Rental scam shows fake listings to real homes in Simcoe County

A real estate sign is shown in this file image. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paige Taylor White

A rental listing scam resulting in unsuspecting individuals attending private residences under the belief they are viewing legitimate rental properties is on the rise.

Provincial police have received reports involving people arriving at residential properties believing they were scheduled to view a rental unit.

Police say many of these properties are not available for rent, are listed only for sale, or were previously listed for sale and are no longer on the market.

An individual or group using the company name “ShowPro” is allegedly copying legitimate real estate listings and reposting them as rental properties on third-party websites.

Prospective renters are directed to contact the advertiser through the fraudulent listing and are given viewing instructions by text message or telephone.

Reports identify that prospective renters are instructed to attend the property on their own and have been provided with lockbox access codes to gain entry without meeting a property owner, realtor, or authorized representative.

The Huronia West Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is concerned about the significant safety risks associated with this scam.

Homeowners, prospective buyers, and neighbours may unexpectedly encounter strangers on a property, creating confusion and the potential for confrontation.

In addition, victims of these scams risk providing personal information or financial deposits to fraudsters.

The Huronia West OPP reminds residents and prospective renters to take precautions when searching for rental accommodations.

Rental Scam Prevention Tips

• Verify rental listings through multiple sources and confirm they are associated with a legitimate, local real estate brokerage or property management company.
• Research the individual or company advertising the property and independently verify contact information.
• Be cautious of rental rates significantly lower than comparable properties in the area.
• Never rely solely on information posted on third-party rental websites.
• Ensure a realtor, landlord, property manager, or authorized representative is present when viewing a property.
• Be suspicious of anyone who provides lockbox access codes by text message or telephone and directs you to view a property alone.
• Never send money, deposits, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or e-transfers before verifying the legitimacy of a rental listing.
• Ask questions and request documentation proving ownership or authority to rent the property.
• Reverse-search property photos online, as scammers frequently reuse images from legitimate listings.
• If an offer seems too good to be true, it likely is.