Protect yourself from fraudulent rental listings
As the rental market becomes increasingly competitive, scammers have found new ways to exploit unsuspecting individuals. We want to ensure that you’re fully aware of the potential risks and can identify and avoid rental scams. Recently, there has been a surge in fraudulent activity on platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and group pages like "West Auckland Properties for Rent."
Scammers are replicating our genuine listings and advertising them on these sites, attempting to deceive potential renters. To safeguard yourself, it's crucial to know how to identify authentic Rent Shop listings. Genuine Rent Shop properties are only advertised on trusted platforms, specifically Trade Me and Realestate.co.nz. We do not use Facebook Marketplace or Facebook Messenger for communication regarding rental properties. If you see a listing on Facebook, it is likely a scam.
Always check the platform to ensure that the listing is on Trade Me or Realestate.co.nz. If it’s on Facebook Marketplace or any Facebook group, it is not a genuine Rent Shop listing. The Rent Shop Hobsonville employees will never communicate with you via Facebook Messenger. Any such communication should be considered suspicious. Use the 'Apply Now' button to apply for a property on Trade Me and is a secure way to submit your application.
Our application process is powered by a platform called "Renti." When you apply, you should see "renti.co" at the beginning of the web address. This ensures that you’re on a secure and verified site. Be cautious of any other application processes or forms that do not follow this protocol. Before making any payments for bond or move-in costs, it is essential to confirm the details to avoid falling victim to scams.
Look up the property and the rental agency to ensure they are legitimate. Cross-reference the information on multiple trusted platforms. Whenever possible, view the property in person before making any payments. Scammers often use photos from real listings to deceive potential renters. Scammers will often create a sense of urgency to rush you into making a payment without proper verification. Take your time to confirm all details. If you encounter a suspected scam, report it to the platform where you found the listing and to local authorities. This helps protect others from falling victim.
Your safety and security is our top priority. We want to ensure that you have all the necessary information to protect yourself from rental scams. Always use trusted platforms, verify communication channels, and confirm payment details before proceeding with any transactions. By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, you can help prevent scams and secure a legitimate rental property.
If you would like to work with a company that values our owners and tenants, please feel free to contact us: 021RENT4U mike.james@therentshop.co.nz.