It is a real risk. I don't think you can depend on the website to help you. But, you can verify who owns the house by going to the county real estate website. You can also ask the owner for some previous renters as references. I would feel more comfortable if the landlord would accept a credit card, but that may not be possible.
Or, you could rent a house from a recognized business, like a licensed broker or The Villages Management Company.
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