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How to Spot a Scam

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Beware of John & Mary Coleman

We are reporting a new apartment scam that is targeting the CL Honolulu postings.

Name: John & Mary Coleman
Email: jcbaptrental@yahoo.com, maptrent@googlemail.com

On 4/27/09 A CL user submitted the following:

Here's another one - same scam as the Jeffrey Brown one: John and Mary Coleman advertising for well under the normal pricing for specific apartments in Honolulu, also claiming the West Africa, missions deal with keys and paperwork elsewhere. The email addresses they used for me on 4/15/09 are: jcbaptrental@yahoo.com; maptrent@googlemail.com

67 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thank you for warning me about John and Mary Coleman. I emailed them if I could check their place out but once I read the email it was clearly a scam because it was full of broken English and grammatical errors. Then they showed pictures that were not anything like the ones on craigslist. Another thing was they were out of the states and had all the paperwork and keys so there would be no way to look at the place. They wanted to send me an application but I knew it was too good to be true so I came here and found them as scam artists!
Thank you!!

Unknown said...

They're now targeting the Pasadena area:
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sgv/apa/1155805106.html

J said...

just got in contact with them too!
ill play along and see what they say.
this one is in LA.

Anonymous said...

Hi,

I'd like to report another scam by John and Mary Coleman. This time in Boston advertising an apartment well below the average market price. They tried giving me the run around that John is on a crusade in West Africa and Mary is in a wheelchair in Oregon so they could not even show me the apartment until I hand over a check or all my personal information.

Thank you so much for exposing these scam artists and bringing them to light.

Anonymous said...

I forgot to add their email addresses....

Mary - mrycoleman@gmail.com
John - williamshill101@gmail.com

He goes by William Hill and John Coleman

M.McCown said...

John and Mary Coleman also have been posting in Chicago. Clearly a scam. It's so obvious and pathetic. I hope this site prevents people from being taken advantage of.

Anonymous said...

They are targetting Beverly Hills area now, with ad saying "Re: $550 Spacious room for rent (Beverly hills)"

M.M. said...

Please add a Pastor Steven Cammons / Steven McCammons at the email address: stevenmccammons79@gmail.com. I seem to be collecting them now, but it's always pretty much the same story...off in west africa with the keys, need info about renter including how much money they can get up front!

YY said...

Wow, thank you for warning. I just got their e-mail about the apartment in Beverly Hills. It seems a too great deal.
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/roo/1169067248.html

The similar story ...

jules916 said...

I knew it was too good to be true.....In the San Diego area, found them on Craigs list...The are really anal about being responsible, clean and what not. Same story, Wife in Oregon and Husband in Africa.
Mary's email is info_bobby@yahoo.com and John's email is john.coleman62@yahoo.com.
I'm gonna keep them going as long as I can, this is fun...just kidding!

Anonymous said...

thanks for the heads up about these two..I had a feeling it was too good to be true

Anonymous said...

They are advertising a place in Beverley Hills right now as well. Too bad . . . I was excited!

Anonymous said...

I just now am receiving e-mail contact with them. Felt fishy, looked it up and came upon this site. This is for an apartment in Pasadena and I believe on in El Monte. They used a similar photo and had the same price on both, so that immediately seemed weird AND it was for quite cheap and you would get the full apartment.
The e-mail addresses they're using are Mary: info_bobby@yahoo.com and John: coleman.john2244@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

jonh and mary coleman are also trying to scam people in washington. please watch out for them.

Anonymous said...

They are also targeting the Long Beach area and mostly inncoent people.They are scammers! Something kept telling me the offer was too good to be true they also attached the wrong pictures of the place.I had googled their names and this site popped up and iam so greatful for it!

Anonymous said...

BEWARE OF THESE SCAMMERS (JOHN & MARY COLEMAN)

I spotted them really quickly because of the deals they offered in renting an apt in BEVERLY HILLS ($700 for 1bd/1brm) is too good to be true here are some attached emails for your reference...

---------------------------------
1st email from John,

Hello,

Thanks for your email and it is my gladness to hear from you.I am John Coleman,the owner of the Apartment you are making inquiry on.Actually I resided in the apartment with my family,presently we moved away due to my transfer from my working place, my apartment is still available for rent for $680 per month including the utilities like hydro,washer and security,it is furnished.More so Now, I went for a Crusade in the West Africa and i will like you to get in touch with my wife in the states for more discussion as She is with the keys and the documents to the Apartment.Pls i want you to note that,i am a kind and honest man and also i spent a lot on my property that i want to give you for rent,so i will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and want you to treat it as your own,is that taken,I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i come for a check up.I do that once in a while.I want have trust in you as i always stand by my words.Where are you located? let us know how soon you are willing to move in.Email my wife Mary, on (maryinforental@gmail.com) and she will attend to you better.

ADDRESS TO THE APARTMENT :230 S Hamilton Dr Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA

Thanks for your interest.
John Coleman

Anonymous said...

---------------------------------
2nd email from his wife, Mary...

Thanks for the email.My husband own the apartment, also want you to know that it was due to my husband's transfer that made us to leave the apartment and also want to give it out for rent and looking for a responsible person that can take good care of the apartment, we are not after the money for the rent but want it to be clean all the time ..So for now,I am in Fairview Oregon in the United States in our new home and also I am with the keys and documents of the apartment,we tried to look for an agent that we can give this documents before we left but could not see and we don't want the apartment to be used any how in our absence that is why we took the keys and documents along with us here and as you know that,my husband over in the West Africa for a mission of God,so i hope you will promise us to take very good care of the apartment.So get back to me on how you could take care of our apartment or perhaps experience you have in renting a home.Hope you are okay with the price per month with hydro,heat laundry facilities,air condition, internet connection and so on.View pictures in the attached files.I am looking forward to hearing from you ASAP so that i can forward you an application to fill out and discuss on how to get the apartment for rent.

Hope to read from you soon
Mary Coleman

Anonymous said...

