WILLOUGHBY, Ohio — The Willoughby Police Department is warning residents of a recent home rental scam happening in Lake County.
Police officials told 3News that they were made aware of two separate incidents in Willoughby, including one where a man lost $1,000.
Police say a couple from Geauga County found a rental listing on Facebook Marketplace for a residence at 3092 Lost Nation Road. The couple contacted the property manager, who identified himself as Kyle Averson.
After completing a self-guided tour of the residence, the couple decided to proceed with the lease. Police say they provided personal information for a background check and were immediately approved. Averson then asked the couple to send $1,295 for the first month's rent and a security deposit via Zelle.
According to police, the couple attempted to send the money, but their bank stopped the transaction because it was suspicious.
"They became suspicious and were able to locate the actual rental agency, Imagine Homes. They spoke with someone from the company who advised them that Averson does not work for them. They checked further and found the same house on other legitimate rental websites for $1,995," Willoughby police said.
A man from Perry also found the same rental listing on Facebook Marketplace and contacted Averson, whose Facebook picture is of actor Michael J. Fox. The man toured the house and decided to rent the home from Averson.
"He was emailed a rental contract and was instructed to send $1,000. The male did so via the Walmart-to-Walmart payment system. He arrived at the residence shortly after and waited to retrieve his keys, but no one arrived," Willoughby police said.
At this time, Willoughby police are continuing to investigate the incidents.
