Can’t speak to this specific listing, but that is just kinda how things work in Rhode Island

Facebook does tend to have more scams, but asking to be texted is not necessarily a red flag.

1. The person might prefer to have all their messages in one place and not receive FB messages; it is an extra place to have to check.
2. Once you text them they have your real phone number; they are tired of wasting time getting those from people.
3. Facebook pre-fills a message to the poster with "Is this available?" and it's super annoying. People just hit "send" when they may not really be interested in order to be be able to revisit the listing later (because they haven't figured out you can save posts to revisit them later.)

if you're worried about revealing your personal number, get a google voice number, download the app and text through that.

Not always. Some just don't use email that much and prefer call/text, especially older landlords. With me, I did send a message through Facebook messenger, but once I figure it out that the landlord preferred using the phone's message app to text, that's become our primary method of communication. But of course, be weary of those who want to rush you into putting in a deposit because there are many people interested or want you to apply before seeing the apartment. Especially those that send you a link for you to fill out the information so they can check your credit score.

Considering the phone number is based in Maine, I'm leaning towards scam. I've had enough experience hunting for apartments with contact numbers not in the immediate area (RI, MA, CT) to know better. I've gotten ridiculous text responses to voice mails like "you can't see the apartment because the caretaker doesn't have keys" or "you need to leave a Paypal deposit before viewing".

How would you propose to get in touch with them of you dont call or text? (Smoke signals?)