Too good to be true? Probably.
Starting a new job often means moving to a new city, and moving to a new city means the dreaded task of finding an apartment. Craigslist is clearly the preferred method for renters and landlords to connect, and for the most part this system seems to work well. But beware the scams, the Times tells us today, as they abound these days and aren’t as easy to spot or avoid as they used to be.
One of the most pervasive scams is a keys-for-cash gambit. Carried out online where almost all rental transactions begin these days, this ploy separates would-be renters from their money before they so much as set foot inside a dwelling. In this scheme, information and pictures from legitimate rental or sales listings are lifted from other sites and reposted under another name at an eye-poppingly low rent.
The article focuses on New York, but this happens everywhere. My cousin got scammed moving to DC about a year ago by someone trying to rent an apartment that didn’t even exist and lost her deposit and first month’s rent. Casually scanning for two bedroom apartments on Craigslist not three weeks ago, I came across one of those too-good-to-be-true posts: a beautiful condo in the heart of Dupont for $1300, all utilities included. No way, I thought, must be a scam. But still, I convinced myself, sometimes amazing deals pop up—and if this was one of them, I didn’t want to miss out. So I emailed.
I got a response about a day later from “Nicole Miller,” who told a version of the story referenced in the Times article: in oddly stilted English, “Nicole” said she was the owner of the apartment but now lived in the UK working as a construction engineer. She didn’t have any way to show the apartment except to mail the keys, so I should email back and she’d fill me in on the details of how this would work. She also sent along 10 pictures of what looked to be a truly amazing apartment (one of which is above).
At this point I knew it must be a scam, but I was still intrigued to see what would happen. So I sent a very vague email back, betraying no personal information, and said I’d like to know how to proceed. “Nicole” emailed right back, telling me in lurid detail how I was to set up a “CASE ID# at eBay Company,” an account into which I was to deposit $2600, at which time she’d ship the keys and I’d be able to view the apartment at my leisure and decide whether I wanted it. If yes (and she was sure I’d want it), the lovely people at eBay Company would release my money to her. If not, the money came back to me and I was to ship the keys back to the UK. I decided it was best to cut off communication with “Nicole” at this point.
I also decided to Google her and found that she owns a very similar looking apartment in Santa Monica too.
Anyhow, no larger career message here, other than: if a career change or new job takes you to a new place and you need to find a new apartment (or you’re just looking for a new apartment in general), be careful and beware the scammers.
I find it interesting that these folks rarely get caught. If you were able to find one so easily, don’t you think the authorities would be able to as well? Maybe because the perps are outside of the country there’s nothing local police can do? Still seems odd.
I found the same ad/story, but the lady’s name is Judith Gill. It’s a great condo with that same 1300 price, all utilities included…get this: she lived in the so-called condo for 5 yrs and has just recently moved to the UK with her job (a construction engineer). She also says that there is no one here that can show the apt, and she will need the 1300 first, by setting up an eBay case # id. this was on craigslist two days ago.
Beware the scammers!
I also found this scam on Craig’s List. As a guitar instructor I’ve become hyper aware of internet scams and this one was certainly new to me. I went to the apartment in question to check it out and there were people living at the supposed “evacuated” apartment.
I will continually perpetuate the motto “If it seems to good to be true….”
I also corresponded with “Judith Gill” just yesterday – pretty elaborate scheme, the ad is still on Craigslist and she sends some amazing pictures, enough to make you want to engage in just enough self deception to believe that the too good to be true apartment is indeed true.
This crackhead is still operating folks! I just saw this place on craigslist last night, emailed her, same song and dance…Dupont Circle DC, 2BR all utilities….and she’s “Tonya Wilson” now, still a contrusction engineer, UK, ebay case ID#, $2600….What a hornswoggling miscreant harridan quean doxy!!!
Yup. Posted on LA Craigslist. Here’s her response to my query.
