Rental Scam

[Camila804]

Got an email from a guy saying he will rent me his apartment, but that I have to deposit 3.5k for 2 months rent and to "block out"the apartment from airbnb. After that he will send the keys to an agent and he will show us the apartment. I find it very weird that we can't see the apartment before we pay. And I don't think there even is this type of option on airbnb!

[Shelley159]

Hi @Camila804 

It sounds as if he claims that he is hosting the apartment on Airbnb. Ask him for the Airbnb link, study his profile, details of the listing and reviews and (if everything looks good), tell him you want to book on Airbnb. If he genuinely feels his place is excellent, he would welcome the opportunity to get a great review from you. He can still offer you a special price when you request to book on Airbnb, even if his regular rates are higher. You will both at least have Aircover and a dispute resolution process. One wonders why he did not approach it this way to begin with ... I understand why you are concerned.

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Camila804 This is a standard scam that has been running for years. As you say it is not an option Airbnb offer.