3rd email from Mary again...

Good hearing from you that you are promising us that our apartment will be well taken care off , and I really appreciate your expression. So, like I told you there's none of my friends or relatives to show you the apartment .I want you to stick to your words. Is that okay with you? And the below is the final question that you must answer to qualify for the rent. Hope you had a nice working day, In fact I will like to meet you when coming to visit you soonest, You will not be able to see inside of the apartment. We do a long term and short term renting anytime you which to leave the place will be grateful and we are ready to rent as long as you want. Note that you will are not allowed to enter the apartment now until everything is being finalize as the keys/document is here with me in Fairview Oregon.We own the actual apartment.

********RENT APPLICATION FORM********

(Private & Confidential)

Also, Please let me get these answers.

1) Your Full Name
2) Present Full Address (where you reside now) & Phone Number to Reach You
3) Age
4) Are you married?
5) How many people will be living in the house?
6) Do you have a pet?
7) Do you have a car?
8) Occupation?
9) Citizen of which Country?
10) When are you ready to Move in ?
11) When are u planning to leave the apartment ?
12) How many months rent can you deposit upfront (plus security
deposit.

Looking forward to hear from you with all this details for approval so that I can have it in my file in case of issuing the receipt in your name and contacting you .Await your urgent reply so that we can discuss on how to get the documents and the keys to you, Please we are giving you all this transaction is based on Trust & Honesty and again I want you to stick to your words, We are putting everything into Gods hand, so please do not let us down in this property of ours and God bless you more as you do this.

N:B : We are doing this because of God as a good Christian, If you can pay two months, you will get one month free , I had an accident which affected my hearing and my legs , I am currently on a wheel chair right now, I do not use a phone that's why I am always online, if you are interested, you can fill out the rent application below and get back to me as soon as possible. You can also give my husband a call on +2347088797945.

Note:- we're only looking for someone who is ready to move in as soon as possible since our apartment is free right now and we will be giving out a month free .

Thanks so much and have a nice day.
Mary Coleman

-------------------------------

Their emails (always changing):
maryinforental@gmail.com
randleapartment@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

Wow, thank you so much and God Bless you for saving me the pain of getting scammed by these rip offs....I had a bad feeling and when I saw all you wrote I am so thankfull......Please people watch out for John and Mary Coleman.....they suck!

Anonymous said...

Now they are in Beverly Hills.
230 S Hamilton Dr Beverly Hills, CA 90201, USA
maryinforental@gmail.com
greteapartment@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

Yeah... the posting sounded too good to be true. I googled and came across this site. Thanks a lot! They are targeting Long Beach area now.

Beware!

John and Mary Coleman
johncoleman28@yahoo.com
info_bobby@yahoo.com

Unknown said...

More of the same in Santa Cruz California. Thank you for making this post it is the number one hit on google for "Mary Coleman" and apartment.

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much.. I had a bad hunch after I started receiving their emails. A few things were repeatedly emphasized -- (1)No one available to show you the inside of the apt; (2)Must Fill out confidential form/Pay upfront; (3)Only placing their trust on you because they are Good Christians; (4)Playing the sympathy card, an accident resulted in Mary being in a wheelchair with some hearing loss.

Anonymous said...

thats so funny thanks for the hens up i was trying to rent a apartment in Beverly from john Thanks for your email and it is my gladness to hear from you.I am John Coleman,the owner of the Apartment you are making inquiry on.Actually I resided in the apartment with my family,presently we moved away due to my transfer from my working place, my apartment is still available for rent for $500 per month including the utilities like hydro,washer and security,it is furnished.More so Now, I went for a Crusade in the West Africa and i will like you to get in touch with my wife in the states for more discussion as She is with the keys and the documents to the Apartment.Pls i want you to note that,i am a kind and honest man and also i spent a lot on my property that i want to give you for rent,so i will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and want you to treat it as your own,is that taken,I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i come for a check up.I do that once in a while.I want have trust in you as i always stand by my words.Where are you located? let us know how soon you are willing to move in.Email my wife Mary, on (maryinforental@yahoo.com) and she will attend to you better.

Anonymous said...

I got some new ones for your list...Josh Amstel and Kenny Works, both trying to encourage me to use Walmart MG (Money Grams) and I got a huge check, no note or anything, which my bank soon identified as a fake. Thank God I did not use it. These guys got my name from a Craigslist survey spot for sure.

June 11, 2009 Portland, OR

Anonymous said...

almost fell for it too in the Santa Cruz, CA area...they are using these emails...

johnrental223@yahoo.com
info_bobby@yahoo.com

bunch of punks...

Anonymous said...

I am glad that I found this site... I almost got scammed.

Yeah, like some people said, below address is their target now. Be aware!!

ADDRESS TO THE APARTMENT : 280 South Euclid Avenue Pasadena, CA 91101

1st email from them is this:
John Coleman:johnrental223@yahoo.com wrote:
Hello,
Thanks for your email and it is my gladness to hear from you.I am John
Coleman,the owner of the Apartment you are making inquiry on.Actually I resided in the apartment with my family,presently we moved away due to my transfer from my working place, my apartment is still available for rent for $550 per month including the utilities like hydro,washer and security,it is furnished.More so Now, I went for a Crusade in the West Africa and i will like you to get in touch with my wife in the states for more discussion as She is with the keys and the documents to the Apartment.Pls i want you to note that,i am a kind and honest man and also i spent a lot on my property that i want to give you for rent,so i will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and want you to treat it as your own,is that taken,I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i come for a check up.I do that once in a while.I want have trust in you as i always stand by my words.Where are you located? let us know how soon you are willing to move in.Email my wife Mary, on (info_bobby@yahoo.com) and she will attend to you better.
ADDRESS TO THE APARTMENT : 280 South Euclid Avenue Pasadena, CA 91101

Thanks for your interest.
John Coleman

Anonymous said...

