Lyttelton residents are being scammed out of their cash by fraudulent estate agents and landlords, according to police spokesperson Captain Dave Miller.
Miller said the “estate agent” would place an advertisement on a property sharing and advertising website.
“When the victim calls they are told there is still someone staying at the property,” he said.
“But the victim is assured if they pay a deposit, the property will be guaranteed to be theirs once the other tenant leaves.”
“Victims are usually encouraged to pay the deposit in the meantime.”
Miller said, once the deposit is paid, the bogus estate agent will start stalling.
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“They usually create a delay between you paying the deposit and finalising the deal.”
Miller said the reason for the delay was to provide the scammer an opportunity to withdraw the deposit paid.
He said some scammers were even going so far as to provide victims with a contract.
“Everything looks above board so we are urging the public to be very careful.”
Miller suggests using reputable and well-known estate agents when searching for a property to buy or rent.
“Do your homework properly,” he said.
“Using a reputable estate agent or agency helps, especially when you are requested to pay a deposit.”
Miller said prospective tenants should insist on being let into a property when viewing it.
“Always arrange to go and see the property before you rent it.”
Anyone who has fallen victim to this scam or suspects they are being scammed is urged to contact the Lyttelton police on 012-644-8600.
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