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 10554 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90024.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $1200 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $1200 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
I just got the same exact email from a “Tonya Wilson.” Its for a to good to be true apartment in Hoboken NJ. This is disgusting!!!
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful ph for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 224 Hudson Street, Hoboken, NJ, 07030.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $1000 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $1000 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
I got the same message from Tonya Wilson in Atlanta.
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1700 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 805 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA, 30308, between 5th and 6th street.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $850 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $850 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
Just got the same reply for an apartment in Los Angeles
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 10554 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90024.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $1200 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $1200 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
From: Tonya Wilson
Date: Mon, Sep 7, 2009 at 2:26 AM
Subject: Condo
Same as Ryan, I just got the same exact email from the famous “Tonya Wilson” Be Careful guys!!!
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful ph for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 224 Hudson Street, Hoboken, NJ, 07030.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $1000 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $1000 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
She’s back to “Judith Gill,” and is now in Royal Oak, MI. This article was very helpful in proving that my strange response from “her” was indeed fake.
I received this e-mail from a Patricia Heaton, when I responded to a post on craigslist.com for an apartment in Birmingham, Michigan and the post was updated today. The people who do this are very cleaver when I tried to located the building there were no pictures of the rental place available on-line but only address and phone #. I did a little research and discovered that people have been getting the same e-mail with the same story so I wanted to share the e-mail.
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Patricia Heaton, I’m 44 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 5 years,loved every day of it.It’s located at 211 E Merrill Street, Birmingham.
The condo is fully furnished with all necessary amenities(exactly like in the pics),the unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for the whole condo for 1 month is $800 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is 800$(you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
Then came the 2nd e-mail
Thank you for your reply.
Before going further with anything I must tell you that for payments I will use the eBay Company, they will secure the transaction of payments. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction and I will give them your full name, shipping info, phone# and indicate you as my tenant. After that, they will contact you with the payment details, and they will ask you to send them a refundable deposit, $1600 in 24 hours(the money will be for the first month of rent + the security deposit). After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping of the keys and the contract. You will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit. The keys will reach to you in 3-4 days. After you’ll receive the keys and the contract, the 14 days of inspection period will start( you’ll have 14 days to see the condo, read the contract,
decide if you keep the condo or not.After the inspection you will contact them and tell your decision: TAKE THE CONDO or NOT TAKE THE CONDO! In case you’ll take it you’ll have to send them a copy of the contract signed by you and they will release the money to me, if not you’ll have to send them the contract unsigned and they will refund your money(1600$), the contract and the keys will be shipped back at my expenses! I will pay the shipping and you’ll have to pay the money transfer fee for the refundable deposit.
Once again:
1. If you have the money 1600$ and if you want to rent it send me your full name, your shipping address and your phone#
2. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction , and I will give them your info, and indicate you as my tenant.
3. After that, they will contact you with the payment details(you’ll have to send them 1600$ via money transfer in the next 24 hours-you’ll need cash)
4. After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping, and you will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit.
5.From the moment you receive the keys the 14 days inspection period will start.I will make the transaction only in this way so if you have the money and if you want to rent my condo send me your full name, your shipping address, your phone# and I’ll start
the procedure.
Thank’s
Same as everyone else from Tonya Wilson, but this one was in Hawaii.
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,1 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 45-090 Namoku St,Kaneohe HI 96744.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $900 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $900 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
I almost got fooled by the same exact Patricia Heaton and the same exact emails as described above. Wow. That was close. She (or he or whoever) does have my full name and work address now though. I gave that before I got wise. I agree – the “too good to be true” feeling just made me think twice. This person is operating in Chicago now too, so just be on the lookout anywhere. Do you think she can steal my identity with name and work address? Anyone? Thank God I didn’t give her my SS or credit card number!
Wow – how rotten.
yep, I got the same email. the apt was listed just yesterday on the craiglist. It was from Tonyla wilson. i have copy and paste the email below.
