As the housing market in Arizona continues to make homeownership difficult for many, an increasing number of consumers are turning to rental properties. However, this shift has brought about a rise in rental scams. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes is cautioning residents to remain vigilant against these fraudulent activities.
Scammers are employing tactics such as creating fake listings or duplicating legitimate ones, deceiving individuals into making payments before viewing the property. Additionally, they may attempt to gather personal and banking information with the intent of identity theft.
“Housing is a basic human need and, unfortunately, some fraudsters prey upon that need to take advantage of hardworking Arizonans simply trying to find a place to live,” states Attorney General Mayes. She emphasizes caution when sharing financial and personally identifying information during the home search process.
To help consumers navigate these challenges, AG Mayes provides several tips:
- Be wary of rental prices significantly below market value.
- Verify that a property is not listed for sale elsewhere by checking online.
- Physically visit the property to confirm its existence.
- Avoid dealing with entities unreachable by phone during regular hours or those requesting communication solely via text.
- Be cautious of requests for overseas payments or funds sent through wire transfers, gift cards, or peer-to-peer payment apps.
- Approach companies charging upfront fees beyond standard application and credit check costs with skepticism.
- Guard your social security number and bank account details from premature disclosure.
After inspecting a rental property, further recommendations include ensuring all descriptions match advertisements and agreements, confirming all fees are detailed in the lease agreement, understanding lease terms fully before signing anything without blanks, withholding security deposits until receiving a signed lease copy.
For those suspecting consumer fraud victimization, complaints can be filed on the Attorney General’s website. Forms can also be requested by contacting their offices in Phoenix at (602) 542-5763, Tucson at (520) 628-6648, or toll-free outside these metro areas at (800) 352-8431.