Several families contacted ABC Action News claiming they paid thousands of dollars in deposits and advanced rent for the same house in Holiday and are now left with no where to go.
"They told me I could move in the first week of April," said mother of three Amiee Kobielink.
After paying $900, Kobielink showed up to the house on Woodfield Ave. Thursday night, but soon discovered many others were told the same story and locked out.
"I just want a home for my babies," said Kobielink. "For me to save and get this place was a big step for me and I was so excited to get my kids out of a mobile home and into a nice home and it's not going to happen now."
Lita Musik tells ABC Action News, she received a phony lease and set of keys after paying $1,300.
"We have been homeless since April 8," said Musik. "All of our stuff has been in a U-Haul."
Families left waiting outside the house Thursday night said they responded to an ad on Craigslist. Many saw the place in person before paying cash upfront.
"I want my money back," said Farrah Hippe, a mother of two who said she handed over $3,200 in advanced rent. "I'm pissed, I'm heartbroken."
After several calls for help, two Pasco Co. deputies arrived and interviewed each disgruntled renter. The Pasco County Sheriff's Office is now investigating.
A responding deputy knocked on the front door several times, but no one inside answered.
