renting from co-op/condo owner

if it's a coop I doubt they could get away with it, as you've have to get the ok from the coop board and fill out all kinds of paperwork. Coops tend to be fairly strict with sublets and I doubt that if a current renter were to re-sublet to you they'd get away with it.

I think some condos would have the same rules.

Why in this case do you think it may be a scam? some funny business?

i read a news article about this a few months ago.

if you knew the owner's name u could do a property search and see if they own it.

You're very smart for thinking of that particularly with the ASAP aspect. Smart cookie. Good luck!

Though a little paranoid as doormen would probably be more loyal to the original owner then a renter... unless you are looking for nondoorman rentals.

If you do end up renting just tip the doorman $50 when you first move in and be nice/conversational.

Of course if he's a new doorman he might not know the owner particularly if it could be a 1 or 2 year rental. If you snooze, you lose.