Imagine this: you list your property for rent online, excited to find a great tenant. The applications start rolling in, and everything looks perfect on paper. But behind those polished documents could be one of the biggest scams happening in the rental market today.

The Scam That’s Costing Landlords Thousands

Right now, gangs and organized fraud rings are targeting landlords who list homes for rent on platforms like Zillow without using a property management company. They submit applications filled with fake pay stubs, fake IDs, stolen credit cards, and even fabricated credit reports. Everything looks legitimate — until the tenant moves in and the payments stop. By then, you’re stuck with a non-paying occupant and a costly eviction process.

Why This Happens

These scams thrive because many landlords rely on simple online applications that don’t verify the information provided. Scammers know this and exploit it. They’re professionals at creating convincing documents that pass a quick glance but fail under real scrutiny.

How We Stop It

At Carolina Property Network, we take tenant screening seriously. Our application process is far more complex than a basic online form. Applicants must apply through our secure website, and every piece of information they submit is verified for authenticity. We check employment, income, and identity thoroughly — and we even require facial recognition to confirm the applicant is who they claim to be. These extra steps dramatically reduce the risk of fraud and protect your property from becoming a scammer’s next target.

What You Should Do as a Landlord

If you’re managing your own rental property, you need to adopt similar safeguards. Don’t rely on simple applications or take documents at face value. Verify everything. Use technology to confirm identities. And if this sounds overwhelming, consider partnering with a professional property management company that has the tools and expertise to keep you safe.