In today's world of technology you can do almost anything while sitting in front of your computer. This can be good and bad! The last few days have proven the phrase 'Sounds too good to be true, it probably isn't!' to be very true.
One of my listings was posted on Craig's list as a rental last weekend, which created a huge buzz. At first I thought the situation could prove to be helpful, draw people to the home let them see how nice it is and maybe consider buying instead of renting. Not the case because the monthly rent offered for the lovely home at 16 Glenwood Rd, Ellington with 2286sf listing with four bedrooms and three full bathrooms was a mere $1,000/month. The price was too good to be true, making the situation pretty annoying for us all. The owner actually had people stop by their home, during a birthday party no less and my phone rang off the hook. I wish I could have sold the home or converted a few of these callers but it was tough.
Technology today when used right can be a wonderful thing; it's just too bad that it is abused. The scammer who posted the rental listing on Craig’s list was good he set up an email address in the name of the owners husband (not the legal owner though) and actually communicated back and worthwith consumers inquiring about the house. A couple of the consumers actually sent me their email communications in the event the owner wanted to pursue with the local police. I was actually amazed at some of the communication but consumers are getting wiser and checking things out first. You just have to stop and think 'Sounds too good to be true, it probably isn't!'
Here is just a taste of this scammer’s communication, "Thanks very much for your reply and also I can see your willingness in my house. I have decided to let you live in my house. The house is available now, you have to provide the security deposit of $700 to hold the house for you till 1st June 2012, and also we will send the keys and document of the house to you via FedEx to the address you send to me and the tracking number will be sent to you. Please once again, we are giving you this on trust and do not disappoint us, and I promise you that you will love the house...."
Sounded good enough but this consumer got wise and asked a few more questions; 'We would like to know if you have references that we could contact? I am not willing to send any money to anyone until we know that this is legitimate. Also, we would like to see inside the house. Is there a neighbor or anyone else that could give us your reference? I hope you realize why we are reluctant. We have looked at many properties and I have to say that $1000 a month is extremely cheap and I can't help but feel that it could be a scam. What about the furniture inside the home? I hope you are not offeneded by our questioning this but it sounds too good to be true."
I was glad consumers called and emailed me, I thought it was the best thing. We all want to get a deal today but check those deals out. Craig’s List reputation is not the best even though I have heard of people actually finding and selling things legitimately you just have to do your homework. If it's a house, call the listing agent they will definitely know if the owner is looking to rent the home. And always remember if it 'Sounds too good to be true, it probably isn't!'
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