Again, they are first time home buyers, not looking to scam anyone and will occupy the house eventually but I do know they have to sign something saying they will live in it for a year, which will more than likely not be the case.They want my advice and I came across this string hoping to get advice from others in the industry since I haven’t personally dealt with this before. 

Potentially this site itself is in on the scam, because the reporting function there doesn't work.   

Please note 90% of people who say they are private lenders are really scam artists - especially on Facebook.

It's all scams.

I had a feeling it was a scam to get the rent reduced for that month. 

Google some scam turnkey in chicago.

:-)best answerwhat a scam! 

I would say, be careful, and make sure it is legit before you provide any money...In today’s world, there are more and more scams when people ask for your money...

I don't believe they are scamming us, but yet we continue to have to dig into our own pockets to cover part of the mortgage.

SCAM SCAM SCAM   this is not private money private money are people you know.. not a company or someone off the internet..