MAAR has been made aware of a rental scam targeting prospective renters.
Scammers are advertising properties for rent and asking potential renters to pay a fee to schedule a showing. In one reported instance, the scammers used a legitimate rental property address and a fraudulent business card to appear legitimate.
Please be cautious if you or your clients encounter:
- Requests for payment before viewing a rental property.
- Fees to schedule or access a property showing.
- Rental listings that seem unusually priced or have limited property information.
- Individuals using a real estate professional's name, branding or business card without authorization.
If you encounter a suspected rental scam: Do not send money or personal information. Verify the listing and the identity of the person advertising the property through trusted sources, including FOREWARN, which is an included tool as part of your MAAR's membership. If you suspect REALTOR®'s name or credentials are being misused, notify the REALTOR® and/or their brokerage immediately and report the incident to the appropriate authorities.
Remember: A request for money simply to schedule a showing should be treated as a major red flag.