The Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning about a real estate scam circulating on social media after MCSO received several complaints about the scam.
According to the sheriff’s office, “scammers take photos of legitimate real estate companies listing rental properties or rental properties and advertise them at low rates.”
Social media is a common place for real estate fraud, including fake rental listings, bait-and-switch scams, and incomplete rental agreements.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, MCSO advises people to be wary of fake listings.
“Scammers may post fake rental properties on social media platforms such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. They may require a deposit or background check fee before showing the property,” Sheriff’s Office said. The place was explained. “Never pay money before seeing a property. Be wary of incomplete leases. Scammers will trick you into signing an incomplete lease or verbally agreeing to lease terms. Most states require a separate addendum signed by both parties.
MCSO also advises people to be suspicious of bait-and-switch scams.
“Scammers may promote attractive opportunities to encourage people to register, only to be told there is a problem with the listing,” the sheriff’s office said.
Finally, we advise you to be aware of the red flags when it comes to listing your property.
“Red flags for real estate fraud on social media include profiles with few details or no personal photos, recently created accounts, refusing to provide information to your credit report, and people not showing you homes before viewing them. “These include refusing to verify their identity with ID and simply asking to see the home. Contacting them via text message on Facebook Messenger,” MCSO said.
As always, if you believe you have been scammed, please contact the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office immediately at 434-738-6171.
