This archive report was first published on 4 November 2019.
As we navigate the world of social media, it's essential to be aware of the potential scams lurking in the shadows. A few years ago, I fell victim to a rental scam, and I'm here to share my story to help you avoid a similar fate.
It started with a beautiful house on social media, complete with all the amenities I desired and located in my preferred area. The owner seemed nice at first, but things took a turn when he asked me to send him half of the rental money before even viewing the property. That's when I knew it was a scam.
Red Flags to Watch Out For ¶
- Ads that seem too good to be true, such as a 2-bedroom house in Lavington for 20,000 KES.
- Requests for payment before viewing the property or signing a contract.
- Ads that appear on multiple platforms with different prices.
- Realtors who block you after receiving payment.
- Impossible rental prices in desirable locations.
By being aware of these red flags, you can avoid falling prey to rental scams on social media.
So, how do you avoid scammers? It's always best to work with a reputable agent who has a good track record. You can also use trusted platforms or pages that have a history of yielding results.
