Palm Beach County Florida Real Estate Blog

Rental scams are on the rise and scam artists are more believable than ever. If you’re looking for a home to rent odds are you’ve come across rental scams online. Years ago they use to be pretty obvious. The monthly rent would be well under market value making people question the validity of the rental ad. However, today they’re fooling everyone. So how can you spot a rental scam?

4 Ways to Spot a Rental Scam

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If the property is listed “for rent by owner” with no real estate agent involved on websites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace there is a strong possibility it’s a rental scam. Anyone can post a rental ad on an online classified website. Craigslist and Facebook are the most popular, but not the only sites to be skeptical of.

The Landlord is Unavailable and Untraceable

If you’re dealing with someone who says the landlord is on a sabbatical and can’t be reached that should be a red flag. Proving who the owner of the property is is vital to not being scammed. No matter where you live you should be able to find out who the property owner is by searching the public records. In Palm Beach County Florida you can go to Palm Beach Property Appraisers.

Now, this is where it can get a little complicated because the property owner may not be Jane Smith, it might be Sunshine Real Estate Investments LLC. Therefore, a secondary search needs to be done to determine the actual person(s) tied to the property. If you’re in Florida this can be done at Sunbiz.org by looking for the Registered Agent Name & Address along with Authorized Person(s) Detail.

However, sometimes corporations will have other cooperations listed, which should be a red flag. Scam artists specifically target these types of properties because it’s next to impossible to track down a person. If the “authorized person” on record is Sunshine Properties LLC it’s easy for John Doe, aka scam artist, say he owns Sunshine Properties.

Unidentified “Representative”

If you are unable to identify who you’re dealing with it might be a rental scam. These con artists are now obtaining access to the interior of homes listed for rent. So when they show up and show a prospective tenant the interior of a home they tend to let their guard down. Why would a scammer personally meet with someone? Well, most aren’t too worried about getting caught, rental scams don’t seem to be a top priority for law enforcement or they just send a 3rd party on their behalf.

I know you’re probably asking how they obtain access to the interior of the home? This actually isn’t that difficult. If the property is on a mechanical lockbox, not a supra lockbox, the code can be obtained. The scammer may break into the property and program the garage door to a remote. Another possibility is having a side or back door rekeyed by a locksmith. So if you’re looking at a home for rent and it’s not on a big blue supra lockbox that requires a licensed agent to open beware.

Lines of Communication

If you’re only communicating with the “landlord” or their representative via e-mail it might be a scam. The same holds trued if they’re using a burner phone. When you have a working phone number use it to track down the owner. If it turns out to be a burner phone that should be a red flag. Normal people aren’t using burner phones to rent their property. A majority of landlords are easily traceable.

Money, But No Keys

If the “landlord” wants you to send money and in return they’ll send you the keys it might be a rental scam. However, if the scammer managed to gain access to the property they may hand you WORKING keys. Yes, believe it or not, people have moved into vacant properties only to find out the true owner isn’t the one who rented it to them. This is why it’s so important for landlords to work with licensed real estate agents who are going to make sure the property stays secure and vacant until they find a qualified tenant.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to rent a home don’t trust anyone unless they are a licensed real estate agent. Keep all of your correspondence with the person you’re dealing with and take notes. If they show you the property don’t be afraid to ask to see their id. Mind you professional scammers are going to have fakes. You’ll also want to write down their license plate number. This way if you do get scammed you’ll have detailed evidence to hand over. Better yet use a Realtor to find your next rental.

Please consider spreading the word and sharing; How to Spot a Rental Scam | 4 Ways to Tell If You’re Being Scammed

About the Author

The above real estate article “How to Spot a Rental Scam | 4 Ways to Tell If You’re Being Scammed” was written by Michelle Gibson. She has been specializing in residential real estate throughout Palm Beach County since 2001. Not only does Michelle assist buyers and sellers, she assists landlords and tenants too. She would love to share her expertise and guide you through your buying, selling or renting journey.

Our brokerage services the following areas; Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Greenacres, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens and more.

Entering the real estate market to rent a home has a lot of similarities to buying a home. One of those similarities is written offers being rejected. Yes, offers are rejected in the rental market, which often leaves a tenant speechless. They just can’t comprehend why a landlord would reject their offer when they’re willing to pay the rent they’re asking. Sometimes buying a home can be easier than renting one because landlords tend to have more requirements than a landlord. Here are 7 reasons why a landlord rejects a tenant’s offer.

Why Does a Landlord Reject a Tenant’s Offer?