John and Mary Coleman tried to rent me an apartment in Santa Cruz and said i couldnt see it. Luckily the apt complex had open apts that I could see and the looked nothing like the pics they sent me. Then when they said it was all happening throught the mail I was like this has to be a scam, and I found this sight! Thanks for posting. Does anyone know how to get these guys caught. I decided to humor them further to try and get some incriminating info to possibly send to authorities. Here's the payment sending info they sent me if anyone know the right people to send this to and help get them caught please let me know or do so THANKS:

You are going to send the 2 months rent and security deposit payment of $1,360 payment to my husband secretryin West Africa.. Below is the information to send the payment through Western Union at any local store Nearest to you.just go to any local store or postal office.pls make sure that all the informations are correctly spelt.

Receivers Name :-Tunde Martins

Address :- 6th Ave Church St

City : Ikeja

State :- Lagos

Country :- Nigeria

Zipcode :- 23401

Text Question :- Keys

Text Answer :- Documents

Amount Send :- $1,360

LETS GET THESE SCUMMY PEOPLE CAUGHT!!

Anonymous said...

John and Mary Coleman are at it in Huntington Beach as well. Offering an apartment for well below market value. Here's the email I recieved from rdapartment@yahoo.com when inquiring about the apartment:

Hello,

Thanks for your email and it is my gladness to hear from you.I am John Coleman,the owner of the Apartment you are making inquiry on.Actually I resided in the apartment with my family,presently we moved away due to my transfer from my working place, my apartment is still available for rent for $660 per month including the utilities like hydro,washer and security,it is furnished.More so Now, I went for a Crusade in the West Africa and i will like you to get in touch with my wife in the states for more discussion as She is with the keys and the documents to the Apartment.Pls i want you to note that,i am a kind and honest man and also i spent a lot on my property that i want to give you for rent,so i will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and want you to treat it as your own,is that taken,I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i come for a check up.I do that once in a while.I want have trust in you as i always stand by my words.Where are you located? let us know how soon you are willing to move in.Email my wife Mary, on (maryinforental@gmail.com) and she will attend to you better.

ADDRESS TO THE APARTMENT : 310 15th St Huntington Beach, CA 92648


Thanks for your interest.
John Coleman

These people suck.

Anonymous said...

Hello, Oh my gosh!! I started emailing John and Mary. The place just seemed tooooo good to be true. And I felt like it all was not adding up. Mary is a quick responder isn't she. From reading through the blog, her third reply is the same. She did give a number to reach her husband at, but I doubt it is legit like anything else they say. I am just not sure if I should be worried with the information of mine they do already have.
But thanks for this site, it saved me a lot of time, I might of wasted. I sure as hell would not of sent them any money!! But people can do damage with just the little information they have on you!

Unknown said...

Still up to no good...here is there most recent posting. Beautiful place to bad is a scam!
http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/apa/1239852855.html

Anonymous said...

Well John's wife has been changed to KATE and now around Sherman Oaks, CA.

Below is the same e-mail that most people have received. I've been e-mailing Mary re: another apartment and I don't think she knows her name has been changed to Kate.

Please contact FTC (Federal Trade Commission) and report these people.

Here is one of several e-mails I have received from these people re: 1 of 3 apartments I've replied about. Funny thing is that it belongs to the same person and he lived in all with his family but has just moved to Oregon and he is West Africa.

Thanks for your email and it is my gladness hearing from you.I am John Coleman ,the owner of the Apartment you are making inquiry of. Actually I resided in the Apartment with my family,such as my wife and my only daughter before and presently we had packed due to my transfer from my working place and now situated in West Africa, and presently my Apartment is still available for rent for $780 Per Month(inclusive),including the utilities like hydro,washer and security,it is well furnished.More so Now, i went for a Crusade in the West Africa and i will like you to get in touch with my wife for more discussion as She is with the keys and the document to the house. Pls i want you to note that,i am a kind and honest man and also i spent a lot on my property that i want to give you for rent,so i will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this house and want you to treat it as your own,is that taken,it is not the money the main problem but want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i come for a check up,i do that once in a while.I also want you to let me have trust in you as i always stand on my word.Where are you located and where do you see our advert also let us know if you need more pictures..
 
Email my wife Kate, on (katecoleman1@yahoo.co.uk) and she will attends to you better.
 
This is the Address to the Apartment: 4735 Sepulveda Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 

Thanks and you are welcome..
John Coleman

Anonymous said...

I got the same emails by them. they are claiming they have a studio in san diego the address is:

4036 Idaho St, San Diego, CA, 92104, USA
the way they added the USA through me off too. they used some words such as hydro which made my husband think twice.

these are the emails they are using...
exrental1@yahoo.com
maryinforental@gmail.com

Thanks for your email and it is my gladness to hear from you.I am John Coleman,the owner of the Apartment you are making inquiry on.Actually I resided in the apartment with my family,presently we moved away due to my transfer from my working place, my apartment is still available for rent for $680 per month including the utilities like hydro,washer and security,it is furnished.More so Now, I went for a Crusade in the West Africa and i will like you to get in touch with my wife in the states for more discussion as She is with the keys and the documents to the Apartment.Pls i want you to note that,i am a kind and honest man and also i spent a lot on my property that i want to give you for rent,so i will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and want you to treat it as your own,is that taken,I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i come for a check up.I do that once in a while.I want have trust in you as i always stand by my words.Where are you located? let us know how soon you are willing to move in.Email my wife Mary, on (maryinforental@gmail.com) and she will attend to you better.

