Apex, N.C. — Two families are out of thousands of dollars after they thought they found an affordable home in Wake County.
One of the families, who asked not to be identified by WRAL News, said the three bedroom home in Apex fit all the qualifications they had for a party of two.
“Everything seemed legit until we moved into the house,” the man said.
Six days later, the locks were changed and deputies were at the door.
The couple said they saw the home lined, called the number listed and text messages were exchanged. A priced was settled upon and the couple paid online and were told keys would be outside the home.
“Be very cautios. Do your research and don’t do anything online,” the man said.
Apex police said they’ve received two reports of the scam using the same house.
Shortly after the latest scam, the rental company put a magnet on the home which states how those interested can properly rent the home hopes of protecting future victims.
Meanwhile, the scammed family said they’re trying to recover from losing over a thousand dollars.
“We are struggling. There is no one we can turn to. My only advice is to be careful and mindful of what you are doing,” the man said.
Police say people can protect themselves from rental scams by doing research, checking real estate records online and contacting the owner listed. People are also encouraged to check…