Credit Score

An excellent credit score shows how financially responsible a person is. So when a prospective tenant has less than perfect credit with a low credit score their offer may be rejected. Tenants with poor credit are often seen as a risk, a risk some landlords aren’t willing to take. Now, if the credit score is due to lack of credit, student debt or medical bills some landlords are more inclined to make an exception if payments were made on time. However, if their credit score is low due to late payments, bankruptcy or a lot of debt it’s a red flag to landlords and the odds of them rejecting an offer substantially increase.

Lack of Income

In addition to making sure a tenant takes care of their home, a landlord also wants to make sure the tenant is financially capable of paying the rent. Therefore, most landlords want the tenant’s gross monthly income to be triple the rent. So if the monthly rent is $3,000 the tenant’s gross monthly income needs to be a minimum of $9,000. In most cases, the only way a landlord will accept a tenant with low income or no income is if they pay rent upfront. Sometimes the entire year’s worth of rent will need to be paid. While other times a landlord will settle for 1-6 months of additional rent upfront.

Lack of Move-In Funds

One of the main differences between renting through a private landlord or through an apartment complex is the amount of money required upfront. Most apartment complexes will charge first month’s rent and a security deposit, which is usually based on credit. However, private landlords tend to want first month’s rent, last month’s rent and a security deposit equal to one month’s rent. If a tenant does not have the funds to put down a landlord may reject their offer. In areas where three months of rent are due upfront is commonplace a landlord most likely won’t accept anything less.

Criminal Record

Tenants with a criminal record are more likely to have their offer rejected. Occasionally, a landlord will make an exception if the criminal record is minor, old or comes with a very good explanation. In addition to the landlord rejecting a tenant based on criminal record if the home is located in a homeowners association they may reject them too.

Eviction Record

When a tenant has been previously evicted it is a huge red flag to future landlords. It clearly shows the tenant failed to pay rent. Not only did they not pay rent, but their landlord at the time went through the headache of evicting them. Getting around an eviction record can be next to impossible and therefore tenants with an eviction record may be rejected.

Pets

Even though a majority of people have pets not all landlords or HOA’s will allow them. And if a landlord is open to pets they’ll usually have restrictions. Restrictions like one pet, cats only, dog less than 20 pounds. The list of restrictions goes on and on. Even the tenants with a “good dog” may still have their offer rejected.

Move-In Date

When a prospective tenant wants to move in too soon or not soon enough their offer might be rejected. It’s important for tenants to look at properties that will be available within their timeframe. If a property is vacant the landlord will most likely be looking for immediate occupancy pending the approval process. In some cases, they may be willing to hold the property for 1-4 weeks for a qualified tenant. However, holding a property for months is unlikely even if the landlord doesn’t have a mortgage, they still have overhead.

5 Tips for Getting Your Rental Offer Accepted

If you are in the rental market you’ll want to put your best foot forward. Below are tips to follow when submitting an offer on a rental property.

1. Submit a Complete Offer Package; This should include the offer, a rental application, proof of income, pet resume, credit report, background report and an introduction letter. Don’t just submit an offer with nothing else. You or your rental agent should submit everything in one e-mail.
2. Be Honest; Don’t lie on your rental application. In the world of technology, the odds of lying and getting away with it are slim. Be honest with the landlord from the start.
3. Be Forthcoming; Don’t keep things from the landlord, like previous evictions or a criminal record, they will find out. Write a letter explaining why your credit score is so low or why you were previously evicted.
4. Stay Within Budget; Only look at and apply for properties you will qualify for. Most landlords aren’t going to be negotiable especially if you have poor credit, a record, not enough money or a realistic move-in date.
5. Include a Pet Resume; Gather pictures of your pet along with their records, which should have their age, weight and medical history. Every person is going to say they have the best pet. Offer to meet the landlord with your pet to prove how good they really are.

Final Thoughts

It’s not uncommon for a landlord to reject a tenant’s offer. In fact, it probably happens more than people know. Some landlords will wait months for a qualified tenant. So tenants should not be surprised if their offer was turned down especially if they have any of the issues discussed. Tenant’s need to submit a winning offer by following the 5 tips listed above.

Please consider spreading the word and sharing; 7 Reasons a Landlord Rejects a Tenant’s Offer

About the Author

The above real estate article “7 Reasons a Landlord Rejects a Tenant’s Offer” was written by Michelle Gibson. She has been specializing in residential real estate throughout Palm Beach County since 2001. Not only does Michelle assist buyers and sellers, she assists landlords and tenants too. She would love to share her expertise and guide you through your buying, selling or renting journey.

Our brokerage services the following areas; Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Greenacres, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens and more.

