Ignite FB Tracking PixelCommon real estate fraud & scams to know - Nazar Bas

Common real estate fraud & scams to know

by Nazar Bas 12/28/2024

Real estate transactions involve large amounts of money changing hands, which makes real estate frauds and scams unfortunately common. Rental scams, mortgage fraud, deed fraud and flipping scams are all examples of real estate scams to be aware of.

Whether you're buying, selling or moving, here are some common real estate scams to know:

Real estate escrow wire fraud scams

One common real estate scam involves somebody posing as a fake title or escrow company. They give you instructions to wire transfer funds into your escrow account, using spoofing tactics to mimic phone numbers and other contact info.

Before you send money to a third party, contact your lender directly using the information on the documents they gave you. Verify their instructions for escrow funds to easily avoid having your money stolen by scammers.

Unsolicited buyers wanting off-market sales

Another major red flag to be aware of is unsolicited communication requesting information about your home or an all-cash offering. While cash buyers can be legitimate, some cash buyers can be sinister attempts to take advantage of a homeowner facing foreclosure.

Also called a foreclosure relief scam, this nefarious scheme offers a "too good to be true" cash buy-out option to get relief on past due mortgage payments. If you're unsure, it's much safer to contact your lender and inquire about any programs they might offer to help you.

Forged deeds

Suppose you put up your home on the market, find your buyer, close the sale and discover another person has made claims against your property through a silent claim or a forgery. Often, this scam involves people giving a notary a counterfeit deed of property that is then considered in a county court.

A fraudulent deed might contain more than one false details including names, often claiming to be the real owner's personal representative.

Working with a real estate agent can help you in any real estate transaction, and also gives you valuable access to an expert opinion. If you're ever uncertain about an offer or situation in real estate, getting info from your agent is a good place to start.

About the Author
Author

Nazar Bas

Welcome! I'm Nazar Bas, a passionate and skilled Sarasota Real Estate Agent. Specializing in the Sarasota real estate market, I am committed to helping you navigate the complexities of buying or selling properties in this beautiful area.

At the heart of my real estate service is the commitment to building lasting relationships. As a Sarasota property expert, I focus on understanding your unique needs, whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or looking to sell your property in Sarasota. My client-centered approach ensures personalized and dedicated service tailored to your real estate goals.

Navigating the Sarasota housing market requires local expertise and a deep understanding of the community. My experience and knowledge as a Sarasota Realtor position me to provide you with insights into the local real estate trends, property values, and neighborhood dynamics. Whether you're drawn to the luxurious Sarasota waterfront homes or the charming suburban neighborhoods, I have the expertise to guide you through a successful real estate transaction.

As your Sarasota Real Estate Agent, I offer comprehensive services, ensuring a smooth and efficient process. From detailed market analysis for sellers to personalized property searches for buyers, my approach is thorough and data-driven. Leveraging advanced real estate tools and marketing strategies, I ensure your property stands out in the Sarasota real estate market, or that you find the perfect home that meets your criteria.

Embarking on your Sarasota real estate journey? I'm here to guide you every step of the way. With a focus on transparency, integrity, and excellence, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional real estate services in Sarasota. 

Let's connect and make your real estate aspirations in Sarasota a reality.