A fraudster posing as a Property Manager is fleecing landlords of their rent money. He is gaining the landlords permission to manage the property then approaching the tenant with an offer of cheaper rent. Typically this cheaper rent is for a six month fixed term lease, with the six months rent paid up front. He then takes off with the money.
Tenancy Services say that the landlord is out of pocket as they contracted the fraudster.
So far this person appears to be targeting Auckland Inner City apartments, with foreign tenants and landlords. Usually he approaches landlords first but has approached a tenant directly.
If you have an Inner City apartment and are approached by a property manager, take care to check out their credentials and ensure that they are genuine. Make sure they operate out of their own premises and consider warning your tenants.
Andrew King
p: (09) 815 8642
f: (09) 815 8648
http://www.propertyinvestor.info
July 16th, 2010 - 11:34 am
Great ideas.