ADDRESS TO THE APARTMENT : 4036 Idaho St, San Diego, CA, 92104, USA

Thanks for your interest.

john colemen

______________________________
Thanks for the email.My husband own the apartment, also want you to know that it was due to my husband's transfer that made us to leave the apartment and also want to give it out for rent and looking for a responsible person that can take good care of the apartment, we are not after the money for the rent but want it to be clean all the time ..So for now,I am in Fairview Oregon in the United States in our new home and also I am with the keys and documents of the apartment,we tried to look for an agent that we can give this documents before we left but could not see and we don't want the apartment to be used any how in our absence that is why we took the keys and documents along with us here and as you know that,my husband over in the West Africa for a mission of God,so i hope you will promise us to take very good care of the apartment.So get back to me on how you could take care of our apartment or perhaps experience you have in renting a home.Hope you are okay with the price per month with hydro,heat laundry facilities,air condition, internet connection and so on.View pictures in the attached files.I am looking forward to hearing from you ASAP so that i can forward you an application to fill out and discuss on how to get the apartment for rent.

Hope to read from you soon

mary colemen

___________________________
...CONTINUED

Anonymous said...

....
Good hearing from you that you are promising us that our apartment will be well taken care off , and I really appreciate your expression. So, like I told you there's none of my friends or relatives to show you the apartment .I want you to stick to your words. Is that okay with you? And the below is the final question that you must answer to qualify for the rent. Hope you had a nice working day, In fact I will like to meet you when coming to visit you soonest, You will not be able to see inside of the apartment. We do a long term and short term renting anytime you which to leave the place will be grateful and we are ready to rent as long as you want. Note that you will are not allowed to enter the apartment now until everything is being finalize as the keys/document is here with me in Oregon.We own the actual apartment.

********RENT APPLICATION FORM********

(Private & Confidential)

Also, Please let me get these answers.

1) Your Full Name
2) Present Full Address (where you reside now) & Phone Number to Reach You
3) Age
4) Are you married?
5) How many people will be living in the house?
6) Do you have a pet?
7) Do you have a car?
8) Occupation?
9) Citizen of which Country?
10) When are you ready to Move in ?
11) When are u planning to leave the apartment ?
12) How many months rent can you deposit upfront (plus security
deposit.

Looking forward to hear from you with all this details for approval so that I can have it in my file in case of issuing the receipt in your name and contacting you .Await your urgent reply so that we can discuss on how to get the documents and the keys to you, Please we are giving you all this transaction is based on Trust & Honesty and again I want you to stick to your words, We are putting everything into Gods hand, so please do not let us down in this property of ours and God bless you more as you do this.

N:B : We are doing this because of God as a good Christian, If you can pay two months, you will get one month free , I had an accident which affected my hearing and my legs , I am currently on a wheel chair right now, I do not use a phone that's why I am always online, if you are interested, you can fill out the rent application above and get back to me as soon as possible. You can also give my husband a call on +2347088797945.

Note:- we're only looking for someone who is ready to move in as soon as possible since our apartment is free right now and we will be giving out a month free .

Thanks so much and have a nice day.
Mary Coleman


***those are the emails they sent****
BECAREFULL!

Anonymous said...

"John and Mary" are now operating trying to flog cheap rentals in Australia on craigslist. This time their surname was Brunswick.

Exact quote:

Good hearing from you that you are promising us that our apartment will be well taken care off,and I really appreciate your expression.So,Like I told you there's none of my friends or relatives to show you the apartment.I want you to stick to your words.Is that okay with you?And the below is the final question that you must answer to qualify for the rent.

Hope you have a nice working day,infact I will like to meet you when coming to visit you soonest,You will not be able to see inside of the apartment..We do a long term and short term renting anytime you which to leave the place will be greatful and we are ready to rent a short or long-term.

Note that you will are not allowed to enter the apartment,because the keys/document is here with me in New London,United Kingdom.



*******RENT APPLICATION*******
(Private & Confidential)
Also,Pls let me get this answer.
1)Your Full Name
2)Present Full Address(where you reside now) & Phone Number to Reach You
3)Age
4)Are you married?
5)Sex?
6)How many people will be living in the house?
7)Do you have a pet?
8)Do you have a car?
9)What is your religion?
10)Occupation?
11) Citizen of which Country?
12) When are you ready to Move In ?
13) When are u planning to leave the apartment?
14) One month rent $560 and Bond deposit $500 ?


Looking forward to hear from you with all this details for approval so that i can have it in my file incase of issuing the receipt in your name and contacting you.Await your urgent reply so that we can discuss on how to get the documents and the keys to you,Please we are giving you all this transaction is based on Trust & Honesty and again I want you to stick to your words,We are putting everything into Gods hand,so please do not let us down in this property of ours and God bless you more as you do this.

N:B : We are doing doing this because of God as a good Christian, If you can pay two months, you will get one month free , I had an accident which affected my hearing and my legs , I am currently on a wheel chair right now, I do not use a phone that's why I am always online, you can reach my husband on +8613558335439.if you are interested, you can fill out the rent application below and get back to me as soon as possible.

As you can see, the methods haven't changed much. Bloody vermin.

Unknown said...

Wow I can't believe I almost fell for it. Now they're in Long Beach, CA 1557 Pacific Avenue thanks for the warning - I feel so foolish

Anonymous said...

This bastard is still at it. In Santa Cruz a craigslisting post for an apartment for rent. The ad was the same wording as referenced in another post on this blog. I contacted and he told me to contact his wife Mary Coleman at oldmary90@yahoo.com. And says they are in Fairview, Oregon. Thanks and watch out. 7-5-09

Anonymous said...

Email my friend rec'd July 15, 2009 from maryinforental@gmail.com about a San Diego rental:

"Thanks for your message. I'm Susanna Vicario,I'm John's wife.The apartment will be available for as long as you are willing to rent .My husband and I own the apartment, we both had an accident few months ago, I'm currently disabled and I'm currently on a wheel chair.I had to relocate back to our other house in Texas USA,that's why the apartment is vacant.Moreover,are you very clean,kind and easygoing?because my husband and I spent a lot on our property,so we want someone who can take care of the apartment.Kindly let me know as soon as possible because we need someone who is reliable to occupy it. • The apartment has the following features below:

• Central heating
• Large living room with wooden floor and dining room
table
• Fireplace
• bedroom with full size bed and TV
• Kitchen with dishwasher
• Bathroom with bath, new washer and dryer
• Separate toilet
• Private entrance and hall
• Desktop PC, Internet connection are included,
• Utilities included.

