What is the "Fake Rental Property Listings Targeting Long-Stay Visitors" scam in San Miguel de Allende?

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Accepted Answer

San Miguel de Allende attracts a significant population of long-stay US and Canadian visitors seeking monthly or seasonal furnished rentals. Fraudulent listings appear on Craigslist and Facebook groups using stolen photos of real colonial properties, collecting first and last month deposits before disappearing. The premium rental market in San Miguel — where monthly rates for good colonial homes range from $1,500 to $4,000 — makes this a high-value fraud target. Use established local real estate agencies with physical offices in San Miguel rather than online listings from unknown individuals. Never wire deposit money before physically visiting the property with a verifiable owner. Ask for a rental contract with a Mexican RFC tax ID number.

Online Scams in San Miguel de Allende

Fake Rental Property Listings Targeting Long-Stay Visitors

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