How can I trust people on craiglist??

Question

I plan to move to New York this upcoming year, possibly around February. I live in Florida and the only way I can afford to move to New York is if I get a roommate. And I always look online and find great deals and (it seems) like cool people renting them out, but how can I trust that they are legitmate? I would hate to send a deposit in the mail and get nothing out of it.

Any tips in being able to spot people taking advantage of renters?

Thanks!!

Answer 1

simple... you cant trust them.

why would you trust someone youve never met?

verify personal info like phone/address

verify their employment

search for them on s*x offender and other criminal databases

get both personal and professional references

never give info about yourself that can be used for id theft.

Answer 2

I have heard that craigslist is pretty reliable. I would get to know the person really well so you can trust them and make sure you get their contact information.

Answer 3

Avoid anything that

* ask to transfer money beforehand

* spelling/typos

* grammar errors

* only one contact method (ie. email)

* non New York contact (out-of-state phone number)

* "I'm in the ____ on vacation and can't be there in NYC to show you the place but will FedEx you the keys for a fee..."

When in doubt, have two email address to contact the person. If thet tell you you got the place and the second email (that they do not know is you) that you will be getting it a well, watch out.