you surely like the place
    when you received the package.

    Kindly find a copy of my identity of whom you are speaking with and i
    hope you know what it takes sending my identity to you,kindly handle
    with care, you should find your self lucky and Appreciating we
    Accepting you as our Tenant and i hope you know what it takes at this
    point by not letting us down.

    i know its going to be difficult handling this but all i need is trust
    from Tenant to Landlord.

    Its well furnished and all amenities are Included. Such as :
    Dishwasher,Gas cooker, Fridge , Microwave , Washer/Dryer ,Cable
    Television , Electricity , Heat , Parking , Water/Sewer
    Bathroom,Internet Access and many more.

    the facilities in the apartment. Like i said,i am emphasizing on is
    your ability to take good care of the apartment for us because that’s
    the only property we have left in the Country.

    please am giving you all this based on trust and again i want you to
    stick to your words, am putting everything into Gods hand, so please
    do not let me down.

    i am having 100% trust in you and like i told you am humble and a
    honest man, i am really not after the money but a good and neat
    person i know the apartment is like giving it out… its going to be
    my 1st time posting my apartment on the Net.

    i strongly believe that everything is going to work out fine as
    planed.please put your worry aside, you will surly receive what you
    pay for.

    All Documentation/Agreement would be attached to the Parcel due
    to security reason over the internet.

    Kindly Note i would never cheat on you, this is a New Year and
    i also consider you as a hard working Human to Earn a living.

    Since I rent from overseas and cannot have a look before renting, should I trust him?

    1. David

      I receive similar too, not sure if it’s real ?

  50. La La Bethel

    So I’m wondering if I can get scammed if I’m trying to rent? I’m actually renting out the back part of my house and for some reason I have 2 inquiries almost exactly the same. They are out of town but urgent to rent and send money (from 3rd party in the US) to secure move. The 3rd party is their father.. he will send cashiers check to secure rent due to them being out the of the country right now. Both potential tenants are coming to finish their schooling. One is coming for their masters in geology and the other their bachelor in something else. One is deaf so she can’t talk on the phone for an interview. They’re both asking my full name & address within the 1msg. Is this normal? Someone so eager to rent without seeing the place, willing to send payment straight away? 😐

    1. This sounds like a scam to me.

  51. L.H.

    This was a scam that almost got my husband and I. Thanks be God we weren’t further harmed.

    Good morning and thanks for your mail with also the warm response. I was in well receipt of your filled rental application form with also the lovely details about yourself which i must confess that we both did find it very very satisfactory and believe you to be the best occupant for our home. Myself and my fiancee are very exited and willing to let you move into our home as soon as possible as we have concluded on accepting you to move in as soon as you are ready. So as we shall be renting our unit to you, please we want you to take very good care of the unit because i had spend a lot of money on the property so we might be glad when coming by sometime this year to see how neat you’ve been keeping the place. Hope everything about this process is fine with you? However, if you are ready to rent our home now, that will not be a problem but i will advice you due to you are a responsible and reliable person, a refundable Security Deposit will be made before moving in and also i would like to send the following document to you via FedEx Courier Service to the address you’ve provided to me in the rental application form and the tracking number will be sent to you so that you can track the shipment and know when it arrives London. Once again, we are giving you this based on trust and do not disappoint us as we promise that you would love our home as i believe you must have seen how well organized and maintained it is from the pictures compared to the 100% comfort you would be deriving from it been an occupant. The package containing the (Keys, Home Documentary Files, Letter Of Access And The Hard Copy Of The Tenancy Lease Agreement) will be delivered withing 24 hours to you.

    NB: I want you to know that we would be sending you the package via FedEx courier company as soon as you make the payments for the refundable deposit which is $400. Please do get back to me immediately as soon as you get this as i would love to instruct you on how best to send the funds so i can get the home keys and all necessary documents arranged then sent to you before hand.

    I await your soonest response and do have a lovely day ahead.
    Best Regards,
    Thomas.

    1. L.H.

      This is the initial email they sent me. The ad was asking for someone to take good care of the home because they had disrespectful renters previously and wanted to ensure their investment wasn’t further harmed and wanted to handle the rental of this apartment themselves.

      Hello,
      Good morning and thanks for your interest in my home which my fiancee and i are looking to lease out, and it’s still very much available for rent. I am a Geologist and my work can be quite tedious because it involves mineral researches, I’m an easy going person and also very friendly. I like music and have deep interests in traveling. I respect every religion and also love to hang around with people and i am definitely not a trouble maker and very helpful in nature. I just moved to Los Angeles, CA now due to my new research and also to be close to my fiancee as we are about getting married in few weeks time. The unit is located in a safe and secured neighborhood which i think is the most important thing for one to know before relocating. You are free to drive or walk by so you can tour the exterior of the building if you wish. Unit Address: (272 Dundas St, London, ON N6B 1T6) Rent: $750 Damage Deposit: $400.Only well behaved pets are welcomed, utilities included (Heat, Water, Electricity and Internet/Cable). The minimum lease term is 2 months, and a maximum of 1 years with also possibility of extension. I and my fiancee decided to handle the rental process ourselves due to our past experience with estate agents and tenant because all they care about is their own commission instead of taking time to verify applicants application and do a proper background check before leasing to such individual, the last tenant that rented from us through an estate agent destroyed most of our valuable home appliances. I know how much i spent to replace the things that was destroyed in the home, a whole lot of people have contacted me regarding the home but not just sure of who to accept due to the horrible experience we had with the last tenant. All we want is a very responsible, trustworthy and caring person that will take care of the home like his/her own and if you can assure me that the unit will be in good hands, i would be happy to let you rent from me for as long as you wish. Fill out the rental application form below and send it back to me as soon as you can if you are still very much interested in renting my unit. I would be happy to give you a call once this is done, because it is always best we speak over the phone.

