Qube Residential have selected their 8 top tips for avoiding internet scams and fraud when selling a property in Liverpool.
Students receive their unconditional and conditional offers during this time of year, graduates accept their first role after studying at university, and some are even switching courses to a new city. What do they all have in common? They will be moving to new student accommodation.
We are sure you are aware of how the Coronavirus pandemic has caused many changes in the world since it began over a year ago. Qube residential show you how to make the right choices when looking for your next tenant, so you don’t get caught out by fraudsters.
Sadly, a rise in scam effort is happening worldwide. Innocent and honest people are being targeted by telephone calls, texts, and emails. It is massively important to keep up to date with the common scam techniques to protect yourself and your properties.
Most landlords utilising Qube Residential have found it straightforward and safe to inform potential renters of their rental homes. However, we are still informed about fraud attempts from time to time.
We have always been proactive concerning such matters by providing landlords with education on recognising and dealing with deception or fraud. Most of the time, connections are established by email. There are usually a few ‘flags.’ The list below can assist landlords in identifying which emails may need a closer inspection.
1) Inquiries from Areas Outside Liverpool
Almost all of the fraudsters we’ve seen are from other nations, posing as students on their way to England. Many universities have a sizable international student population. When looking for living options, most reputable overseas students will already have been accepted at their institution. You can get a copy of their confirmation letter to double-check.
2) Personal Financial Information
A prospective renter should never ask a landlord for personal financial details. This raises a red flag right away.
3) Transfer/Wire Funds Request
Never wire or send money to a possible tenant! This is another apparent red sign. A fraudster sends the landlord a check or wire transfer in excess of the rent and security deposit. The fraudsters will then ask the landlord to refund the overpayment, claiming that it was made in error. The landlord’s money will be lost if he or she cooperates because the initial transfer will not clear the bank and will be reported as fraudulent.
4) Grammatical and Spelling Errors in Emails
Many grammatical and spelling problems can be found in fraudster emails. Be wary of common words that are misspelt frequently or if specific keywords are used out of context.
5) Does the Email Start with a Strange Salutation?
It’s uncommon for students to address someone as Sir or Madam in an email. This would be another subtle tell-tail sign.
6) Does the Tenant Want to Move in Without Seeing the Property?
The majority of tenants will not agree to lease and move into a property without first viewing it. It may be inevitable for certain overseas students, but potential renters will look at the rental first in most cases.
7) Does the Email Refer to an Unusual Arrangement with Another Person?
Suppose the email mentions an odd or unusual rent payment plan, the participation of a third party, or anything else suspicious. In that case, it is often a good indicator that it might be a scam.
8) Providing Unnecessary or Unrequested Information
Suppose a possible tenant sends information such as photos, a student visa, a passport number, or other unrequested information. In that case, it might be another warning sign that you are dealing with a fraudster.