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful ph for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 224 Hudson Street, Hoboken, NJ, 07030.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $1000 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $1000 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
Thanks to everyone for posting their own experiences with this Craig’s List scam. While I didn’t intend it this way, I’m glad this post has been able to serve as a repository of the names these people are using and the cities they’re operating in—hopefully this collection of info will help others avoid these “too good to be true” scams. Keep the comments coming!
Judith Gill, at it again in DC. I knew if was too good to be true but I still had to reply. Here’s what I received:
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Judith Gill,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 5 years,loved every day of it.The prime location can’t be beat, and the garaged parking is an amenity sure to be appreciated by anyone who has lived in a big city. The condo is located in the legendary Parc Somerset at 5630 Wisconsin Ave,Chevy Chase, MD.1 street from Friendship Blvd and N Park Avenue,5 min to Friendship Heights Metro.The condo is fully furnished with all necessary amenities(exactly like in the pics),the unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture) ,there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier…P! ! ets allowed. The kitchen eating area is a large piece of granite that serves as counter space in the kitchen, and as the table in the Living Room side. The counter seats 4 comfortably. The entertainment center is a beautiful credenza that is topped with a brand new 55′ High-Definition lcd tv. The stereo acts as the 5 speaker surround sound for the tv, the radio and cd player. The stereo also is a dvd player and is capable of having an i pod plugged right into a usb port.The Master Bedroom is large with high ceilings, has two windows, a walk-in closet and it has it’s own bathroom. The room has a large, very comfortable Cali-King bed. There are several dressers with an ample amount of drawers. The room also has a desk with several drawers and a file cabinet. The walls are decorated with nice artwork and floating shelves. The bathroom has a large, tiled shower stall behind a glass door. The vanity is covered with a beautiful piece o! ! f granite and between the vanity, shelves and medicine cabinet, there is plenty of space for toiletries.The Guest Bedroom is actually larger than the Master. It has high ceilings, two large closets and a dresser with two matching nightstands. There is one window, a coffee table and a brand new chair and ottoman. Just outside the door two the bedroom is the Guest Bathroom. The guest bath features a large jacuzzi tub and shower. The vanity is large and is covered with granite. There is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier. The area is clean, safe and beautifully.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I h! ! ope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for the whole condo for 1 month is $800 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is 800$(you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
“Tonya Wilson” is also trying to scam people in Santa Cruz:
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1,160 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 208 Bay Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $900 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $900 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
Got the same emails from her. Tonya Wilson. This time it was Seattle. Found her on craigslist.
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(1 bedrooms,1 bathrooms,890 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 2033 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $800 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $800 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
Second email
Thank you for your reply.
Before going further with anything I must tell you that for payments I will use the eBay Company, they will secure the transaction of payments. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction and I will give them your full name, shipping info, phone# and indicate you as my tenant. After that, they will contact you with the payment details, and they will ask you to send them a refundable deposit, $1600 in 24 hours(the money will be for the first month of rent + the security deposit). After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping of the keys and the contract. You will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit. The keys will reach to you in 3-4 days. After you’ll receive the keys and the contract, the 14 days of inspection period will start( you’ll have 14 days to see the condo, read the contract,
decide if you keep the condo or not.After the inspection you will contact them and tell your decision: TAKE THE CONDO or NOT TAKE THE CONDO! In case you’ll take it you’ll have to send them a copy of the contract signed by you and they will release the money to me, if not you’ll have to send them the contract unsigned and they will refund your money(1600 $), the contract and the keys will be shipped back at my expenses! I will pay the shipping and you’ll have to pay the money transfer fee for the refundable deposit.
Once again:
1. If you have the money 1600 $ and if you want to rent it send me your full name, your shipping address and your phone#
2. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction , and I will give them your info, and indicate you as my tenant.
3. After that, they will contact you with the payment details(you’ll have to send them 1600 $ via money transfer in the next 24 hours-you’ll need cash)
4. After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping, and you will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit.
