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The housing market is hot, and unfortunately, so are scam artists looking to take advantage of eager renters and buyers. Here's a rundown of the latest tricks to watch out for, so you can steer clear of trouble and find your dream home (or renter) the safe way.

Rental Reds: When "Great Deals" Turn into Big Headaches

• Fake Listings:  Scammers steal real rental ads, then reach out via text or email with a too-good-to-be-true price. They'll pressure you to send a deposit to "secure" the place, but you'll never actually get the keys.  Red flags - Unable to see the property upfront, pressured to send money via money transfer services.
• ​​​​​​​Impersonation Games:  Scammers pretend to be landlords or property managers, often targeting popular listing sites like Zillow. They might even use stolen IDs or documents to seem legit.  Stay alert for:  Requests for personal information or upfront fees before a showing.

Homebuyer Headaches: Watch Out for Phoney Fast Talk

 

• "We Buy Houses Quick" Schemes: These unsolicited messages or calls often target people facing foreclosure or wanting a quick sale. The "catch"? Scammers offer much lower than market value, hoping for a desperate seller. Trust your gut: If it sounds too easy, it probably is.
• Phishing for Info: You receive an email or text claiming to be from a lender or realtor. Clicking a link or attachment can download malware that steals your personal and financial information. Be cautious of: Unsolicited emails or texts with urgent requests for personal details.

Fight Back: Your Best Defense Against Scams

• Never Wire Money! Legitimate landlords and agents won't ask for deposits or fees before a lease signing or official offer.
• See it to Believe It: Insist on seeing the property in person before sending any money or signing anything.
• Do Your Research: Verify the identity of anyone you're dealing with. Real estate agents should be licensed in your state, and reputable landlords can provide references.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect a scam, report it to the platform you encountered it on (e.g., Zillow, Craigslist) and consider filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (https://www.ftc.gov/).

By staying informed and following these tips, you can navigate the real estate market with confidence and avoid falling victim to a scam. Remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.