Victims out $11K in rental scam involving north Edmonton property: police

The Edmonton Police Service says this house, located at 7516 147 Ave., is being used as a rental scam. (Matt Marshall/CTV News Edmonton)

The Edmonton Police Service is warning the public about a property being used as part of a rental scam.

People attempting to rent the property have been defrauded of almost $11,000, EPS said.

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The house at 7516 147 Ave. is being advertised for rent on Facebook Marketplace and other buy-and-sell sites.

Multiple victims have reported speaking with a person claiming to be the homeowner, and in some cases meeting in person to tour the house.

After the victim signs a lease and pays a deposit, the “homeowner” fails to return calls and does not show up on the agreed-upon possession date.

Police are offering the following tips to avoid rental scams:

• Chat with someone who has rented from the same person or company in the past, if possible.
• Conduct an internet search on the property to see who may live there, and determine if there are additional rental ads for the same property.
• Check other listings in the general area and see what the going rates for rentals are.
• Pay attention to your instincts: if something feels wrong with a listing, the application process feels rushed, or something seems too good to be true, be wary.

Anyone who sees an advertisement for this property or who has been in contact with someone about this property is encouraged to report it to police at 780-423-4567.