A man with a thick middle eastern accent called me claiming to be "Christopher Matthew". He claims to have rental property in Nashville that he doesn't "want it to be empty" while he and his family are currently living in Georgia. However, he requests the deposit via western union transfer. He insist I send it to his lawyer by the name of "Antonia Barton" in Columbia, Tn. By the way, this complete conversation takes place through text messages from 323-320-8500. It's not until I pressure him that he calls me from the 706 number, now requesting that I send the $700 deposit to "Christopher Matthew" also at a Columbia location. I found his ad for property while looking to move and called another number with no answer. He returned my call via text from the 323 number, but I'm extremely skeptical.
If you are looking to move never use anyone but a local established real estate professional in a brick and mortar office in the area where the residence is located. Never rent sight-unseen, or send deposits off to unknown people. Yes, a RE professional will charge a fee, but their is far less chance of being scammed.