***SCAM ALERT ***– Predatory
***SCAM ALERT ***– Predatory, possibly illegal leasing practices, and a wasted $65 application fee ***
I had a deeply disturbing experience with Property Management Redefined (PMR) that I believe tenants and renters need to be warned about.
I was sent a lease and told to pay $4,950 upfront via cashier’s check or money order only. I was explicitly told NOT to use USPS (which would trigger mail fraud protections) and was informed that no receipt would be given, and that PMR would not be responsible if the check was lost or stolen.
Worse, I was never allowed to speak with a licensed real estate agent, including John Sacks, the listed broker. Instead, I was contacted by a woman named Ameena Lafuente, who called me from the Philippines. She introduced herself as a “Leasing Consultant” with PMR and told me directly that $4,950 was due. Her LinkedIn profile confirms she is based overseas and not licensed in the U.S..
This company appears to be operating a leasing and rent collection system using offshore, unlicensed workers, which is likely illegal under Pennsylvania real estate law. They also told me to meet with a random person (not a licensed agent) to drop off the deposit in person.
There was no escrow protection, no lease validation, and no verification that this company has any legal right to manage the property.
I'd urge all renters and applicants to file formal complaints with the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission, the FTC, and submit evidence to the FBI’s IC3 unit for suspected fraud and unlicensed real estate activity.
*********Avoid this company at all costs. Do not send them money. If you've been contacted by PMR, I urge you to verify their license and report suspicious behavior immediately.*********