Beware of Fake Rental Scams: Squatters Evicted from Houston Home
A family of five was evicted from a Houston home they claimed to have rented for $6,000, after their lease was determined to be fake by police. Linda Giang, the owner of the house in Meyerland, was shocked to find that locks had been changed and people were living in her home without her authorization. One of the squatters, Tamisha Holmes-Bey, claimed to have paid a realtor and showed a lease with her family’s names on it, but it did not name Giang nor her husband as landlords, rather it listed a person who has no relation to the ownership of the home.
Home rental scams are becoming more prevalent, especially during these uncertain times when desperate individuals may need a place to live. Criminals use different tactics to trick people into renting homes that they do not own or have authority over. In the case of the Houston home, it appears the scammer may have had access to the property and changed the locks, giving the illusion of ownership.
Andrew Moran, the CEO of Home River Group, a property management company, warns prospective renters to be cautious when renting a home. He suggests doing thorough research, speaking with the landlord, physically visiting the property, and paying through a secure system such as a credit card or PayPal.
Moreover, homeowners can take steps to deter trespassers or burglars by making their homes appear occupied. This includes installing security cameras and physical barriers, such as locked gates. Utilizing trusted neighbors or friends who can regularly check your home and challenge suspicious activities can be an excellent asset for homeowners of unoccupied homes.
Home rental scams are preventable, and individuals need to remain vigilant to avoid falling victim to them. If something seems too good to be accurate, it’s best to investigate it thoroughly and confirm that the person is actually authorized to rent the property. Renters and homeowners both need to be proactive and take the necessary steps to prevent fraudulent activities from happening. Otherwise, the consequences can be dire, which could lead to costly financial losses and extensive legal proceedings.
