Scammers list South Salinas home for rent online

Neighbors in one South Salinas neighborhood noticed more prospective home renters stopping by than normal. ” I knew there was something wrong because it was so unusual, ” said a neighbor who wanted to
remain anonymous.

The neighbor said she caught multiple people peeping into the windows of the house next door. She revealed the property they are looking at isn’t actually on the market. She said she has spoken to many of the visitors, herself. ” They don’t like to accept that the house is not for rent. They’re determined, ” said the neighbor.

Come to find out, the house was put up for rent on Facebook Marketplace. A man by the name of Cristian Lopez listed it for $1,800 a month. Salinas police officer Robert Durst said this would be a steal in the neighborhood. ” I think it would be a red flag, especially on the South side of Salinas, that a house is put up for rent for $1,800. I mean, apartments are going for $1,800, ” said Durst.

Durst said people are still falling for the scam. He said the home’s owner confirmed she isn’t planning on moving out. He is urging people to think twice before giving money to anyone online. ” They should be willing to meet with you in person, give you a tour, an application, a contract, ” said Durst.

Police have yet to locate the person behind the scam. Until then, neighbors plan to post signs around the block to spread the word. ” They’re trying to find a place to live. I just feel really sorry for them that they don’t know what’s going on, ” said the neighbor.

No one has come forward to admit that they lost money to the scam. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Salinas Police Department.