Temporary rentals and thefts: a new criminal trend is on the rise in Córdoba

A new criminal method is alerting property owners in Córdoba: they rent temporary homes and steal. They not only target the apartments, but also the neighbors. The situation is especially concerning during the winter season, when tourist demand increases.

According to recent reports, the criminals pose as tenants and then completely empty the apartments. "We are seeing that in recent weeks there have been thieves who rented properties and, upon leaving, emptied them completely," said Lucas Péndola. The president of the Professional Association of Realtors emphasized that they not only took furniture, but also appliances.

Informal contracts and platforms without identity verification facilitate these schemes. Péndola warned: "One doesn't know who is behind a listing." In addition, another scam is being repeated: they offer properties that do not exist and request money deposits.

Scams and distrust are increasing in the temporary rental market

The Association of Realtors advises always verifying the identity of the person offering the property before renting. They also recommend making sure the person is the owner. "If not, the person must have an express mandate from the owner," Péndola indicated.

The use of fake images taken from the internet is a common strategy in these digital scams. The general recommendation is to avoid making advance payments without having seen the property. They also suggest working with licensed real estate agencies and official channels.

Péndola pointed out that the repeal of the Rental Law has impacted the temporary rental market. "Many properties are returning to the traditional model." He said this is due to economic reasons, but also to security concerns.