5.From the moment you receive the keys the 14 days inspection period will start.I will make the transaction only in this way so if you have the money and if you want to rent my condo send me your full name, your shipping address, your phone# and I’ll start
the procedure.
Thanks
this sucks. i was excited. shoulda known too good to be true.
Yap we got the same response;
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property. My name is Judith Gill, I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1,297 square footage).It’s located in the heart of 101 Curry Avenue #302, Royal Oak MI, 48067. The prime location can’t be beat and the garaged parking is an amenity sure to be appreciated by anyone. The condo is fully furnished with all necessary amenities(exactly like in the pics),the unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed. I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself. The rent for the whole condo for 1 month is $500 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is 500$(you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
Just found out that Judith Gill is now in Hawaii! Here is her “phone number” she gave to us…0044-776-627-4572. Doubt that number works but hey, it’s a step up from what she gave you guys right?
Listing goes up at $1250 on craigslist (Santa Cruz) for a few hours. I respond via email, go to check the listing and its gone, odd. I get the usual “thank you for your interest” email reply from Tonya Wilson in the UK (construction engineer extraordaire). I reply by email asking for a phone number with which to contact her at so we can discuss how we will work this out, key & rent exchange. This was all performed by the angel on my right shoulder. Meanwhile the devil on my left shoulder is googling Tonya Wilson, Construction Engineer, Santa Cruz, United Kingdom. Its a common enough name. I see the word “scam” in one of them and the devil proved right. Too good to be true. So sad that its false.
[...] in June I posted, a bit randomly for a blog on international careers, about a Craigslist housing scam I’d come across while looking for available apartments in DC. Though I managed to give the [...]
Hey Guys,
This just happened to me today as well. This time it was the Judith Gill in Royal Oak, MI. I knew it was too good to be true, but like many of you had to look deeper into this. Unfortunately, she does have my number and address, but after working in finance for a while I doubt she could do anything with that information.
I figured I would post the e-mails she sent to me since there were a few.
Hello,
E-mail 1 –>
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property. My name is Judith Gill, I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1,297 square footage).It’s located in the heart of 101 Curry Avenue #302, Royal Oak MI, 48067. The prime location can’t be beat and the garaged parking is an amenity sure to be appreciated by anyone. The condo is fully furnished with all necessary amenities(exactly like in the pics),the unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed. I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself. The rent for the whole condo for 1 month is $500 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is 500$(you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
E-mail 2 –>
Thank you for your reply.
Before going further with anything I must tell you that for payments I will use the eBay Company, they will secure the transaction of payments. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction and I will give them your full name, shipping info, phone# and indicate you as my tenant. After that, they will contact you with the payment details, and they will ask you to send them a refundable deposit, $1000 in 24 hours(the money will be for the first month of rent + the security deposit). After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping of the keys and the contract. You will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit. The keys will reach to you in 3-4 days. After you’ll receive the keys and the contract, the 14 days of inspection period will start( you’ll have 14 days to see the condo, read the contract,
decide if you keep the condo or not.After the inspection you will contact them and tell your decision: TAKE THE CONDO or NOT TAKE THE CONDO !In case you’ll take it you’ll have to send them a copy of the contract signed by you and they will release the money to me, if not you’ll have to send them the contract unsigned and they will refund your money(1000$), the contract and the keys will be shipped back at my expenses! I will pay the shipping and you’ll have to pay the money transfer fee for the
refundable deposit.
Once again:
1. If you have the money 1000$ and if you want to rent it send me your full name, your shipping address and your phone#
2. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction , and I will give them your info, and indicate you as my tenant.
3. After that, they will contact you with the payment details(you’ll have to send them 1000$ via money transfer in the next 24 hours-you’ll need cash)
4. After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping, and you will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit.