Pets acceptable (deposit required) . References needed if possible.So, Hope you are okay with the rent per month get back to me asap because we need a tenant urgently.If you are interested.I want you to remember that I'm in Texas USA and the keys and documents are here with me, so you will not be able to see inside the apartment, you can only view from the outside. I will send the keys and documents to you via UPS and you will receive it within 48hrs.I will send keys and documents to your present home address you will provide in the application form.Let me know if you are willing to proceed.View the pictures of the apartment in the attached file.Write back so I can send you the rent application.


Hope to read from you soon.
Susanna Vicario"

Price & look of the apartment was unbelievable. Definitely too good to be true!

Anonymous said...

Thank you for saving me for a huge mistake!!
They also go by the names of John and Mary Collins. They are offering an apartment in Washington DC 4th Street for $680 and the mails that I read on your page are the same that I have been receiving.
I am really relieved that there are pages like this, thank you thank you thank you!!!

Anonymous said...

Red Alert:

I just Googled them and found out that they have a new alias.

John Vicario: dxrental@yahoo.com
Mary ("Wife"): maryinforental@gmail.com

They must of posted 6 apartments in Beverly Hills, well below market value. That was my first red flag. Granted, I'm lucky...but...yeeeaahhh.

Anonymous said...

I cant say it enough just like these other patrons, thank you for the early warning about such scams. I have a new name for the list though, his name is John Vicario and his email is [exrental77@gmail.com] Its the same old story about being in africa but his wife Mary Vicario [maryinforental@gmail.com]is in Texas with the whole disabled story. I actually called the number in africa and talked to the guy. I wish I had the time to go over there and do some justice! But Thanks a million again, really!

Anonymous said...

They are now posing as John and Suzanne Vicario. After he replied with the standard West Africa line his supposed wife sent me this:

Thanks for your message. I'm Susanna Vicario,I'm John's wife.The apartment will be available for as long as you are willing to rent .My husband and I own the apartment, we both had an accident few months ago, I'm currently disabled and I'm currently on a wheel chair.I had to relocate back to our other house in Texas USA,that's why the apartment is vacant.Moreover,are you very clean,kind and easygoing?because my husband and I spent a lot on our property,so we want someone who can take care of the apartment.Kindly let me know as soon as possible because we need someone who is reliable to occupy it. • The apartment has the following features below:

• Central heating
• Large living room with wooden floor and dining room
table
• Fireplace
• bedroom with full size bed and TV
• Kitchen with dishwasher
• Bathroom with bath, new washer and dryer
• Separate toilet
• Private entrance and hall
• Desktop PC, Internet connection are included,
• Utilities included.

Pets acceptable (deposit required) . References needed if possible.So, Hope you are okay with the rent per month get back to me asap because we need a tenant urgently.If you are interested.I want you to remember that I'm in Texas USA and the keys and documents are here with me, so you will not be able to see inside the apartment, you can only view from the outside. I will send the keys and documents to you via UPS and you will receive it within 48hrs.I will send keys and documents to your present home address you will provide in the application form.Let me know if you are willing to proceed.View the pictures of the apartment in the attached file.Write back so I can send you the rent application.


Hope to read from you soon.
Susanna Vicario

Of course when it sounds too good to be true it usually is!

Anonymous said...

I too have come across them but under the names of:
John Vicario (dxaptrental101@gmail.com)
Susanna Vicario (maryinforental@gmail.com)

Anonymous said...

WOW thank you so much I knew it was too good to be true!! Here's eveything they said in the email:

1st email:Hello,
Thanks for your email .I am John Vicario,the owner of the Apartment you are in renting.Actually I resided in the apartment with my family for some months and we moved away due to my transfer from my working place, my apartment is still available for rent for $680 per month including the utilities like hydro,washer and security,it is furnished.Right now I'm in West Africa for a crusade and i would like you to get in touch with my wife in the United states for more discussion as she is with the keys and the documents to the apartment.Please I want you to note that,i am a kind and honest man and also I spent a lot on my property,so i will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and I want you to treat it as your own.I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that I will be glad to see it neat when I come for a check up,I do that once in a while.I want to have trust in you as I always stand by my words.Let us know how soon you are willing to move in.Email my wife Susanna, on (maryinforental@gmail.com) and she will attend to you better.

ADDRESS TO THE APARTMENT : 280 South Euclid Avenue Pasadena, CA 91101

Thanks for your interest.
John Vicario

2nd email:
Email "from the wife"

Thanks for your message. I'm Susanna Vicario,I'm John's wife.The apartment will be available for as long as you are willing to rent .My husband and I own the apartment, we both had an accident few months ago, I'm currently disabled and I'm currently on a wheel chair.I had to relocate back to our other house in Texas USA,that's why the apartment is vacant.Moreover,are you very clean,kind and easygoing?because my husband and I spent a lot on our property,so we want someone who can take care of the apartment.Kindly let me know as soon as possible because we need someone who is reliable to occupy it. • The apartment has the following features below:

• Central heating
• Large living room with wooden floor and dining room
table
• Fireplace
• bedroom with full size bed and TV
• Kitchen with dishwasher
• Bathroom with bath, new washer and dryer
• Separate toilet
• Private entrance and hall
• Desktop PC, Internet connection are included,
• Utilities included.

Pets acceptable (deposit required) . References needed if possible.So, Hope you are okay with the rent per month get back to me asap because we need a tenant urgently.If you are interested.I want you to remember that I'm in Texas USA and the keys and documents are here with me, so you will not be able to see inside the apartment, you can only view from the outside. I will send the keys and documents to you via UPS and you will receive it within 48hrs.I will send keys and documents to your present home address you will provide in the application form.Let me know if you are willing to proceed.View the pictures of the apartment in the attached file.Write back so I can send you the rent application.


