Good point Candace. There are scammers and spammers everywhere, but they really seem to prey on people who are looking for something, want it badly, and are anxious for a sale. Heads up everyone! If I go to a new place alone, I go with my phone in my hand, and my finger near both the 911 Auto-dial, and I have a built-in Screamin' Alarm. My preference is to go with a friend, but that isn't always possible. Sometimes, my husband will insist he go alone, when it's in a "questionable" part of town. At 6'3", 250 solid pounds, and a very commanding presence, people just don't give him trouble.
But you're right. Starting with a polite e-mail response for more information is probably the first step in screening out scammers! Thanks for the great tip!