Don't send that deposit check! New and experienced renters alike are often victims to rental listing scams. It happens like this: you search online for that perfect rental. You find it and contact the manager/owner about renting. They message you back and tell you to email all your personal info for an "application" or ask you to mail them a deposit check with certified funds. Next thing you know, they have your money and you have no keys.
When searching for rentals online, it is very easier for scammers to steal pictures and details about a house to create their own rental listings. If in doubt, you can check county land records to confirm who the actual owner is, or check state/city records to make sure the business is registered. Don't give personal details like social security numbers over an email. Don't send in money to sources you can't be sure of. Always try to see the property. If they can let you in, they are probably legit. And if it sounds too good to be true...it probably is.
