With an increase in rental scams across Monterey County, both residents and visitors are at risk of being tricked out of their money when looking for housing. The Monterey County District Attorney’s Office has issued a warning to help renters stay safe. Scammers use sophisticated tricks to fool people, often leaving victims out of thousands of dollars and without a place to live. Here’s a breakdown of how these scams work, what signs to watch out for, and how to protect yourself when looking for a rental property.
How Rental Scams Are Carried Out in Monterey
In most cases, the scam begins with a scammer posing as the owner or a representative from a rental company. The scammer may create a false sense of security, leading the victim to believe they are dealing with a legitimate landlord or property manager. The scammer often requests standard payments such as the first and last month’s rent, plus a security deposit. Victims only realize they’ve been scammed once the money is paid, and they discover the rental was never available. This leaves them without a home and out of pocket by hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Scammers Use Real Listings to Look Legitimate
To make their scams more believable, these fraudsters often copy details from genuine rental listings that have already been posted by legitimate property owners. They may take photos, descriptions, and even rental prices from existing listings and use them to create their own fake rental ads. These ads appear on popular websites and social media platforms that people commonly use to search for rental properties. Some scammers even go as far as sending an application form, lease agreement, or request for a processing fee, which may include a credit check. These extra steps are meant to make the rental offer seem as legitimate as possible and fool renters into thinking they are securing a real property.
Tips for Protecting Yourself from Rental Scams
The Monterey County District Attorney’s Office suggests that renters take additional steps to ensure they are not being scammed. Here are some important precautions to consider:
- Verify the Property’s Status: When possible, reach out directly to the property management company or the owner to confirm that the property is actually up for rent. Avoid relying solely on the information given by the person advertising the rental.
- Talk to Current Residents or Neighbors: If you visit the property, try to speak with neighbors or current residents. They may be able to tell you if the property is genuinely available or if they’ve noticed suspicious activity around it.
- Look for Physical Signs: Many landlords place a rental sign outside the property with a contact number. If there isn’t one, it could be a red flag. Call the listed number if there is a sign, as it can lead you to the real landlord or leasing office.
- Do Your Own Research: Before committing to any payment, look up the property’s address online and verify the listing from multiple sources. Sometimes, scammers repost listings with slight changes in the rental details, so cross-checking can help identify inconsistencies.
- Avoid Paying for Unseen Properties: Be very cautious if the person offering the property cannot meet in person or give you a tour of the home. If the landlord has an excuse for why they can’t show the property themselves, like being out of town or sick, this could be a warning sign.
Red Flags and “Too Good to Be True” Deals
Rental listings with unusually low prices or a promise of quick approvals with minimal background checks should be treated with caution. Scammers often lure people with attractive deals that seem better than other rentals in the area. If the deal feels “too good to be true,” it usually is. Additionally, be cautious of landlords who are unwilling to answer questions or provide complete information about the property. Limited communication, urgency in demanding payments, or refusal to show the property are all signs of a potential scam.
Legal Actions Against Scammers in Monterey
The Monterey County District Attorney’s Office takes these scams very seriously and is committed to pursuing those who commit rental fraud. Scammers who engage in these fraudulent activities can face serious criminal charges, including felony theft. The DA’s office has stated it will continue to investigate and prosecute these cases to protect the community. They encourage anyone who has fallen victim to these scams or has information on suspicious rental activity to contact their office.
Rental scams can be devastating, but by staying vigilant, renters can protect themselves from fraud. Knowing what red flags to look for and verifying details before making payments can make all the difference. Remember, legitimate landlords and property managers will typically be open to showing you the property, answering your questions, and providing a clear rental process. Stay safe and cautious, and don’t let scammers take advantage of your search for a new home in Monterey County.