      *****RENTAL APPLICATION FORM****
      (Private and Confidential)

      FIRST NAME:
      MIDDLE NAME:
      LAST NAME:
      (CELL)PHONE:
      (OFFICE)PHONE:
      BEST TIME TO CALL:
      EMAIL:
      KIDS : (YES/NO), HOW MANY :
      PRESENT ADDRESS:
      CITY:
      PROVINCE:
      POSTAL CODE:
      WHEN DO YOU INTEND MOVING IN:
      HOW LONG DO YOU INTEND STAYING:
      HOW MANY MONTH RENT ARE YOU WILLING TO PAY UPFRONT:
      HOW SOON CAN YOU MAKE THE DEPOSIT FEES:
      DO YOU HAVE PET :
      KIND OF PETS:
      HABITS:
      DO YOU SMOKE :
      DO YOU DRINK :
      DO YOU WORK LATE NIGHT:
      REFERENCE……..
      NAME:
      ADDRESS:

      Please make sure this questions are fill correctly because the best way you answer with your filled details will impress me the more to accept your application.

      N:B: However, my initial plan was to sale out the unit which i tried but sometimes the agents inflates the price and it takes longer to sell. I am telling you this just in case if you find the unit on another website, that is the old advert. Because of this reason and more we need a rental agreement with a responsible person that can take very good care of it as we are not after the money but want it to be clean and for you to take care of it as if it were yours. We would be looking forward to receiving your email as soon as possible.

      Regards,
      Thomas.

  52. Marcy

    Actually, I used to live in a college town in Indiana and it was very normal for students to rent apartments site unseen because they were coming from another country to go to the university. A lot of students from India, Pakistan, or China. Only the wealthiest students can afford to come to the US for school, so to have their father pay the rent in advance is not unusual. I’m not saying there aren’t scammers out there, but just because they say they are coming from out of the country doesn’t automatically make them suspect.

    In another vein, I’m currently looking for a rental in Roanoke, VA and have twice now answered a CL ad, only to have replies from two different people/email addresses, both saying they are the landlord. I just deleted them because it sounded completely fishy to me. I Googled around to see if fake rental ads on CL happen and found this site. Looks like lots of fakers out there.

  53. Squid

    This is a M2M rental and the final asking price is $1000 and it includes all utilities. It comes furnished as it is in the pictures. it is available to view when the current tenant moves out by Thursday 11th of July so the earliest you will be able to view will be on Friday 12th of July but it might get rented out before then as we have been getting a lot of inquiries in regards to the home and it goes to anyone that pays first to secure the rent. We will allow a drive by to view the property for someone who promise not to disturb our current tenant. We require the first month lease plus security deposit to secure move in. Let us know if you will like to proceed in securing the lease so we can send you an application form to apply for the renting of our home.

    FIRST NAME:__________?
    MIDDLE NAME:__________?
    LAST NAME:__________?
    PROFESSION:__________?
    PHONE(MOBILE)__________?
    (WORK)PHONE__________?
    (HOME)PHONE__________?
    KIDS_____ (YES/NO), HOW MANY________?
    PRESENT ADDRESS: _____________________?
    CITY: _______________?
    STATE:______________?
    ZIP CODE: ____________?
    HOW LONG DO YOU INTEND STAYING ____________?
    HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE LIVING IN THE HOUSE:____________?
    DO YOU HAVE A CAR:____________?
    WHEN DO YOU INTEND MOVING IN?______________?
    HOW SOON DO YOU WANT TO RECEIVE THE KEYS:____________? ( We are available to meeting with you on moving day and hand you the keys and make sure everything looks good for your move in.)
    IF YOU HAVE A PET,
    NAME OF PET: _____________?
    KIND OF PETS: _____________?
    HABITS
    DO YOU SMOKE ______________ ?
    DO YOU DRINK ______________?
    DO YOU WORK LATE NIGHT?____?
    REFERENCES; 1.
    2.
    3.

  54. Gina

    This is the initial email I received. She sent me the pictures of the place and it seems too good to be true. I hope there will be no more victims by the same email like this.

    From: Annette Day Toni
    Subject:2617 College Ave Berkeley, CA 94704

    I’m very sorry for the late reply have been very busy. The unit is still available and the monthly rent is $1320 including with the utilities bills.The Security deposit is $1300 and is refunded back to you the day you move out.The unit is located at 2617 College Ave Berkeley, CA 94704 . The unit Pictures is attached , Washer & dryer is in the unit and one parking spot is assign for the apartment. i just move out of the unit and staying with my husband now, how many people want to stay in the unit and do you have any pets.

    If you are ready to apply and would like to be considered as the new occupant of the unit you need to go through application process and Submit a complete application for reviewed. Kindly get back if you really want to rent the unit, So that i can send you the rental application and get started with the application processing.

    Thanks for your time

    Mrs Annette

    1. Gina

      Oh and here is the second email from her.

      Thanks for showing interest, Me and my husband we are on vacation for our 31st wedding anniversary in a resort before my husband fall down and was rush to the hospital was diagnose cancer, so he need to receive an urgent treatment and i need to be with him . my own concern is that i want to be ensure that you are a committed and neat person to rent the unit because I have been disappointed by people who are just time wasting. If you want to rent the unit you need to go through the application process and once your application is reviewed and approved,The property body cooperate will register your name as the new occupant of the unit then we can make arrangement when to meet at the unit and finalize your rent and introduce you to the authority .You can swing by and view the the unit because the unit is locked and i have the keys with me

      Thanks for your time

      Mrs Annette

  55. Brittany Holman

    Most recent one I’ve come acrossed:

    Thank you very much for the interest in my home. l want you to know that the property you are writing me about is still available for move in but before we proceed any further.My Name is Mr Alex Coleman , I want you to know that the kind of tenant l am looking forward to have,clean,quiet,respectful and responsible someone that will treat the house with care and respect. l don’t need the partying type but if you can assure me of the safety of the house if i decided to accept you as my new tenant l will be happy to let you rent from me for as long as you wish.I want you to know am on the missionary assignment here with m. e and my family to Magee , Mississippi United state .

  56. Cindy Rybaczyk

    I just posted a similar article about rental scams today – I was surprised to see it listed as #1 on your list of scams… it’s a new one here in Lake County, Florida. Someone posed as the property owner of a place for rent. Previously I had only heard of someone attempting to do that online or over the phone. This person was brave enough to do it in person. She advertised the property for rent, showed it multiple times, found a renter, signed a lease with them, and collected the necessary money (in cash) for the person to move-in. The person was told their move-in date and they assumed everything was fine. On the day they were to move in, the supposed owner was nowhere to be found. It turns out that the scammer was the previous tenant who knew she was being evicted! In her anger, she decided to take advantage of someone else in order to have money for her next security deposit, posing as the owner of the property. It’s amazing the depths people will go to in order to take advantage of others!

