• They claim to be moving from outside the area or even another country. They send a check or money order for rent, plus extra to cover shipping expenses for their belongings. They ask you to forward the excess to someone, but they could have easily done this themselves.
• They have unexpected expenses and ask you to cash a check or money order, then send some of the deposit back as a favor. But they never intend to move in. By the time you discover the scam they have already moved on to their next victim.
• Their check or money order for the vacation rental includes extra to rent a car. They ask you to send the extra to someone who will make the car rental arrangements.