Home inspectors are typically hired by home buyers, but homeowners hire them too. Regardless of who is hiring a home inspector the questions that need to be asked remain the same. By asking a home inspector questions upfront, during and after the inspection all parties will be better prepared.

10 Questions to Ask a Home Inspector

1. What Do You Inspect?

Never assume home inspectors have the ability to inspect everything because a majority do not. In fact, no two home inspectors are alike, some will inspect swimming pools while others will not. So it’s important to know exactly what the home inspector is going to inspect.

2. Do I Need to Hire Additional Inspectors?

Since not all home inspectors inspect everything it’s important to ask if any other types of inspectors need to be hired. The most common items that need to be inspected by another professional are; termites, roofs, septic systems, swimming pools, mold, lead-based paint and asbestos.

3. What Are Your Qualifications?

A home inspector’s qualifications and experience will vary, so it’s important to ask what it is. What are their credentials? Do they hold any type of license? In addition to finding out their qualification also find out if they’re bonded and insured.

4. How Long Will the Home Inspection Take?

The length of time a home inspection can take will vary. It all depends on what type of property it is, how large it is and how many inspectors will be there. It’s highly recommended that buyers attend their home inspection, but really don’t need to be there the entire 1-5 hours, they can simply come towards the end.

5. How Much Will the Home Inspection Cost?

Just like how long a home inspection takes the cost will vary too. It’s important to know the exact cost of a home inspection, so there are no surprises at the inspection. This is another reason why it’s important to know the inspector’s qualifications because like most things in life you get what you pay for. Never shop for home inspectors by price, shop by qualifications. It may cost a tad more, but for most it will be well worth it.

6. Will You Go Over the Inspection Report With Me?

A majority of home inspectors will provide a detailed report with photographs, but it’s always good to be shown issues first hand. So it’s advised to find out ahead of time if the home inspector will stick around after the inspection to walk through the property and go over the report in person.

7. What Items Need to Be Replaced Immediately?

A good home inspector will be able to determine what items are not working properly and need to be replaced immediately. Knowing this information is very important especially for home buyers. If the HVAC or roof are on their last leg that is a big ticketed item for most buyers. Not many people have $5,000 to $50,000 laying around to make replacements before they even move in.

8. What Items Need to Be Replaced in the Near Future?

While a home inspector will never know exactly when something is going to break they can usually spot indications. If the water heater is 19 years old it’s probably not going to last another 5-7 years. Knowing the age and condition of things will help them determine what people need to be prepared for.

9. Do Any Items Need to Be Further Inspected?

A majority of home inspectors have a general knowledge of things they inspect, but sometimes a specialist needs to be brought in to further evaluate. This is very common when the condition of the roof or the function of the HVAC unit is in question. By having an expert in their field further inspect will paint a clear picture of what’s going on.

10. What Are the Estimated Costs?

A home inspector is never going to know the exact cost to repair or replace items. However, they should be able to provide a general estimate for most items. In fact, there are software programs that can calculate it for them. Having a rough estimate will be very helpful to a homeowner or buyer going forward.

Final Thoughts

Buyers should always hire a home inspector when purchasing a home and it wouldn’t be a bad idea for sellers to do the same before they list their home. Regardless if one or both parties hire their own home inspector they need to ask questions before, during and after the inspection. By knowing what they’re getting can alleviate unnecessary stress and better prepare them for what to expect. One thing people need to remember is not all home inspectors are created equal. So it’s important they do their homework and hire the best, not the cheapest one with minimal qualifications and experience.

If you found “10 Questions to Ask a Home Inspector” an interesting read please give it a share!

Additional Home Buying Resources

• In addition to hiring a home inspector and asking questions, there are other home-buying tips that should be followed. Learning about what mistakes to avoid, what to look for at the final walk-through and what to do immediately after closing to name a few.
• Sometimes home buyers are afraid to ask questions, but if they find out what questions to ask ahead of time they can be better prepared. And this doesn’t just apply home inspectors, buyers should ask their agent, mortgage lender and title company questions too.

About the Author

The above real estate article “10 Questions to Ask a Home Inspector” was written by Michelle Gibson. She has been specializing in residential real estate throughout Palm Beach County since 2001. Not only does Michelle assist buyers and sellers, she assists landlords and tenants too. She would love to share her expertise and guide you through your buying, selling or renting journey.

Our brokerage services the following areas; Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Greenacres, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens and more.