  57. justin christensen

    What should I do if I gave out my email and phone number and personal photo(not my drivers license id) and downloaded the pdf question document on my computer and sent it back to the scammer. The pdf was supposed to signed and scaned and sent back, but only filled it out and sent back with no signature. Am I in trouble for identy theft

    LEASE PROPERTY
    10:32 AM (3 hours ago)
    to me

    Hello,

    The apartment is available for rent and the neighborhood is secured!

    The address is: 1363 Plaza Pacifica Montecito, CA 93108
    The month rent including utilities.
    Rent: $2,100. Security Deposit: $1,500 (Refundable After Lease period, As long as there are no damages on property after inspection).
    Total move-in cost will be $3,600
    Living Building Square Footage: 900sqft
    Number Of Bedrooms: 1
    Number Of Bathrooms: 2
    Lease flexible:
    Furnished apartment:
    Pets are allowed as long as they are not destructive.

    Just to let you know before we move any further, I am currently in
    Naval Air Station at the moment, i would be working here for the next few years.
    I personally own the apartment and my initial plan
    was to sell the apartment and buy another apartment over here but the agents
    were not honest with me, they took advantage of me and the previous
    tenant by getting higher rent from them and never deliver the money to
    me so i have decided to handle it by myself. The Agents are like licensed deceitful thieves and this is why I am handling the Rent by myself. You deal with me directly and you have nothing to worry about.

    The apartment is properly maintained and updated as I believe you have seen how lovely it is if from only the pictures you saw in my posting compare to the 100% comfort to be derived from it once you are an occupant, so i will solicit for your absolute maintainance of this apartment and would want you to treat it as your own personal home because cleanliness they say is next to Godliness. It is not all about the money to be paid on rent or spent; it is all about a good maintenance culture which I want you to adopt on the property.

    You can come take a look, but it depends on your viewing date because there are presently some occupants in the property for now, and will be leaving on the 20th of October so you won’t be able to view until then. However there are lot of request coming in for the property and much willing to secure ahead of date. If you wish to secure ahead of date, You go view around the neighborhood and surrounding of the property but i can’t guarantee checking out the inside of the property because we don’t invade in the privacy of our current tenant which is why i posted the pictures for the advert.

    Kindly get back to me if you are satisfied viewing the surroundings of the property, so i can send over the Qustionnaire form to fill out, along with the rental agreement and bank details for payment. but you can try to secure it ahead of date because they are other occupants interested in it so let me know ASAP. I’m ready to accept either monthly or upfront mode of payment. Depending on the one you’re most Comfortable with.

    IF STILL INTERESTED.I AWAIT YOUR RESPONSE FOR FURTHER PROCESSING!

    Thank you

    I got your response and i can see your willingness in my apartment.
    The apartment is properly maintained and updated and I will be glad to have you as my tenant!.

    I am ready to accept either monthly or upfront mode of payment. I
    just hope you will take care of the apartment just like your own personal
    home. The paperwork to fill out is attached to this email, print, get
    it filled and scan it back to me here as soon as possible or type
    answer for each question in the provided space and forward it back to
    me for proper documentation, then we can proceed on how to get the
    keys and all necessary documents to you. I just hope that i can trust
    you with my apartment and that you will take good care of it just like it were yours.

    Once i gets these details, the contract shall be prepared,
    confirming that you have reserved the apartment.
    I trust i will read from you soonest with these details so that I
    can put them in my file. It is mandatory that the documents attached
    herein are filled by you and scanned and sent to my mail for proper
    documentation…. fill in the forms and feel free ask questions.

    I want you to understand that there are other interested occupants
    sending emails and this may subject to a First Pay, First Served basis!

    Thank you

  58. Maria

    I find a few. The houses are for sale etc.
    They are using pictures from houses are for SALE!!
    I do not send money to anyone before I see the property inside.
    Why pay for an application before you see the property inside etc..
    This needs to be share so people know what is going on.
    Share Facebook etc..

  59. Kelly

    This guy almost had me but I listened to my gut.

    Thank you for your email, I personally own the house, I want my property to be well serviced, and there are some rules and regulations in which I give the tenant willing to rent my house so please do not fail to respect me, But if still you are able to rent my house the rules and regulations go this way, you must keep my house clean including the environment, you should not disturb the neighbor. I decided to rent the property because of my transfer to (Pennsylvania), with the World Forum Foundation to promote a global exchange of ideas about providing quality services for young children in diverse environments, so we are renting since we need someone to take good care of the property in our absentee. Do not be surprised if you find the house with another site and price deference, I have a plan to rent it through real estate before, but they are not serious, simply because they have a lot of house to rent and added some money to the rent while the commission is not fair.

    Keep this in mind that you must know the type of person that I am, however I give you these rules for what corresponded between me and my last tenant. the keys and documents are here with us in (Pennsylvania). So I’ll need to send them to you before I can occupy the house. But you can drive around the house at any time to take a look at the area and surroundings, You can also look through the windows if you do not mind. For now we are looking for 3 or 4 years of lease or rather lets us know how long you want to stay.

    All utilities are included in the rent :

    FEATURES : Laundry, Electric Range, Electric Heat, Master Bedroom, Playground, Car Park.

    AMENITIES: Air Conditioning, Patio/Party Deck, Cable TV, Ceiling Fans, 24 hours Internet service, Dishwasher, Fireplace, Garbage Disposal, Microwave, security alarm, Pets Friendly, Refrigerator, Washer / Dryer.

    DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY ………..

    Address: {6846 Hurd Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45227}

    Number of rooms: 3
    Number of bathrooms: 2
    Pets are welcome!
    Rent: $ 700
    Refundable security deposit: $ 700
    Application fee $ 50
    Total movement in: $ 1,450

    Don’t feel bad if you feel proud and haughty, your new home is just too pretty. Don’t feel guilty if you feel like showing off a bit, the beauty of your new home is totally worth it.

    **** DETAILS OF THE RENTAL APPLICATION ****
    Please, if you are now ready to occupy the house kindly provide the following information for registration purposes:

    1)Your Full Name ?

    2)Your Full Address ?

    3)Cell Phone Number ?

    4)Marital Status?

    5)How many people will be living in the house ?

    6)Do you have a pet ?

    7)Do you have a car ?

