I was looking for a house to rent so I went on craigslist and found this ad for a refurbished house but how can I tell if it is a scam or for real?

It would really depend on the details. If it says something about things you can't just look and see, like pipes or electrical stuff, you might need a professional if you suspected things weren't right. If it says new carpeting and cabinets and you go and look and it's all worn out, well, it's obviously not new.is that what you meant by scam?

Hello h:

Even if you find a house that isn't refurbished, you need to hire a home inspector. THAT is the guy you trust - not the seller.

excon

PS> I notice that you're a tenant, not a buyer... What do you care about it being refurbished or not?? If it's clean and has heat and water, do you really care whether that wall over there is new?

Since you are just planning to rent this home call the number and inspect the home.