How do I find out who owns a house that is up for rent?

Question

There is a house listed in craigslist, supposedly the owner is in south africa (and I am in the USA) and I want to make sure the house is NOT in foreclosure. Before contacting him/her. The email that they sent me is just a little suspicious.

Who do I contact for the info on that house?

Answer 1

This is screaming SCAM at me. The chances are that some unsuspecting person owns the house, or the house doesn't exist at all. The scammer is hoping that some dope will send them a security deposit, and then the scammer will take the money and you will never hear from them again. Renting a house from this person is a huge mistake!

I hope this helps, good luck!

Answer 2

Do not ever deal with people in South Africa. So many scams are from there. But, you can call your local county assessor's office and find out who owns it. I have had several people from South Africa try to rip me off on Ebay.

Answer 3

Just because the owner lives out of the country does not mean its a scam - people on here are so paranoid!!!!!

You are doing the right steps in doing your homework and verifying this guys story.

In order to file a foreclosure there has to be some paperwork and some sort of record of it.  asking around is a good next step. However- I'm not sure if those records are public or not as I do not handle sales.

Answer 4

There are 10 questions here from people who have been scammed by an out-of-country "landlord" who is really an internet criminal.  You must meet your landlord. He will know the owner's name and use it in his correspondence with you.

The Assessors Office has the owner's name.

Answer 5

That is a scam. Deal only with people within your country, or within your immediate vicinity. Many scams are from South Africa.