Holding deposit scam?

Viewed a property today-landlord sent us bank details to pay the holding deposit, instead of us using the open rent platform to pay it. I am worried this is a scam. Advise please?

have you checked if he owns the property?

This may well not be scam. Openrent is an advertising portal. Using their tenancy set up ‘RentNow’ process is optional, and many Landlords will want tenants to pay them directly.

I appreciate this provides much uncertainty for prospective tenants, and this is one reason I use RentNow.

You could discuss your concerns with the prospective Landlord. They may be able to provide proof of ownership to you. Or, google ‘Gov Land Registry’ and pay a few quid to get copies of the land registry information which will confirm the name of the owner.

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