    8)Occupation ?

    9)When will you like to move in?

    10)How long are you willing to stay in the property ?

    11) How many months rent can you pay upfront? Minimum ( 1month +
    SECURITY DEPOSIT )
    or ( 2 months + SECURITY DEPOSIT ), so which option
    do you prefer ???

    12)Earliest possible date of deposit?

    Notice: Call me or send me a text message by filling out the application immediately. I hope to hear from you with all these details so that we can have our file in case you send the receipt and we contact you.

    Call +1 (717) 447-8018

    Thank you and may God bless you.
    William Thoresen Bartscher

    1. Domenique

      I got the same guy !!!!

      Thank you for your email, I personally own the house, I want my property to be well serviced, and there are some rules and regulations in which I give the tenant willing to rent my house so please do not fail to respect me, But if still you are able to rent my house the rules and regulations go this way, you must keep my house clean including the environment, you should not disturb the neighbor. I decided to rent the property because of my transfer to (Pennsylvania), with the World Forum Foundation to promote a global exchange of ideas about providing quality services for young children in diverse environments, so we are renting since we need someone to take good care of the property in our absentee. Do not be surprised if you find the house with another site and price deference, I have a plan to rent it through real estate before, but they are not serious, simply because they have a lot of house to rent and added some money to the rent while the commission is not fair.

      Keep this in mind that you must know the type of person that I am, however I give you these rules for what corresponded between me and my last tenant. the keys and documents are here with us in (Pennsylvania). So I’ll need to send them to you before I can occupy the house. But you can drive around the house at any time to take a look at the area and surroundings, You can also look through the windows if you do not mind. For now we are looking for 3 or 4 years of lease or rather lets us know how long you want to stay.

      All utilities are included in the rent :

      FEATURES : Laundry, Electric Range, Electric Heat, Master Bedroom, Playground, Car Park.

      AMENITIES: Air Conditioning, Patio/Party Deck, Cable TV, Ceiling Fans, 24 hours Internet service, Dishwasher, Fireplace, Garbage Disposal, Microwave, security alarm, Pets Friendly, Refrigerator, Washer / Dryer.

      DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY ………..

      Address: {3 Pauls Ct, Hauppauge, NY 11788}

      Number of rooms: 3
      Number of bathrooms: 2
      Pets are welcome!
      Rent: $ 900
      Refundable security deposit: $ 900
      Application fee $ 50
      Total movement in: $ 1,850

      Don’t feel bad if you feel proud and haughty, your new home is just too pretty. Don’t feel guilty if you feel like showing off a bit, the beauty of your new home is totally worth it.

      **** DETAILS OF THE RENTAL APPLICATION ****
      Please, if you are now ready to occupy the house kindly provide the following information for registration purposes:

      1)Your Full Name ?

      2)Your Full Address ?

      3)Cell Phone Number ?

      4)Marital Status?

      5)How many people will be living in the house ?

      6)Do you have a pet ?

      7)Do you have a car ?

      8)Occupation ?

      9)When will you like to move in?

      10)How long are you willing to stay in the property ?

      11) How many months rent can you pay upfront? Minimum ( 1month +
      SECURITY DEPOSIT )
      or ( 2 months + SECURITY DEPOSIT ), so which option
      do you prefer ???

      12)Earliest possible date of deposit?

      Notice: Call me or send me a text message by filling out the application immediately. I hope to hear from you with all these details so that we can have our file in case you send the receipt and we contact you.

      Call +1 (717) 447-8018

      Thank you and may God bless you.
      William D Martins

      1. Murenne

        I got the same email from William J Martins for a property in Miami, FL… unfortunately William J. Martins passed away in 2019 I believe and did live in Pennsylvania. So, the scammer may want to retire that name. He replied to me from Realtors.com… I need to find a way to report him.

  60. Sarah

    I’m trying to figure out how to confirm if this guy is real or not, because he sent a photo of himself and passport… Didn’t ask for any information from me, but the issue is that he’s subletting and “out of town.” This one is almost believable. The huge red flag is that he can’t even have a friend or building staff show me the place.

    1. slfisher

      I’m having the same situation. She sent me a photo of her driver’s license, but she’s on vacation “until March or May” and the landlord is out of state for work until the end of the year so nobody can show me the place.

  61. Ashley Anne Ganton

    I got “Approved” I knew it was fishy from start but I did answer questionare first thing I noticed was email address was homesshow@aol.com I seen someone else said they were getting CA and I noticed the email had two ss in it as well.. I’m in WA. The guy on phone sounded Hispanic yet the email was written in perfect English.

    Hello,

    I received your inquiry about my property for rent at , Auburn, WA 98002. My name is James Collins, My family and I just moved down to Dallas(TX) due to my job Development Program(Intern Development Program (IDP) , the Architectural Experience Program (AXP) is a comprehensive training program created to ensure that candidates pursuing licensure in the architecture profession gain the knowledge and skills required for the independent practice of architecture. The program is developed, maintained, and administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and is required by most U.S. architectural registration boards to satisfy experience requirements for licensure.), we will be here for 3 to 4 years. My initial plan was to sell the house but I find it difficult to let go this adorable home, I have decided to rent my home to a responsible tenant who is willing to take very good care of it in our absence. Pets are allowed as long as they are not destructive. The rent is $985 and security deposit is $715 and total move-in cost is $1700 and all the utilities are included in the monthly rent,as i am in a governmental programmer that sponsors my utilities on monthly basis and pets are also allowed. You can kindly text or call me at (469) 415-5579

    You can drive-by to view the outside and neighborhood of the house and get back to me with the rental questionnaire filled out.

    General house description:
    Bedroom: 2
    Bathroom: 1

    Below are some questions I need you to answer so we can discuss further. You can only drive by the property for now to check the outside and the neighborhood, it is available for a long lease. Get back to me for further discussion on how to get the keys and paperwork of the property to you if I find you suitable and decide to rent the property to you..

    RENT QUESTIONNAIRE

    Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : ______?
    Phone numbers (home,cell and office line ) # :__________?
    Marital Status:__________?
    How many proposed occupants :__________?
    List all in addition to yourself including approx age :__________?
    Present Address :__________?
    Will you have pets :__________?
    Please describe Breed, size :__________?
    Personality of pet :__________?
    When do you plan to move in, please write exact date?
    Intended length of lease:__________?
    Do you agree to pay the payment before you move in:__________?
    If you are ask to make a down payment to secure the house today and take it off market, How much will you be able to pay:__________?
    Length of previous tenancy :__________?
    Present occupation :__________?
    Are you a section 8 applicant
    Do you work late night :__________?
    Do you smoke :__________?
    Do you drink :__________?

