How to avoid a rental scam!

The stories are out there. Tenants who found a rental listing online, met the “owner” at the property, gave them rent and a security deposit and then never heard from them again. Rather, they found themselves in the middle of eviction proceedings by a property manager or the real owner of the property. The stories are sad to see and hear about.

So, what can a tenant do to protect themselves? Here are 3 basic things:

1. Be weary of someone who says that your credit or rental history don’t matter and are willing to lease the home to you. A quick move in, without obtaining an application with your information, especially when it involves a privately owned home may be a sign that something isn’t right. Be weary! The individual you are working with may not be the owner or in any way connected to the rental of the property. Do your homework. Check the Clark County Assessors website to see who the owner of record is and verify the information.

2. Read the lease! Does it include pertinent information, such as the security deposit, monthly rent, where to pay rent, owners legal name as listed in official property records and in other ways comply with Nevada Statutes.

3. Try and use a Realtor. A Realtor will have access to the MLS where properties are listed through real estate agencies or property management companies. This way, you can have a more reputable way of searching for your future home.

Make home hunting more exciting by being safe and savvy.

Contributed by Nicklin Property Management.