Each time I book with an online rental company, I know to verify the authenticity of the arrangement.
With VRBO rentals, I talk directly with the management company and/or look up the owner’s last name to see if the address matches up in tax records.
My preference is to work with a local agency. Â They know the home and area, and are accountable for any issues.
My skeptical approach was validated today when I met a prospective tenant who was scammed out of a large sum of money for vacation rentals in Avalon.
The tenant rented 2 separate homes in Avalon via Craig’s List. Â Both are actual homes on the island, however, the property owners do not offer their homes for rent! Â The scammers created fake listings (properties may have been previously for rent, and therefore easy for someone to copy and paste pictures).
A relative of the tenant decided to walk around one of the homes, and encountered the owner. Â When it was determined the situation was a scam, the tenant filed a police report.
In the meantime, family members are scrambling to find replacement properties for their vacation set to start in 2 days. Â Plus the gut punch of more money out of pocket.
Tips to avoid a scam:
1) Book with a local, reputable rental agency. Â Talk to a real person- even if you are able to book online. Â Rental agencies may promote their listings on various online platforms, but booking directly with the agency is typically the most cost effective.
2) Do not wire money. Â Most agencies allow credit card or ACH payments on a tenant portal. Â Or, send a personal check.
Online Vacation Rentals
Each time I book with an online rental company, I know to verify the authenticity of the arrangement.
With VRBO rentals, I talk directly with the management company and/or look up the owner’s last name to see if the address matches up in tax records.
My preference is to work with a local agency. Â They know the home and area, and are accountable for any issues.
My skeptical approach was validated today when I met a prospective tenant who was scammed out of a large sum of money for vacation rentals in Avalon.
The tenant rented 2 separate homes in Avalon via Craig’s List. Â Both are actual homes on the island, however, the property owners do not offer their homes for rent! Â The scammers created fake listings (properties may have been previously for rent, and therefore easy for someone to copy and paste pictures).
A relative of the tenant decided to walk around one of the homes, and encountered the owner. Â When it was determined the situation was a scam, the tenant filed a police report.
In the meantime, family members are scrambling to find replacement properties for their vacation set to start in 2 days. Â Plus the gut punch of more money out of pocket.
Tips to avoid a scam:
1) Book with a local, reputable rental agency. Â Talk to a real person- even if you are able to book online. Â Rental agencies may promote their listings on various online platforms, but booking directly with the agency is typically the most cost effective.
2) Do not wire money. Â Most agencies allow credit card or ACH payments on a tenant portal. Â Or, send a personal check.
Reach out to me to help!