    I _______________, Certify that answers given herein are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I authorize investigation of all statements contained in this application for tenant screening as may be necessary in arriving at a tenant decision. I understand that the landlord may terminate any rental agreement entered into for any misrepresentation made above.

    Looking forward to hearing from you with all these details so that I can have it in my file in case of issuing the receipt and contacting you. Await your reply so we can discuss on how to get the document and the key to you.

    N.B: I want you to know that before we left the state,we never had an intention of renting this home until we got down here,should in case we had an intention of renting it we would have put down someone to handle it on our behalf but due to our last experience with a realtor that is why we decided not to have a third party for the rental,as the realtor did something absurd by inflating the price of the home so due to that we had to terminate contract

    Thanks and God bless.

    “Everybody Deserves a Home Both The Rich And The Poor.”

    “Being happy doesn’t mean that everything is perfect. It means that you’ve decided to look beyond the imperfections”
    Live the life you love
    Love the life you have
    Laugh till the very end
    God Bless Everyone.

    Mr James Collins
    Show quoted text

    1. Larissa Bodeker

      Got the same exact email today.

      Hello,

      I received your inquiry about my property for rent at 5722 N Lindeke St, Spokane, WA 99205 . My name is Smarth Christ Joseph, My family and I just moved down to Beatty(NV) due to my job Development Program (Intern Development Program (IDP), the Architectural Experience Program (AXP) is a comprehensive training program created to ensure that candidates pursuing licensure in the architecture profession gain the knowledge and skills required for the independent practice of architecture.The program is developed, maintained,and administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and is required by most U.S. architectural registration boards to satisfy experience requirements for licensure.), we will be here for 3 to 4 years. My initial plan was to sell the house but I find it difficult to let go this adorable home, I have decided to rent my home to a responsible tenant who is willing to take very good care of it in our absence. Pets are allowed as long as they are not destructive. The rent is $900 and security deposit is $700 and total move-in cost is $1600 and all the utilities are included in the monthly rent, as i am in a governmental programmer that sponsors my utilities on monthly basis and pets are also allowed. You can kindly text or call me at (951)-363-4147

      You can drive-by to view the outside and neighborhood of the house and get back to me with the rental questionnaire filled out.

      General house description:
      Bedroom: 2
      Bathroom: 1

      Below are some questions I need you to answer so we can discuss further. You can only drive by the property for now to check the outside and the neighborhood, it is available for a long lease. Get back to me for further discussion on how to get the keys and paperwork of the property to you if I find you suitable and decide to rent the property to you..

      RENT QUESTIONNAIRE

      Name (First name/ Middle name/Surname ) : ______?
      Phone numbers (home,cell and office line ) # :__________?
      Marital Status:__________?
      How many proposed occupants :__________?
      List all in addition to yourself including approx age :__________?
      Present Address :__________?
      Will you have pets :__________?
      Please describe Breed, size :__________?
      Personality of pet :__________?
      When do you plan to move in, please write exact date?
      Intended length of lease:__________?
      Do you agree to pay the payment before you move in:__________?
      If you are ask to make a down payment to secure the house today and take it off market, How much will you be able to pay:__________?
      Length of previous tenancy :__________?
      Present occupation :__________?
      Are you a section 8 applicant
      Do you work late night :__________?
      Do you smoke :__________?
      Do you drink :__________?

      I _______________, Certify that answers given herein are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I authorize investigation of all statements contained in this application for tenant screening as may be necessary in arriving at a tenant decision. I understand that the landlord may terminate any rental agreement entered into for any misrepresentation made above.

      Looking forward to hearing from you with all these details so that I can have it in my file in case of issuing the receipt and contacting you. Await your reply so we can discuss on how to get the document and the key to you.

      N.B: I want you to know that before we left the state, we never had an intention of renting this home until we got down here, should in case we had an intention of renting it we would have put down someone to handle it on our behalf but due to our last experience with a realtor that is why we decided not to have a third party for the rental, as the realtor did something absurd by inflating the price of the home so due to that we had to terminate contract

      Thanks and God bless.

      “Everybody Deserves a Home Both The Rich And The Poor.”

      “Being happy doesn’t mean that everything is perfect. It means that you’ve decided to look beyond the imperfections”
      Live the life you love
      Love the life you have
      Laugh till the very end
      God Bless Everyone.

      Mr Smarth Christ Joseph

  62. Jane

    This is his email:

    Thanks for your interest and inquiries about my house. Yes the house is still available for rent and we are looking for a responsible person/family to occupy and maintain the house now that we are not around. Myself and Wife just traveled to UNTIED STATE OF AMERICA DID TO MY (JOB TRANSFER)

    We will be away for 2 years or more that is why I have made up my mind to put up my house for rent to whomever that will take good care of it. However, my initial plan was to sell the house but it was not successful because the Realtor raised the price which made it difficult for me to sell before leaving the States so never mind if you see the for sale sign in front of the house, It has already been taken off the market as for sale so there is no need to contact any Realtor. Please note than you will only be able to drive by the house for now but not have a look at the interior until i have sent the keys and documents of the house to you..

    FEATURES : Laundry, Electric Range, Electric Heat, Master Bedroom, Playground, Car Park.AMENITIES: Air Conditioning, Patio/Party Deck, Cable TV, Ceiling Fans, 24 hours Internet service, Dishwasher, Fireplace, Garbage Disposal, Microwave, security alarm, Pets Friendly, Refrigerator, Washer / Dryer.

    Rental Price: $1000 per month and security Deposit is $1000… Total move in cost $2000 (Security Deposit is Refundable) Utilities included in monthly rent. Pets are Welcome. Below is the address to the house: (90 Oaklands Cres Red Deer, AB, T4P 0C4) You can call or text me on (850) 312-8013.

