QUOTE (Joe @ Oct 21 2007, 06:44 PM) I think it is fine. Look at all the obvious tricks that have been posted above. Make sure the story they are providing is straight and check references a little more thoroughly. Find out why they are moving and explore the reason to assure yourself it is legit.
Saying this however, all else being equal I would prefer the local by quite a bit.
Prior to hearing about all this, i ALMOST got sucked in !! I corresponded w/someone from "England" ... they sent a cheque, it looked like it was printed on paper !! Shortly after, they sent me a quick email to say "family member in hospital, could they get a refund" ... the flags went up, did a google search and viola !! SCAM written all over it !!
I always tell someone, 1st come 1st serve, once u are in town, feel free to ring me up...that usually puts a stop to it...you are, after all, investing your time to wait for them while local potential renters are missing out on your great property !!