5.From the moment you receive the keys the 14 days inspection period will start.I will make the transaction only in this way so if you have the money and if you want to rent my condo send me your full name, your shipping address, your phone# and I’ll start
the procedure.
Thanks
I have contacted Craigslist’s legal department, and would like to organize some kind of action. Ideas anyone? I have family working in high ranking legal positions. This is awful that nothing has been done yet to stop this stupid scam, don’t you think?
I just went through this too same exact thing as above. this did seem way to good to be true o well good thing we arent all that stupid to just send over $1000 to some jack***! that cant get a real job like the rest of us
I wrote to “Patricia Heaton” regarding a condo in Chicago and got the SAME email reply that many of you have posted. I’m glad I only this person only has my email address! What a horrible scam!
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Patricia Heaton,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 5 years,loved every day of it.The prime location can’t be beat, and the garaged parking is an amenity sure to be appreciated by anyone who has lived in a big city. The condo is located at 653 N Kingsbury St,close to restaurants, shopping, nightlife, East Bank Club, parks and everything Chicago has to offer .The condo is fully furnished with all necessary amenities(exactly like in the pics),the unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture) ,there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier…Pets allowed.
The kitchen eating area is a large piece of granite that serves as counter space in the kitchen, and as the table in the Living Room side. The counter seats 4 comfortably. The entertainment center is a beautiful credenza that is topped with a brand new 55′ High-Definition lcd tv. The stereo acts as the 5 speaker surround sound for the tv, the radio and cd player. The stereo also is a dvd player and is capable of having an i pod plugged right into a usb port.The Master Bedroom is large with high ceilings, has two windows, a walk-in closet and it has it’s own bathroom. The room has a large, very comfortable Cali-King bed. There are several dressers with an ample amount of drawers. The room also has a desk with several drawers and a file cabinet. The walls are decorated with nice artwork and floating shelves. The bathroom has a large, tiled shower stall behind a glass door. The vanity is covered with a beautiful piece of granite and between the vanity, shelves and medicine cabinet, there is plenty of space for toiletries.The Guest Bedroom is actually larger than the Master. It has high ceilings, two large closets and a dresser with two matching nightstands. There is one window, a coffee table and a brand new chair and ottoman. Just outside the door two the bedroom is the Guest Bathroom. The guest bath features a large jacuzzi tub and shower. The vanity is large and is covered with granite. There is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier. The area is clean, safe and beautifully.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for the whole condo for 1 month is $800 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is 800$(you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards
Isn’t Patricia Heaton the actress of Everybody Loves Raymond fame?
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(1 bedrooms,1 bathrooms,890 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 2033 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $800 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $800 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
DO NOT TRUST TONYA WILSON!!!!!!!!!!!! I got the same exact email as all of you above and it is soo scary, everyone out there looking to rent be careful there are so many freaks out there.
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1,160 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 208 Bay Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $1000 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $1000 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
SAME THING..WATCH OUT SANTA CRUZ!!!!
“Tonya” still going strong… I wonder how many people she/he has scammed so far…
Thank you for your reply.
Before going further with anything I must tell you that for payments I will use the eBay Company, they will secure the transaction of payments. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction and I will give them your full name, shipping info, phone# and indicate you as my tenant. After that, they will contact you with the payment details, and they will ask you to send them a refundable deposit, $1700 in 24 hours(the money will be for the first month of rent + the security deposit). After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping of the keys and the contract. You will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit. The keys will reach to you in 3-4 days. After you’ll receive the keys and the contract, the 14 days of inspection period will start( you’ll have 14 days to see the condo, read the contract,
decide if you keep the condo or not.After the inspection you will contact them and tell your decision: TAKE THE CONDO or NOT TAKE THE CONDO! In case you’ll take it you’ll have to send them a copy of the contract signed by you and they will release the money to me, if not you’ll have to send them the contract unsigned and they will refund your money(1700$), the contract and the keys will be shipped back at my expenses! I will pay the shipping and you’ll have to pay the money transfer fee for the refundable deposit.
