Even when dealing with small businesses here I run into that scammy feeling way more often than I used to.

Protip: If you're getting estimates from contractors and one says something along the lines "You can trust me, I'm a good christian", under no circumstances should you hire that person.

Nothing against Christians, but if someone feels the need to call it out in their business dealings, its probably a red flag.

Buying fruit from the stand by the highway? He'll probably overcharge you if you're not watching. Same for souvenirs from the shops at the little tourist attractions all over the place down there.

I went to visit them for a week, and mowed their lawn for them. My Grandma called they guy mowing her lawn to tell him they didn't need it this week, and he cussed her out, accused her of taking food from his kids' mouths, and so on.