Looking for a home to rent? Make sure it’s not a scam, Wichita police say
If you’re scouring Facebook marketplace or real estate sites for a home to rent, be wary. The listings could be a scam.
Wichita police warned the public this week about an increase in rental scams involving area homes that are currently listed for sale.
Police say the scammers steal photos and information from legitimate real estate sale listings and then use them to create fake ones posting the homes for rent. The bogus listings show up on sites like Facebook Marketplace and other platforms.
“In many cases the individual claims to be the owner or property manager and asks for application fees or deposits before allowing a showing,” police said on Facebook.
“They request payment in gift cards or by cash apps, which is a major red flag.”
Wichita police say prospective renters should take steps to protect themselves, including:
- Never sending money before seeing a property and meeting with the person listing the property in person
- Never paying fees using gift cards, wire transfers or money services like Cash App
- Being mindful that if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is
- Using public records or a licensed real estate agent to verify who owns or manages the property
- Asking the listing agent whether homes listed for sale are also available for rent, and
- Walking away if anything seems suspicious
If you see a rental scam or have been contacted by a scammer, you can report it to the Wichita Police Department by calling or visiting any police substation, calling the case desk at 316-268-4221 or calling 911.
“Stay alert and stay safe,” police said.
