Rental Verified AKA Tenant Rental Scam Internet Scam for Property Renters Internet

This is the email I got today from an Internet scammer that's apparently been targetting different areas of the U.S. according to other reports. Watch out for them.

"Thank you for your interest in our home for rent.

The property we have that is currently vacant right now is a 2 bedroom 2.0 bath with garage in an excellent neighborhood. The property has a washer and dryer.

There have not been any pets in the home so there are no smells, stains, or odors. The home is pet friendly with no breed restrictions, we do not charge a fee or require a deposit but if your pet damages the property it is up to you to complete all repairs.

To rent our property we require the following:

1. A valid Driver's license or Photo ID

2. The first months rent

3. Background check for each applicant

4. Rental agreement (month to month, 6 months or 1 year), I'll bring it to the showing

You can complete the background check online used Rental Verified: (link)

This is an easy way for me to screen applicants based on prior addresses and job history. If you have a felony or poor rental history, I am flexible and I'll work with you.

This property rents quickly, let me know when you have your background check and are ready to schedule a viewing. It is in a .pdf, you can print it and bring it to the showing or email it to me.

What's the best contact number for you? Are you available tomorrow?

I will be available tomorrow, Thursday morning. "

I got this response today to an inquiry about a property for rent in Houston, Texas. Apparently this scammer has targeted people in other parts as well (California, Michigan, and Florida) based on other reports on here as well.

The rental verified link will send you to a place where you're supposed to pay $30-40 for a background check before you even see the house. NOT. People don't normal require that until you're already applying/purchasing it, not when you're just coming in for a showing. Total scam, and these people have been elsewhere. STAY AWAY.