Quote:
Originally Posted by STLRAY
I am planning to rent a house in TV soon and it occurs to me that I am about to send a five figure check to a stranger who posted pictures and a description of a house on a website. The person does not need to actually own a house to post these pictures and collect checks from multiple strangers. Am I being paranoid or is this a real risk? I know lots of people have been ripped off on adds for cars on E-bay and Craigslist. Do the people operating these websites confirm that the person listing the rental actually owns or manages the properties they are advertising?
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I have worked in TV and helped renters get their proper renter's ID etc. for many years. I no longer work for TV; I am now fully retired so I don't have any skin in the game.
Most, but not all, private renters and third party rental management companies are okay or good, however for a first time rental I'd recommend you pay a little extra and rent through TV Hometown Property Management company.
Once you have been here and understand the importance of things, like the Renter's ID vs a Visitor ID, what does fully furnished mean, you'll be in a position to better evaluate a private renters offer. I have heard many horror stories, but most folks who rent their homes or property are good ethical people.
Enjoy your time in The Villages.