Hope to read from you soon.
Susanna Vicario

(This email included amazing pictures of the apartment if I figure out a way to post'em I will)

Anonymous said...

2nd email:
Email "from the wife"

Thanks for your message. I'm Susanna Vicario,I'm John's wife.The apartment will be available for as long as you are willing to rent .My husband and I own the apartment, we both had an accident few months ago, I'm currently disabled and I'm currently on a wheel chair.I had to relocate back to our other house in Texas USA,that's why the apartment is vacant.Moreover,are you very clean,kind and easygoing?because my husband and I spent a lot on our property,so we want someone who can take care of the apartment.Kindly let me know as soon as possible because we need someone who is reliable to occupy it. • The apartment has the following features below:

• Central heating
• Large living room with wooden floor and dining room
table
• Fireplace
• bedroom with full size bed and TV
• Kitchen with dishwasher
• Bathroom with bath, new washer and dryer
• Separate toilet
• Private entrance and hall
• Desktop PC, Internet connection are included,
• Utilities included.

Pets acceptable (deposit required) . References needed if possible.So, Hope you are okay with the rent per month get back to me asap because we need a tenant urgently.If you are interested.I want you to remember that I'm in Texas USA and the keys and documents are here with me, so you will not be able to see inside the apartment, you can only view from the outside. I will send the keys and documents to you via UPS and you will receive it within 48hrs.I will send keys and documents to your present home address you will provide in the application form.Let me know if you are willing to proceed.View the pictures of the apartment in the attached file.Write back so I can send you the rent application.


Hope to read from you soon.
Susanna Vicario

(This email included amazing pictures of the apartment if I figure out a way to post'em I will)

3rd email:

Thanks for your response once again, I really appreciate your expression. We don't have any friend or relative to show you inside the apartment because I'm with the keys and documents.I want you to stick to your words. I want you to fill out the questions below, you must answer those questions to qualify for the rental of our apartment. In fact my husband would like to meet you when coming to visit you soonest. We would offer a long term and short term rental anytime you wish to leave the apartment will be grateful and we are ready to rent for as long as you want. Note that you will not be allowed to view inside the apartment until everything is being finalize as the keys/document are with me in Texas USA.You can only view the apartment from the outside.

Anonymous said...

The "RENTAL APPLICATION"


********RENT APPLICATION FORM********

(Private & Confidential)

Also, Please let me get these answers.

1) Your Full Name
2) Present Full Address (where you reside now) & Phone Number to Reach You
3) Age
4) Are you married?
5) How many people will be living in the house?
6) Do you have a pet?
7) Do you have a car?
8) Occupation?
9) Citizen of which Country?
10) When are you ready to Move in ?
11) When are u planning to leave the apartment ?
12) How many months rent can you deposit upfront (plus security
deposit.

Looking forward to read from you with all this details for approval so that we can have it in our file in case of issuing the receipt in your name and contacting you .Await your urgent reply so that we can discuss on how to get the documents and the keys to you, Please we're doing this transaction based on Trust & Honesty and again I want you to stick to your words,we're putting everything into Gods hand, so please do not let us down in this property of ours.

N:B : We're doing this because of God & as good Christians, If you can pay two months, you will get one month free.I had an accident which affected my hearing and my legs , I am currently on a wheel chair right now, I do not use a phone that's why I am always online, if you are interested, you can fill out the rent application above and get back to me as soon as possible. You can call my husband on +234-708-879-7945

Note:- We're looking for someone who is ready to move in as soon as possible since our apartment is free right now and we will be giving out a month free.God bless you as you do this.

Regards
Susanna Vicario

Anonymous said...

The emails continue...everythi9ng sounds amazing.

Thank you so much for your reply, I can see your willingness in this
apartment. I want you to know that we're satisfied with your profile
and also believe we can trust in you because we wouldn't like to
experience what we experienced from our last tenant again.We would
like to know the exact date you want to move into the apartment,we
want you to know that we can let you stay in the apartment till the
period of time you wish to.The rent fee is includes the apartment
utilities, so you can use the utilities anytime but make sure you take
proper care of our property.I will be receiving the payment via
Western union and get back to me with the full address on where to
send you the keys and documents.

Accommodation Features
..............................
.....................
Wood Floor :
Heater :
Central Heating :
Equipped Kitchen :
Tv: Cable/Satellite TV:
Video/Stereo:
Internet :
Air Conditioning:
• Full Kitchen
• Refrigerator:
• Garage/Car park
• pets allowed.

Kitchen Features
...................... ...........
Washing machine:
Juice Machine :
Iron :
Toaster:
Oven :
Dishwasher :
Coffee Maker :
Microwave :
Refrigerator:
Stove:

As soon as you pay the deposit payment of $1360 ( 1 month rent + security deposit ),the apartment keys/documents will be delivered to
you via UPS courier service on a next day delivery and it will be
delivered to the address you provided in your application form.Let me
read back from you as soon as possible so that I can arrange for the
delivery of the keys/Documents.

Once again we're giving you this apartment on trust and don't
disappoint us because I don't want our apartment to be destroyed
again, if you wish to move in with your own property,we still have one
extra room empty so you can easily put my our things you don't need in
there.

Anonymous said...

The pictures on craigslist was a mistake from John, he put the pictures of our apartment in Texas.The pictures I sent to you are the exact pictures of the apartment you will be renting from us.Please write back ASAP.

email continues...................

Below is the information you will need in sending the payment via western union:
Receivers Name :- John Vicario

Address :- 59 Adams street

City : Victoria Island

State :- Lagos

Country :- Nigeria

Zipcode :- 23401

Text Question :- To Who

Text Answer :- John

As soon as you send the payment from the Western Union, you would be
given some information. You would have to get back to me with
following information:

Sender's Name:
Sender's Address:
MTCN# 10 Digits number given to you by Western Union.
Amount sent :

As soon as we confirm the payment, I will make arrangements to send
you the keys and documents.

Regards

Susanna Vicario

Here are the contents that will be delivered to you via UPS courier service.