    Please if you are ready now to occupy the house kindly provide the information below for record purpose

    ********RENT APPLICATION FORM*******
    ********PRIVATE & CONFIDENTIAL********

    Full Name__________________________________________________ Home Phone ( ) ________________________

    Date of Birth_________________________________

    Other Phone ( ) ___________________

    Current Address_______________________________Apt#________ City__________________ State______ Zip________

    Reasons for Leaving____________________________Rent $__________Phone ( ) ____________________________

    Married/Single__________________________

    How old are you __________________________

    How many people will be living in the house____________________________

    Do you have a pet____________________________

    Do you have a car____________________________

    Do you work late night : __________
    Do you smoke : __________

    Do you drink : __________

    Occupation____________________________

    How soon can you have the deposit payment sent to me_________

    How soon do you want to receive the keys________________

    Move In Date_____________

    How much can you put down to hold the house if you can’t move in ASAP__________?

    Reference
    Name:
    Address:
    Telephone Number:
    Relationship:

    I hereby represent that all of the above information is true, accurate and complete, and hereby of the authorize verification over items, including but not limited to the obtaining of a credit report/and or recovery of monetary claims, and agree to furnish additional credit references on request.

    DATE………… APPLICANT SIGNATURE/NAME…………….

    Remain Blessed
    Mr Daniel Morrison

  63. Maribel

    I cannot believe I got scammed. I am desperately looking for a home .. and I fell for it. As we are getting married soon and was desperately looking. I lost a total of 3,750. I’m depressed about it. Today is the date we were supposed to move in by and he never sent the keys. His name is Jian Cong Qiu. Is from CA but supposedly moved to MI and is a researcher. The address he placed was 1824 Volendam Ave Modesto Ca. I can’t believe I fell for it. He took advantage of the fact I am in desperate need of a home. I deposited a cashiers Check to a man named James Hebo apparently his cousin. At Chase Bank.

  64. Samantha

    This is what I got today in response to a Craigslist Rental.

    Thank you for show your interest in Rent To Everyone. Your response property is available now. You need to first complete the application to view this house. Go to our official site renttoeveryone.com and complete your application with application fee $49 refundable. After complete your application we need 3 hour to review your application. You need to pay the 1st month rent in advance for security deposit purpose, good credits history is not mandatory to rent our property and it’s a pets welcome house. You can also use your registered email ID and password to member logging page (with our approval) to see our more property. Facing any type of problem or need any help please email info@renttoeveryone.com or call (213) 437-3257 (customer service) 24/7 days

  65. Lindsay N Martinez

    I received a rather lengthy one the other from the email address propertyowner666335@outlook.com. Seems legit 😂

    Hello Tenant

    Thanks for your email, I personally own the house, I want my property to be well taken good care of, and there are some rules and regulation in which I do give out to tenant willing to rent my house so please don’t disrespect my order But if you are still capable of renting my house the rules and regulation goes this way. You must keep my house clean including the surrounding, you must know the way in which you use the stove so as to avoid fire outbreak,you must not disturb the neighbor.I decided to rent out the property due to our transfer to (QUEENS, NEW YORK) on a Missionary Work in a church here named World Mission, so we are renting it out since we need someone to take good care of the property on our absent.

    Don’t be surprise if you find the home with another site and deference price, I have plan to rent it through Real estate before, but they are not serious simply because they have a lot of house to lease out And they added some money to the rent while there commission is not fair. Have this in mind you must know the kind of person that I’m nevertheless I am giving you this rules because of what corresponded between me and my last tenant. the keys and documents are with us here in (QUEENS, NEW YORK)… So I will need to ship them to you before you can occupy the house But you can drive by the house anytime to take a look at the area and surrounding, You can also peek through the windows if you don’t mind.For now we are looking for 3 or 4 years lease or rather lets us know how long you wish to stay.

    Attn : The rent are including the Utilities are intact such as Dishwasher,Dryer, Electric Stove, Fridge, Washer,Air Condition,Sewage,Trash, Other amenities include ; large eat-in kitchen with refrigerator, gas stove/oven, and microwave oven; spacious living room with fireplace; deck; laundry room off kitchen with washer & dryer; and cable/internet ready.Hi-efficiency gas heat & electric hot water, city water.all included in the monthly rent,as i am in a governmental programmer that sponsors my utilities on monthly basis etc.

    Please note that, we are a kind and honest family,that spent a lot on property that is available for rent, so in one accord,we are soliciting for your absolute maintenance of this house and want you to treat it as your own.We want you to keep it tidy all the time so that we shall be glad to see it whenever we are around on a visit.

    SO IF YOU ARE REALLY INTERESTED I WILL WANT YOU TO FILL THE RENTAL APPLICATION FORMS BELOW

    RENT APPLICATION FORM AND TELL US MORE ABOUT YOU .

    1) Your Full Name
    2A) Home Phone ?
    2B) Cell Phone Number ?
    3) Your Full Address :
    4) How old are you?
    5a) Are you married?
    5b) How many people will be living in the house?
    6a) Do you have a pet?
    6b) What type
    7a) Do you have a car?
    7b) What type?
    8) Occupation?
    9) Do you smoke?
    10) Do you Drink ?
    11) Do you work at Night ?
    12) What is your monthly income?
    13) Reference Contact Name and Address?
    14) When do you intend Moving in?
    15) Private email :
    16 ) Picture of you and your family?
    17) When can you pay for your deposit to
    secure or move in?

    Notice : Text me immediately you fill out the application
    Looking forward to hear from you with all this details so that we can have it our file in case of issuing the receipt for you and contacting you..
    Await your prompt reply so that we can discuss on the rental terms and agreement, please we are renting the house to you base on trust and again i will want you to stick to your words.So please do not let us down in maintaining this our property and God bless you more as you do this.

    PROPERTY DESCRIPTION………..

    Number of Bedrooms:3
    Number of baths:1
    Square footage:952
    Pets are welcome!!!
    Rent:$700
    Refundable security Deposit:$700
    House Address: 8939 Eden Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63123
    My Cell Phone Number: (660) 236-8404
    Thanks and God bless you.