Once again:
1. If you have the money 1700$ and if you want to rent it send me your full name, your shipping address and your phone#
2. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction , and I will give them your info, and indicate you as my tenant.
3. After that, they will contact you with the payment details(you’ll have to send them 1700$ via money transfer in the next 24 hours-you’ll need cash)
4. After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping, and you will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit.
5.From the moment you receive the keys the 14 days inspection period will start.I will make the transaction only in this way so if you have the money and if you want to rent my condo send me your full name, your shipping address, your phone# and I’ll start
the procedure.
Thanks
same exact email as above…thank god I did a background chk !
“Patricia Heaton” is also operating in Philadelphia using the same tactics, beware…
The name they’re using now for this scam is Patricia Heaton.
I just received the exct sam eemail for a place in Santa Monica, Ca that replied to from craigslist. I thought it all sounded a little to good to be true from the get go, but I thought why not check it out. Once i got a response from “Tonya Wilson” I decided to google her name/occupation and I found all of this interesting information.
Crazy!!!!!
I just got the exact same email from Judith Gill. I’m so glad I googled her “name” and found this article. Judith Gill is going strong in DC:
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property. My name is Judith Gill,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage) .This beautiful condo is located in the vibrant commercial neighborhood of Arlington : 1020 N Highland St at Washington Blvd,1 block from 10th St,1 block from N Hudson St,2 blocks from Clarendon Blvd,only 2 min from Clarendon M station.. The condo is fully furnished with all necessary amenities(exactly like in the pics),Brazilian cherry floors; Luxurious kitchen with Viking appliances, large kitchen island and Poggen Pohl cabinets; master bedroom/master bath includes an oversized marble soaking tub and separate shower; California Closets walk-in closet in master bedroom; Second bedroom/den with second full bath.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for the whole condo for 1 month is $1300 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is 1300$(you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
OMG! I saw this on Craigslist for a place in Royal Oak and it was the same deal Judith Gill, 500 a month blah, blah. I feel so bad as I’m sure some people fall for this type of scam! It sure did seem “to good to be true” and that’s eaxctly what I wrote this person. Crazy!
Judith Gill is still out there on craigslist folks, again in the Northern Virginia/DC metro area. I got the same number ‘0044-776-627-4572′ and it just so happens that I actually am in the UK. I offered to travel and meet her face to face to work out the details but she totally ignored this proposition. I tried the number – it’s not valid. Surprise, surprise.
Thank you to everyone for helping me with your stories and information. I recieved the same email above from Judith Gill for a condo in 31561 Tablerock, #304 Laguna Ca 92651 and her phone number (0044)776-627-4572. Looked up her email judygill00gjthy@hotmail.comand this person in in WA somwhere. I do hope my post help someone to prevent them from being scammed and to get that much closer to helping find this person, so legal action can be taken.
Same DC Parc Somerset from Judith Gill as multiple posters above. What a creep!
She is still at it… Thank you all for these posts! I appreciate it greatly!
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful ph for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 224 Hudson Street, Hoboken, NJ, 07030.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $1000 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $1000 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
“Judith Gill” tried the scam on me here in San Diego with the same two emails on Craigslist today. It sounded too good to be true so I googled Judith Gill Construction Engineer which led me here. Thanks everyone.
one here is Seattle. just like the others, and the exact same place as SA above, only for $600 instead of $800. i guess they’re getting more desperate…
“Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(1 bedrooms,1 bathrooms,890 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 2033 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $600 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $600 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,”
disgusting. my excitement almost clouded my judgement, but then i stopped and thought about it a moment. “yeah, this has to be a scam.” then i found this. thank you!