1) Entrance and the rooms Keys
2)Paper/Permanent apartment form(Containing your reference details)
3)The apartment documented file.
4)Payment Receipts.
5)Full address and description of the Apartment.

Get back to me via email if you need me to send you the information on
how to send the deposit payment via western union so I can proceed shipment on how to send you the keys and documents.
Hope to read from you soon.
Thanks and God bless you.
Susanna Vicario
7th email:
Let us know how much you can send today so we can hold down the apartment for you, and you send the balance on the 20th of september.
Thanks
So that concludes it. I feel so stupid for believing and responding. But at least I researched before sending any money. Hope this helps anyone else out there.

Anonymous said...

Thanks guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i just received 3 emails back from 3 "different people," saying the same old crap but in a different way! THE RENT IS USUALLY $680 FOR A 1 BEDROOM, he is either is Africa, or China, you must contact his wife because she is "With the Keys," and you must keep it tidy at all times. These are the names and emails, WATCH OUT!!!

BRADLEY HUNTER- EMAIL kudireoo@yahoo.com

JOHN VICARIO- EMAIL
bxrental77@gmail.com

THOMAS COKER- EMAIL
thcoke231@yahoo.com

It's so obvious its a scam. In the LA area, they are offering Beverly Hills, Pasadena, Sherman Oaks, and Long Beach!!! BE CAREFUL, NOT COOL!

Unknown said...

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/apa/1321932726.html

San Diego apartment in El Cajun.
Mary and John Vicario.
I've got the same e-mail as you :)

Anonymous said...

Looks like they have decided to hit the east coast. I was searching in VA and I emailed to show interest in the place and received an e-mail exactly like the ones I have read from "John Collins". After he wrote back and gave me his wife's e-mail I sent her one asking if I could see the place and she of course sent a similar e-mail to the ones that are already posted on here. Unbelievable!!!

Cinderella said...

they are still at it and I also got an email from Tim Walters, Bill Taylor, Nathan Long, Aric Cushing this is ridiculous what else can be done to stop this? All the emails were long and similar in style but I knew from the first one something was fishy thats how I found this site thank you for posting.

Anonymous said...

Hello everyone:

On 9/7/09, I saw an ad on Craigslist for a gorgeous looking condo in Pasadena, California, where I live owned by Susanna and John Vicario. She's in a wheelchair, and he's in Africa. Something told me this is too good to be true so did a Google search and came up with the same type of scenario's they have used on other people. Thanks to you for exposing scam artist such as these two people. I will report them to the police today. I'm so glad I didn't give any personal information aside from telling them I was looking for a place for my exhusband. Wow! What an eye opener. Thanks again.

Pasadena, California

Anonymous said...

wow. i feel sooo stupid. i fell for it and actually sent money yesterday. but thank god for the people at western union. 'susanna and john vicario' wanted me to send 1200, but i only sent 500 to be safe. and the people at western union stopped and did not approve of the transfer. and 'john' kept insisting that i go to another western union and send the rest of the 700. i said no. i was getting my 500 back. and i am on the phone right now with wu to get it.

'john' did call and text me literally every 20 minutes to make sure i go to another wu and send the money. and i asked 'susan' to send me something of proof that they owned the apartment and she asked what the address was that 'john' gave me. and to me that was the red flag. how would she not know? and she sent this cheesy ass document that i could've made myself. and this apt was in beverly hills which normally runs for 2800 a month yet they were renting it out for 700.

she did give me a tracking number for the ups package she was supposedly sending. but when i checked, the status was the same the whole day saying no ups carrier had touched or received the package.

i just now emailed them and text them. and 'susan' says all these websites on them are just to frame them because people are mad they could not see the apartment first. haha. really?

thank god for google. this website saved me my $1200!

Anonymous said...

They have new alias's, John and Mary Carlton. mcarltonrenting@gmail.com, an apt in Sherman Oaks, CA. They sent the same emails as in these eralier posts. Thanks for posting guys, I knew it was a scam, but started changing my mind after someone called me from the 2347088797945 number. :-O I was shocked! SO I did a google search and found this info.

Unknown said...

Wow, I feel gullible. I was corresponding with John and Mary Collins who are offering an apartment in Santa Monica for $650 (well below normal market value for a 1 bedroom with all utilities included). Same story as what was cut and pasted above. John is in Africa, Mary is in a wheelchair in Texas. The thing that tipped me off was their 'application form' is those 14 questions and is in no way official looking. Be careful, people.

Anonymous said...

I have been contacted regarding an apartment in Santa Monica- 1316 12th St Santa Monica, CA 90401. :(

viv said...

Hi,

I'm from the UK and I believe the people want to scum me are John and Mary Coleman but they used the name under Barbara and Ken Morrow. They advertise in GumTree.com looking for tenant to rent their apartment at 25 Craven hill Gardens Bayswater London for quite good price considering is in the Capital. I applied to the advertisement and within minutes I had a reply from the 'husband Ken' who is situated in West Africa on a Crusade, he wanted me to get in touch with his 'wife Barbara' in Texas USA to get more information. I therefore email the 'wife', again within minute she replied saying she and her husband had an accident and it has subjected her to wheelchair, oh another email she said she is deaf so she can't make phone calls and gave me her 'husband' number to call on +2347088797945 OR 0112347088797945, those are the number I google to found this website. I've read everyone comments and it is exactly what they have sent me. How do these people live? and how dumb are they. They even used god in their emails, blessing me all the way. I hope one day some one can catch them. Keep up naming and shaming these criminals.

viv

Anonymous said...

OMG, they almost got me, thank God I googled their names before sending them money.

They're doing it in Manhattan beach now for 800/mo

And they told me the exact same story. These guys (or guy) have to get caught!

Anonymous said...

they are still doing this as John and Mary Collins in Beverly Hills. Thought it was fishy, but thank goodness I found this site.

Anonymous said...