    Reverend Thomas Kwasniak & Family

  66. Seth Beebe

    Unfortunately these ads seem to be in every craigslist market in the country and I assume other rental postings also. We have been looking for a rental for over a month now and sorting through the scammers is almost becoming a second job. We are in Alaska and I have rooted out two scammers already and its to the point I have become suspicious of everything. So I thought I would post how I avoided becoming a victim so others will not be victims, I hated reading stories where people were actually conned. So the red flags in my case is that each one originally would communicate by email or text. When they told me about “their” property I did two things 1. asked them for their name and 2. asked them if they would meet me at the property and show it to me. In Alaska property owner information is posted on government web sites. You can type in the persons name and it will show you the property owner, or you can type in the address and it will show you the owners name. Once they gave me their names I checked the property ownership and found that they didn’t own the property. On both occasions they said they left the state due to the COVID-19 isolation requirements, which makes absolutely no sense, and that they had no way of showing it. I actually got one to call me and he had a strong latino accent but had an English name, this in and of itself should be enough to raise flags. However, I went ahead and told him that I looked up the property owners name and asked him to tell me who the property owner was. He could not but tried to tell me that he purchased it and needed someone to take possession of it. The more of his story that I countered the more he lied and it became obvious the guy was a fraud. I then reported the encounter along with phone numbers, emails, and city locations that i could gather to the Federal Trade Commission, that complain is forwarded to the FBI and local police by the FTC and since I am retired military it is also forwarded to military authorities on JBER. The second guy started off the same way so I went through the same process. I’m still trying to get the guy call me. When I do I will repeat the same steps. I feel like I should do everything I can to expose these jerks so I can help others not be scammed. If everyone does the same thing we can shut these guys down. Just take precautions when looking for rentals.

    1. Check for the property owner
    2. is the price too good to be true, do they offer full utility payments, etc in places where that is not typical.
    3. Demand to be shown the property, do not take no for an answer, no showing no deal.
    4. Talk to them in person and ask for their references also.
    5. Never wire money to anyone that you do not personally know for any reason.
    6. Are they using a local number or an out of state number. Be suspicious if they are using an out of state number and ask for a local office number or someway to contact them locally.
    7. Look for the same ad with different photos or look for the same photo with a different ad.
    8. Another way to find out is by street address Vs lot address. If they tell you the house is 6700 Street Name, and it is actually 6690 then that is also a sign. Lot numbers don’t always line up with street numbers.

    I’m sure others have experiences also. Please share and please report these guys even if you do catch them. Good luck!

  67. Ashish Garg

    Hi
    I received an email from this guy oliverellefsen@corporate-exxonmobil-thunderhorse.com who claims to have a house in Sunnyvale, CA but is going on 2 yr extended onsite work duty to the Exxon mobil thunderhorse field. Not sure if he is a scammer but he now has my cell number and email id. Should I be concerned?

  68. Franklin White

    Thanks for the tip to make sure that the person you are getting the rental from is the owner of the apartment. My fiance and I are looking for a place to live once we are married. We’ll be sure to double-check the background of every place we look at to make sure the person showing us around is legit.

  69. JD

    It appears that there are a couple of things to note in this email…
    – The property was last sold last year, so the situation they’re describing looks unlikely.
    – They’re using a standard template and (sloppily) filling in things like location (in this case, “(NEVADA)”).
    – They’re plugging in information from legitimate organizations (in this case, ASCE) to make it seem more legit. I’m not a civil engineer, but I belong to similar professional organizations in my field and after reviewing ASCE’s website, it seems unlikely that they’d fund a contract project. It’s more the kind of organization meant for networking and information, rather than “contract projects”. If you’re unsure, you could always ask them to describe their work. You could also ask the organization (ASCE, for example) to verify their membership. Because I couldn’t find any information about the name they were using online (beyond an obituary from a few years ago), I didn’t really have to go any further before assuming it’s a scam.
    – They’re using information pulled directly from its last sale listing, and they don’t include pictures or descriptions beyond what is publicly available on the house listing from its last sale.

    Here’s the email…

    Thanks for your interest & property is still available for rent. I want a responsible person or family who are neat and also believe that they have all what it takes to take care of the property as if it where there own. Please be informed that I’m renting out the property because I was transferred to (NEVADA) with my lovely family on contract project by American Society of Civil Engineers. (http://www.asce.org/).

    American Society of Civil Engineers | ASCE
    http://www.asce.org
    ASCE Foundation. Making a positive change in our communities is possible… but only if we start now, set our sights high, and work together. Your Foundation!

    We wanted to sell the property since we will be staying longer than we though & later my wife advised me not to sell the property anymore. I reasoned with her and accepted her advice so we contacted the agent back and requested for our keys and documents and put it for rent since we will back in the next 4 to 5 years.

    We would have given the same agent this job also but the truth of the matter is that the agent was asking too much of an agent fee and also made the rent high. We were not getting the responses we needed so i decided to terminated our contract with them and put it up for rent ourselves. If you notice, you will discover that the price we are offering is far below standard price and this is enough for you to know that we are not after the rental fee but the absolute care for the property. The house is available for as long as you want,which include utilities such as Air Conditioner Dishwasher Walk-in Closet Refrigerator Vaulted Ceilings Washer/Dryer Cable etc.

    House address: 9214 Flower Ave Silver Spring, MD 2090

    Monthly rent :$900

    Refundable Deposit: $900

    Bedroom: 3

    Bathroom: 2

    All utilities are include in the rent.

    APPLICATION FORM….

    1)Your Full Name________________________
    2)Current Address_______________________ __
    3)Phone Number (____)Best time to reach you ?
    4)State________________
    5)City__________________
    6) Zip______________
    7)Are you married______________________
    8)Do you have Kids__________
    9)Do you have a pet______________
    10)Do you have a car______________________
    11)Occupation______________
    12)How many people will be living in the house___________
    13)A picture of occupant_________________
    14)How long lease are you looking for______________
    15)How soon do you intend moving in________________
    16)Date of Birth________________
    17)Numbers of Cars________________
    18)If you are ask to make a down payment to secure the house today and take it off market, How much will you be able to pay ____________
    19)How soon can you make the Rent/Deposit payment________________
    20)How soon do you want to receive the keys/documents________________
    ============================= = ============== =========
    Application Comment
    ============================== ============== =========

    Please make sure this questions are filled correctly because the best way you answer with your comment will impress me the more to accept your application.