Tonya Wilson scam on Seattle’s craigslist:
from Tonya Wilson
to xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
date Sun, Nov 1, 2009 at 11:36 PM
subject Condo furnished
mailed-by live.com
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Tonya Wilson,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(1 bedrooms,1 bathrooms,890 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 2 years, loved every day of it.It’s located in 2033 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for whole the condo for 1 month is $600 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is $600 (you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
Same email from Tonya Wilson for a Hudson Hoboken condo.
I am happy to find this page and he/she/it only had my email address.
Same emails, three different listings. Daria was the first name in one, then the last name in another. Then the Judith Gill name. All for 3 different apartments in Hawaii. Thanks for the warning! One is even listed on eBay. No phone numbers though.
This is classic! So I had previously hit a Tonya Wilson advert so when this one came through I immediately responded and read along for a good laugh:
========================================
$850 / 2br – 2 BR Luxury Apartament for rent : 131 Dudley St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (131 Dudley St. Jersey City, NJ 07302)
xxxx@gmail.com to hous-cktkz-145.
show details 20:02 (1 hour ago)
I’m very interested in this unit. What’s the availability? Would I be able to see it this weekend?
http://newyork.craigslist.org/jsy/abo/1454741374.html
================================================
Melissa Gulifrod to me
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my apartment.My name is Melissa Guilford,I’m 35 years old and I’m the owner of this apartment(2 bedroom,2 bathroom,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful apartment for over 2 years and loved every day of it.The unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the apartment come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture),there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier.Pets allowed.I can rent you the apartment for max. 9 years and minimum 3 months .I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent of the apartment for 1 month is $850 including all utilities(water,electricity, Internet,cable, parking,air conditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage).
Since my husband passed away I moved with my business to Italy , and now I`m living in Milano. I haven’t had pets, i kept the apt clean. This would be a perfect apartment for you. The only problem is that we will have to use an eBay Agency to complete this deal, an agency which will look for our best interest. I already arranged with Rent.com where i already left the keys and rental contract signed by me, to use their escrow service, a service which will handle the payment and shipping for us.
If you are interested in renting my apartment please REPLY BACK and i will send you all the details about how Rent.com works, step by step.
Thank you!
Reply
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xxxx@gmail.com to Melissa
show details 20:56 (21 minutes ago)
Tanya sorry to hear about your husband, I guess construction in the UK didn’t work out for you.
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Melissa Gulifrod to me
And? you are interested ?
Judeth Gill renting anything is a scam. Daniel Miles is also a Scam. Melissa Guilord is also a scam!
If I can ever get my hands on the person(s) that are trying to do this, including any ass of a Prince of an African Nation as well, I will champion for all of us here and those that fell for it.
6+ Billion people in this world and most of them are good. A few of them need to taken care of though.
~Michael
I got one too she claims her name is Seana Davidson and a construction engineer in the UK with a 2bedroom 2 bath place in arlington, VA. same scam $1300 a month, she set up an ebay-rental thing wanting $2600 and we have 14 days to see the place and if we dont want it we can return the keys and get a refund. But she did give us her phone number 0044-776-627-4572 but said she is in a bad area and gets bad reception. after emailing a bunch of times asking questions that she wouldnt answer. Same basic info too as all the other emails posted here.
Judith Gill almost got us too!! Same email as above same ebay crap!! We would NEVER send $$ so we googled her
This is the email that came up!!! THANK YOU SOOO MUCH!!! I hope more people read these emails!!!