If you want to sell your home for top dollar in the shortest amount of time staging is key. By staging your home it will not only look it’s best, but buyers will be able to imagine themselves living there. Today’s homebuyer is accustom to seeing picture-perfect homes on TV, in magazines and the local competition. So staging has gotten to the point where it’s no longer optional, it’s expected.

So What Does Staging a House Mean?

Home staging is the process of preparing a home before listing it for sale. This means strategically arranging furniture and simplifying decor to make it appealing to the masses. This will give the seller a larger buyer pool, which means more bodies through the door and more interest in the home.

How Do You Stage a House?

Remove Clutter

Even the most organized people tend to have clutter somewhere in their house. Whether it’s in a single drawer, the walk-in closet or garage clutter needs to be removed. Sometimes simply throwing items away, donating them or organizing them will be enough. However, some homeowners are busting at the seams, so they’ll need to find another place to store their excess belongings. A storage unit is usually the easiest way to go.

Depersonalize

By removing clutter a house will automatically look cleaner and bigger. However, removing the stacks of clutter is just the beginning personal belongings need to be removed too. The shelf full of family photographs should be removed or switched out with a single piece of art. The kid’s artwork hanging on the refrigerator needs to be taken down. The dog bed and toys in the corner, yep you guessed it they need to be removed too even if it’s just for showings.

Deep Clean

Once the clutter is removed and a house has been depersonalized it needs to be cleaned. However, not just the standard cleaning, it will need a deep clean. Deep cleaning involves moving furniture, scrubbing baseboards, cleaning inside the kitchen cabinets, cleaning under and in the appliances. Basically, items that aren’t cleaned weekly need to be cleaned.

Painting

Even model homes have marks on the walls and scuffs on the baseboards, which means every house could use a fresh coat of paint inside and out. Paint is one of the cheapest ways to improve a home’s appearance. It can take a drab home and make it feel light, clean and fresh. Interior paint colors should always be neutral and bright because even if a buyer plans on painting the house they aren’t forced to do it immediately. Most people can live with neutral colors and change them out gradually. 

Furnishings

A lot of homeowners have too much furniture, so it will need to be pared down. People should be able to easily walk through a room and not run into or brush up against any furniture. If the furniture doesn’t look new or is to taste specific it needs to be removed as well. Sometimes renting furniture isn’t ideal, but in some cases, it’s absolutely necessary.

Fixtures

Now that the furniture is squared away the next thing to look at is fixtures, specifically lighting. Is it outdated or missing altogether? If so it should be replaced and it can be done pretty inexpensively. If a homeowner is handy they might be able to get away with spray painting them to give a fresh, clean look.

Window treatments can be included in this category as well. If they are old and outdated they need to be removed and/or replaced. Homeowners will want to keep their home light and bright, so window treatments may not always be necessary. However, specific rooms like the bedroom will need privacy, so simple clean blinds, not cheap aluminum ones can be added.

Curb Appeal

A house’s interior appearance is just as important as the exterior, so don’t ignore the outside. Paint the house if needed, pressure clean, trim trees, remove weeds, add fresh mulch or rocks and keep the lawn mowed. If exterior lighting is rusted out replace it and make sure all bulbs are working. Homeowners need to keep in mind when a buyer pulls up to a house they’re already judging it and if the outside isn’t appealing they won’t even view the inside.

Final Thoughts

Every homeowner needs to stage their home prior to listing it for sale. I highly recommend contacting your listing agent and do a walk-through of the property with them. Have them create a “to do” list and what’s going to be the best ROI. Sometimes staging a home doesn’t have to cost a dime, it simply requires a little elbow grease.

Additional Home Staging Tips and Advice

• Ugly home staging doesn’t work! It’s so easy to go wrong when it comes to staging a home. The key is to keep it clean and simple. Stay away from themed designs, putting area rugs, pillows and towels everywhere.
• Buyers look at garages too, so make sure it’s an extension of the home and staged, not a dumping ground. Making over a garage on a budget can be done especially if a homeowner does the work themselves. 
• Maximizing curb appeal is key to getting buyers through the door. The exterior is usually the first photo buyers see in the property listing and it’s the first thing they see when they pull up to the home. If the exterior doesn’t look appealing they may night schedule a viewing of the property.

If you found “7 Easy Tips for Staging Your House” an interesting read please give it a share!

About the Author

The above real estate article “7 Easy Tips for Staging Your House” was written by Michelle Gibson. She has been specializing in residential real estate throughout Palm Beach County since 2001. Not only does Michelle assist buyers and sellers, she assists landlords and tenants too. She would love to share her expertise and guide you through your buying, selling or renting journey.

Our brokerage services the following areas; Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Greenacres, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens and more.