    Regards……

  70. K Mortenson

    Got one in Waco, TX…

    Thanks for your interest in my property at 2905 Morrow Ave Waco, TX 76707 consisting of 2 bedrooms and 1 bathrooms there’s also an attached Garage the rent is $750 and deposit is $750 so total move in cost it $1500….My name is Mr Thomas Benson and am a native of Waco, TX i inherited this property from my late father whom i made a promise to take good care of it…My family and i have lived there for long and we have been taking good are of it but unfortunately my wife had cancer and we took her to various hospitals here but no changes so i had to transfer her here in (GEORGIA) for treatment because i cannot afford to loose her and my baby cause she’s pregnant so the doctor says she will be fine so she’s under the intensive care unit but the treatment will commence in 8 months and we have to look for money to start the treatment, my wife advised me to rent out my property since we will be staying here for long, i went with the advise and decided to rent it out and it is also available for rent to own depending on how good the applicant is, i initially had it up for sale but had a change of mind in leasing it out ourselves because the agent that was in charge of our rental property was asking too much of an agent fee and also making it difficult for people who cannot afford the rent.

    NOTE THAT: Applicants can only drive by the property for now because it’s currently locked up for security reasons and the keys and documents are here wit me due to i have no one to entrust the keys and documents to so if you are interested i will like you to fill out the rental application form below i can be reached at (678) 413-5347.

    RENT APPLICATION FORM AND TELL US MORE ABOUT YOU

    Applicants Full Name……….

    Applicants Cell phone No?………..

    Applicants Home Phone No?…………

    Applicants Address?……………..

    Applicants marital status?……..

    Applicants age?………….

    Applicants Occupation?…………

    Applicants pet policy?……………

    Applicants Assets?…………….

    Number of Applicants?………

    Do You smoke?………..

    Do you drink?…………

    Do you work late night?…………

    How soon do you want to move in?…………….

    How many months/year Lease?………………

    How soon do you want to receive the keys?…………..

    DO YOU HAVE DEPOSIT TO SECURE NOW?……….

    How soon can you come up with the security deposit of the property,and how many months upfront can you pay?……..

    Please feel free to ask any questions you do not understand and I will be looking forward to receiving your email as soon as possible with all these details…

    Bless You.

    Thomas Benson & Family.

    1. Perez

      There’s a bunch in the waco CL 🙁

    2. REB

      I just received the exact application, with the exact story, with the exact rent and house description, from a Gus Confalone. Sounded too good to be true, so I did my research. Zumper had removed the listing for possible fraudulent purposes.

  71. Latonia Stevenson

    July 3rd, 2020
    I’ve just had this same experience and I am ANGRY!
    Fortunately, I didn’t send any money. They even asked for a picture of the people who would be moving in. I didn’t send that either, but did complete the application with my name and my son’s name. WHAT HAVE I DONE?!!!😡The house was listed in East Orange, NJ at 36 Long Street. Beware in New Jersey

    1. Pam A

      Yes wanted my SS# and a picture of my family. So pissed. I did give name, phone, email and birthdate (and my dog’s name! Luckily not the dog I use for occasional passwords!) so now I am worried I will be victim of ID theft! Mine was in a small town in Wisconsin. I wonder if they just go on every cities CL and post.

  72. Maggie Ramey

    Just received this reply from who clearly appears to be a scammer. Common threads seem to be the insistence that working with a realtor is bad lmao. Posting in case anyone else gets a similar one.

    “Thanks for the email, I will try as much as possible to explain part of the requirement needed to rent the house, so please take your time to read to avoid addressing the same issue over again.

    this property is private owned and the house is mine , My name is KOPICKI,BARBARA, i work as a confidential researcher and i work 3 months on job and 1 month off , usage of phone is prohibited and calls are totally not allowed while working, but if it’s important i can reply your text whenever i have access to the phone and will also try as much as possible to call you whenever i am free to do so .i am renting out the house as a result of my new job here in MI and i am looking for a tenant who will take proper care of my house as if he/she owns it.

    I decided to put the house on craigslist personally after i realized the realtor i was working with inflated the rent and making it difficult to get a tenant all because he was greedy and wanted more money off my property, I already took the property off him and i already ordered the removal of his posted adverts and the sign in front of the house, which i am sure will be done very soon. NO REALTOR IS INVOLVED WITH THIS RENTAL.
    If you are looking for a “rent to own” option , a 10% refundable option fee is required and this will strictly be a lease option which means if you decide to move out and not buy the house after your lease expires, you get back your option fee.. Option fee and all monthly rent paid also goes towards the total cost of the house whenever you are ready to close.

    First month, last month ,security deposit and pet deposit is required once application gets approved and lease agreement is signed. The house has a washer and dryer with hookups , interior is clean and kitchen is well equipped , home is in 100% perfect condition.

    THE ADDRESS OF THE PROPERTY IS :

    Renting out the house for 1300$ (utilities included are ; water, gas, electricity, and garbage only). A security deposit of 1300$ (refundable) , 300$ per pet.
    kindly respond by telling me more about yourself and also let me know if you want to rent only , or rent to own.

    FOR THOSE WHO ARE CAPABLE OF PAYING OUTRIGHT FOR A WHOLE YEAR, YOU HAVE BETTER ADVANTAGE OF GETTING THE HOUSE.

    thanks “

  73. Anna

    I was just about to send my security deposit. But, I noticed that the cash app name was fishy. I also said let me look up the number. Then some escort site showed up. So I really got to thinking Ummmm. Then I searched Craigslist Rental Scams. They really had me believing it was them because I asked my realtor to look up there name. Soooo sad. Was packing and everything. Disgusting.

  74. Carol

    Short and sweet

    19737562561 and 7865458081

    Advertising property in Kissimmee:

    973 756 2561 is a definite scam. He was insisting I send my credit card and license information through an app called Rently. He got upset when I refused.

    Foreign accent claiming to be James.

    Other sent me a link.

    1. Derek

      Thank you Carol I was just speaking with him haha he’s offer was to good and oh it felt good when I called him on he’s scam! Thank you thank you!

  75. Dan

    I am dealing with a scammer now out of Everett WA. Beautiful 3bd 2bath clean home for 1200/mo seems reasonable until they said it includes the utilities. Foreign accent sounds east Indian and said his wife has cancer so they had to move to Virginia and can’t show the place but once I send them 2600$ they will send me the keys they even made up a rental contract. The biggest red flag is there demanding money or securing the property as he kept wording it. Also how the guy acts like its no big deal for me to send thousands of dollars with no way of proving he is the home owner what so ever. This is complete crap