SCAM ALERT: Check Your Vacant Listings
The Arizona real estate local MLS has issue an alert for listing agents in regards to scam that may be going on in the valley. I believe that is a valid warning to be pass on to others as well.
A recent scam involves tenants moving into a pending short sale listing. The surprised listing agent contacted the owner who had not rented the property to anyone. The tenants (two women with two children) were physically moving in and had turned on utilities in their name. The sign and the lock box were removed, and all locks were re-keyed.
The tenants responded to a FOR RENT sign in the yard. They gave someone $1,800 as rent and signed a lease. While the short sale was able to close, the unfortunate victims of this scam were out $1,800 with no place to live.
This down economy encourages some people to take advantage of others. Listing agents should check their vacant listings regularly and provide neighbors their contact information in case they observe any suspicious activity.
Source: ARMLScommunication@ARMLS.com
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