Hello,
Thanks for taking the time to look at my property.My name is Judith Gill,I’m 43 years old,I’m a construction engineer and I’m the owner of this condo(2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,1100 square footage).I lived in this beautiful condo for over 5 years,loved every day of it.The prime location can’t be beat, and the garaged parking is an amenity sure to be appreciated by anyone who has lived in a big city. The condo is located in the legendary Parc Somerset at 5630 Wisconsin Ave,Chevy Chase, MD.1 street from Friendship Blvd and N Park Avenue,5 min to Friendship Heights Metro.The condo is fully furnished with all necessary amenities(exactly like in the pics),the unit is equipped with recessed lighting, central air and heat, the condo come with two parking spots,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you don’t like it and you want use your furniture) ,there is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier…Pets allowed. The kitchen eating area is a large piece of granite that serves as counter space in the kitchen, and as the table in the Living Room side. The counter seats 4 comfortably. The entertainment center is a beautiful credenza that is topped with a brand new 55′ High-Definition lcd tv. The stereo acts as the 5 speaker surround sound for the tv, the radio and cd player. The stereo also is a dvd player and is capable of having an i pod plugged right into a usb port.The Master Bedroom is large with high ceilings, has two windows, a walk-in closet and it has it’s own bathroom. The room has a large, very comfortable Cali-King bed. There are several dressers with an ample amount of drawers. The room also has a desk with several drawers and a file cabinet. The walls are decorated with nice artwork and floating shelves. The bathroom has a large, tiled shower stall behind a glass door. The vanity is covered with a beautiful piece of granite and between the vanity, shelves and medicine cabinet, there is plenty of space for toiletries.The Guest Bedroom is actually larger than the Master. It has high ceilings, two large closets and a dresser with two matching nightstands. There is one window, a coffee table and a brand new chair and ottoman. Just outside the door two the bedroom is the Guest Bathroom. The guest bath features a large jacuzzi tub and shower. The vanity is large and is covered with granite. There is also a linen closet, and most importantly, a new front loading stacked washer and drier. The area is clean, safe and beautifully.I’ve moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is very expensive here.The price is so low because I’m here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the condo for min. 1 month and max. 6 years(or more).I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal information about yourself.The rent for the whole condo for 1 month is $800 including all utilities(water,electricity, internet, cable, parking , airconditioning, fireplace, dishwasher, garbage) and the security deposit is 800$(you’ll get the deposit back at your departure-or you can use it to pay your last month of rent) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account. You can move in the condo in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who has the keys and I have nobody in United States that could show you the condo. In order to check it, see if you like it(I’m sure that you’ll love it), you need to receive the keys and the contract.
If you want to rent the condo, please e-mail me back and I will explain you how the payment and shipping will take place!
Regards,
Thank you for your reply.
Before going further with anything I must tell you that for payments I will use the eBay Company, they will secure the transaction of payments. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction and I will give them your full name, shipping info, phone# and indicate you as my tenant. After that, they will contact you with the payment details, and they will ask you to send them a refundable deposit, $1600 in 24 hours(the money will be for the first month of rent + the security deposit). After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping of the keys and the contract. You will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit. The keys will reach to you in 3-4 days. After you’ll receive the keys and the contract, the 14 days of inspection period will start( you’ll have 14 days to see the condo, read the contract,
decide if you keep the condo or not.After the inspection you will contact them and tell your decision: TAKE THE CONDO or NOT TAKE THE CONDO !In case you’ll take it you’ll have to send them a copy of the contract signed by you and they will release the money to me, if not you’ll have to send them the contract unsigned and they will refund your money(1600$), the contract and the keys will be shipped back at my expenses! I will pay the shipping and you’ll have to pay the money transfer fee for the
refundable deposit.
Once again:
1. If you have the money 1600$ and if you want to rent it send me your full name, your shipping address and your phone#
2. I will open a CASE ID# at eBay Company for this transaction , and I will give them your info, and indicate you as my tenant.
3. After that, they will contact you with the payment details(you’ll have to send them 1600$ via money transfer in the next 24 hours-you’ll need cash)
4. After they receive your deposit, they will notify me immediately to start the shipping, and you will receive a tracking number in max 12 hours after they receive your deposit.
5.From the moment you receive the keys the 14 days inspection period will start.I will make the transaction only in this way so if you have the money and if you want to rent my condo send me your full name, your shipping address, your phone# and I’ll start
the procedure.
Thanks
ALLLLL FROM JUDITH AND THE SAMED AS ABOVE!!! Scary stuff!