Mercer and Auglaize County residents urged to watch for Facebook Marketplace rental scams

A rental scam reported in Logan County is a reminder for Mercer and Auglaize County residents to be extra cautious when searching for housing online, especially through Facebook Marketplace.

The Bellefontaine Police Department says it took a report last week after a victim believed they were renting an apartment on East Sandusky Avenue in Bellefontaine. The listing had been advertised on Facebook Marketplace, and the victim sent $800 plus a $120 application fee through Facebook Messenger.

Police say the person posing as the renter later asked for an additional $500 for utilities and a homeowners association fee, which raised suspicions. The victim and a friend requested the $920 already paid be returned but reportedly received no response.

Attempts to contact the renter through FaceTime were unsuccessful, with calls repeatedly disconnected. The victim also went to the apartment in person and saw a “For Rent” sign in the yard, but police say they never met the renter face to face. The renter reportedly said they would only meet after the additional $500 was paid.

Bellefontaine Police continue to investigate and are reminding the public to be cautious with online rental transactions. Locally, residents are encouraged to verify who they are dealing with before sending money, meet in person when possible, confirm the person has the legal right to rent the property, and avoid paying fees through messaging apps or peer to peer payment methods before a lease is signed.