A US renter has sparked an online debate after revealing the bizarre reason she refused to hand over a deposit for a new home.
The woman claimed her future landlord refused to confirm she was, in fact, the owner of the property.
The potential tenant explained in a Reddit post that she was introduced to a real estate agent during a house inspection.
She claims the agent repeatedly referred to the landlord in the third person throughout the tour.
The renter claims the agent, along with a second person sharing the same surname, was listed on the paperwork as the landlord.
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A US renter has sparked an online debate after revealing the bizarre reason she refused to hand over a deposit. Picture: Reddit/agreementloop184
The potential tenant explained in a Reddit post she was introduced to a real estate agent during a house inspection. Picture: Reddit/agreementloop184
Confusion turned to a red flag when the renter was asked to pay a security deposit before any formal lease was signed.
“Hi, I can send the money today, but I haven’t signed a lease or anything. When can we get the paperwork fully situated?” the renter wrote in a message.
The response: “The lease will be prepared after the deposit is being received today.”
Social media users did not hold back, warning the woman she was being targeted by a scam.
“Run, do not walk, to the nearest exit,” one commenter wrote, echoed by: “This is so obviously a scam. Like [a] glaringly obvious in-your-face scam.”
“Absolutely do not give this person any money without already having a signed lease. That is never how this game works,” another added.
Confusion turned to a red flag when the renter was asked to pay a security deposit before any formal lease was signed. Picture: Reddit/agreementloop184
The landlord’s identity remained a mystery. Picture: Reddit/agreementloop184
Many users urged her to seek legal advice. Others suggested following the payment instructions and insisting on receipts.
While the Reddit post originated in the US, the “pay-first” tactic is a common red flag in Australia’s rental market.
Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows 514,300 Australians fell victim to scams in 2022-23, with those aged 35 to 44 the most affected.
Experts warn tenants should never transfer funds until they have a signed lease from both parties and have verified the agent’s credentials.
Anyone who suspects they’ve been scammed should report the matter to police via ReportCyber and contact their bank immediately.
For now, the tenant remains torn between walking away or cutting her losses.
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