They're also now using the name "Janet Morriss" in the Burbank area. I checked it out, called the property manager, and was told to quit talking to them because it was a huge scam. I was asked the exact same questions and was told the apartment had the exact same ammenities. DON'T FALL FOR IT, IF IT SEEMS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT IS.

Anonymous said...

They're working Boston again...
---

We're the owner of the apartment you are making enquiry for, The apt will be available for over a year to two but the lease can be renewed monthly. We're currently in Texas that's why the apt is vacant for $800 per month, the refundable deposit is $500. We want somebody who can take care of the apartment as his/her own. Here is the address of the apt 1111 Beacon Street Brookline , MA

Features of the apt:

. Central heating
. Large living room and dining room table
. bedroom with full size bed
. Kitchen with dishwasher
. Bathroom with bath, new washer and dryer
. Air conditioning
. Utilities included such as Water/Sewer, heat, hydro, internet access et.c

Pets are allowed, If you're interested, the pictures and application form will be sent to you.

Hope to read from you soon,

Mark and Gloria

Linsley said...

Yes. I contacted them as I did to everyone else who post ads on craig but I thought this is too good to be true. So I decided to google them so I found I am not the only one talking about this two people. Is there anyway someone can stop them? just wondering.

MEL said...

Hello! Below is the actual words from the email I received from one JOHN COLEMAN.


Name:
John/Mary Coleman
Location:
Craigslisting, LONG BEACH,CA
Email received:
Approx.2:00am, Tuesday, 15 Dec. 2009

RE:$500 Spacious One Bedroom Apartment For Rent (Long Beach)

Hello,
Thanks for your email and it is my gladness to hear from you.I am John Coleman,the owner of the Apartment you are making inquiry on.Actually I resided in the apartment with my family,presently we moved away due to my transfer from my working place, my apartment is still available for rent for $500 per month including the utilities like hydro,washer and security,it is furnished.More so Now, I went for a Crusade in the West Africa and i will like you to get in touch with my wife in the states for more discussion as She is with the keys and the documents to the Apartment.Pls i want you to note that,i am a kind and honest man and also i spent a lot on my property that i want to give you for rent,so i will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this apartment and want you to treat it as your own,is that taken,I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i come for a check up.I do that once in a while.I want have trust in you as i always stand by my words.Where are you located? let us know how soon you are willing to move in.Email my wife Mary, on (marycoleman34@yahoo.com) and she will attend to you better.
ADDRESS TO THE APARTMENT : 1557 Pacific Ave Long Beach, CA 90813

Thanks for your interest.

John Coleman

Anonymous said...

omg! I just repled this Mary Collins then I relised something was wrong. Then I came here...same story...one is in Africa another is in London disabled in the wheelchair....now they target on Berkeley area...
Here is the email address:
mrycoinforentals@gmail.com
hnbixrentals8@gmail.com

Thanks for warning me!!

Anonymous said...

i just replied to a post with same exact emails... though the names were john and kelly saelak. same stories, etc, a copy/paste email it looks like. the email addresses were ksaelak@gmail.com and theticapartment@gmail.com. i thought it was too good to be true so i searched the address on county auditor and they do not own it. then the pics they sent me didnt match up the ones on craigslist... i reported them too!! post is http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv/roo/1562488155.html

Anonymous said...

The New John and Mary is Michael Dredge:
1st email -
Thanks for your interest in my apartment. I am a professional piano/music theory teacher, I'm easy going and friendly. I like Music and have deep interests in traveling. I respect every religion and love to hang around with people and i am definitely not a trouble maker and very helpful in nature. I am currently living in Philippines and I will be here for long that is why am renting out my apartment. The apartment is located at: 230 S Hamilton Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90211

The apartment is a furnished modern 2 bedroom and 2 bathroom apartment and is strategically located in a very cool and lovely environment with five (5) appliances including dishwasher with in-suite laundry and plenty of storage space and parking space, professional and mature neighbors ensure peaceful living arrangements. Freshly painted and immaculately clean.

The rent per month is $500 monthly including utilities and $500 for damage deposit. I will like you to drive by to the building at your convenience to view the exterior of the building for you to know where the apartment is located and get back to me so that I can forward you the full interior pictures to you to have an idea how beautiful and spacious the inside looks.Waiting to hear from you soon,

Regards
Michael

Final email:
Hi Michelle,


Thanks for taking your time to fill the application form. I have taken time to go over your application form and I am so impressed and can't stop having the feeling that my apartment will be well kept by you as promised. I really appreciate your willingness in renting my place and i promise you that you will never regret renting my apartment. I would like you to provide me with one or a couple of your picture so as for me to have an idea who my new tenant is and how you look like (no offense) .

I'm willing to keep this as a means of recognition pending the time we'll meet as this will even make it easier for me to quickly identify you by the time i come for a visit in the nearest future. Also in the attachment you'd find a recent picture of me. I wish you all the best and good fortunes as you move into my apartment

I will be shipping the apartment key's and documents to you via DHL EXPRESS to the address you filled in the application form and the shipment tracking number will be emailed to you so that you can track it to know the exact time the package will be delivered to you the next day.. Below are the document I will be shipping to you once i have received the payment from you.

Here are the contents of the document.
1)Entrance and The Rooms Keys
2)The Apartment Documentary File.
3)Payment Receipt.
4)A Copy Of The Lease Agreement Form

I have the keys and the documents ready for shipment. I will like you to go ahead and send the payment to the below information via Western Union .

Receiver's Name: Michael Dredge
Address: 596 P. Ocampo St. Malate, Manila , Philippines 1004

Kindly get back to me with the below information as soon as you send the money via Western Union.

Sender's Name:
Sender's Address:
MTCN # (10 Digit):
Amount Sent: $

Once I receive the payment confirmation from you, I will get the keys shipped to you through DHL courier service {Overnight Delivery} and the shipment tracking number will be emailed to you so that you can know the exact time the package will be delivered to you so that you can move in at your own convenient time.


Regards
Michael