Jul 11, 2013
SCAM !! This is the phone number for a (stupid) scam artist plying her scam on the Chicago Craigslist site. I am the listing agent for a rental property (listed at $1,4000). She identifies herself as Laura Branin (fake name, surely) and is presenting herself as the owner and asking $800 per month for the same rental listing.
Tells the interested parties that she's laid up in a hospital in CO, and can't get them into the home. Insists that they only call or text her phone number. Suggests they look at it from the outside and then will likely ask for the first month's rent, security deposit, and pet deposit (her email is pasted below). The Craigslist ad has been removed, but no telling where else she's popping up these con games. Idiot. Bottom line; Buyer beware! Here's her answer to a legitimate inquiry on the ad:
Am the owner of the house and my name is Laura Branin ,$800 for the
deposit and $800 for the monthly rent,$80 for the pet deposit,its 2
bedroom,1 bathroom, with lots of appliance for your use and the
utilities included in the rent are water, gas and electric. Its a
lovely home and you will enjoy living in there with your family
without any problem.Here is the address of the house 121 N Huffman St,
Naperville, IL 60540. Please text me on this number for more info.
(281) 9010813
Here's an idea. Flood this number with calls and texts. Let her know she's been called out, and there's a bunch of honest folks who'd love to meet her (him?) personally.