If you’re trying to find a rental property, be aware that online fraudsters are separating unsuspecting tenants from their money with a highly ingenious Facebook Marketplace scam. 

We’ve received reports that scammers use online marketplaces such as Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace in Australia and overseas, posing as landlords and collecting payments from unsuspecting renters. 

One unfortunate tenant was recently swindled out of $2,000 when she handed over her bond money to a scammer posing as the landlord on Facebook Marketplace. 

The scammer scraped the property details from the online listing on the website of a reputable property manager. On receiving the bond payment, the scammer disappeared into the online ether taking the tenant’s hard-earned cash. 

Considering this story, and if you still feel inclined to try other means for finding a rental home, such as an online marketplace, be aware that pinching information, such as photos and editorial copy from a legitimate online listing, is a common tactic used by online crooks to make their post look trustworthy. However, one significant difference to a legitimate listing will be the minimal contact information provided.

Typically, the scammers won’t offer a phone number preferring to use Messenger or email to conduct negotiations. 

A phone number is essential as this enables you to sound out a “property manager” in person about the features and nuances of the property. A scammer won’t be able to offer much in the way of detail about the characteristics of a property – that is, even if you can pin them down to a phone conversation – or, better still, at a property inspection. 

Other red flags include requests to pay the bond in cash or through platforms such as PayPal. A reputable property manager, such as those employed at Raine & Horne, will provide a legitimate bank account for payments. That said, some swindlers may use new or hacked accounts in an attempt to offer a wafer-thin veneer of legitimacy. 

Other warning signs include posting vague messages, low weekly rents compared to similar properties, and flaky information riddled with spelling errors. 

The best way to avoid online crooks is to apply for a rental through a reputable real estate brand such as Raine & Horne, which has been helping tenants find homes for 140 years.  

Your Raine & Horne Property Manager can answer all your questions about finding a rental property.