Property scams are on the rise, risking your savings, peace of mind, and ownership of your home

Protecting yourself requires vigilance, knowledge, and proactive steps at every stage of the buying, selling, or renting process

A frequent scam centers on impostors pretending to be the rightful owner, fraudulently selling or refinancing property they have no legal claim to

To guard against this, always verify the identity of the seller or landlord by requesting official documentation such as a government issued photo ID and a copy of the property deed

Cross check this information with your local county recorder’s office, which maintains public records of property ownership

Fraudsters often fabricate paperwork to deceive buyers and sellers

Fraudsters may create fake closing documents, deeds, or بهترین وکیل ملکی کرج mortgage statements that appear legitimate

Carefully examine every page of paperwork before committing your signature, and don’t accept promises made only in conversation

When you notice red flags — unexpected transfer requests, urgency tactics, or unfamiliar bank details — take a step back and consult a qualified advisor

Use only escrow services that are licensed and well established, and never send funds directly to individuals without independent verification

Avoid any unsolicited real estate opportunities that sound suspiciously perfect

Any unsolicited offer promising extraordinary value without standard due diligence — like inspections or appraisals — is almost certainly fraudulent

Legitimate buyers and agents do not operate this way

Always work with licensed real estate professionals and verify their credentials through your state’s real estate licensing board

When buying a home, obtain a thorough title search and purchase title insurance

A title search reveals any liens, disputes, or claims on the property, while title insurance protects you from future claims that may arise from hidden issues in the property’s history

Most fraudulent schemes remain hidden until after ownership changes hands, which is why title protection is critical

Guard your private details with the same care as your financial assets

Avoid sharing sensitive details like your Social Security number, bank account information, or property deed number unless absolutely necessary and only with verified parties

Shred any documents containing personal data and monitor your credit reports regularly for unauthorized activity

Criminals exploit stolen data to apply for mortgages under your identity or falsify ownership transfers

If something seems wrong, notify police, the FTC, and your state’s top legal officer without delay

Acting quickly increases your odds of halting the scam and reclaiming your funds

Stay informed by joining no-cost workshops hosted by consumer advocacy groups or real estate boards

Keep up with emerging scams happening locally

Finally, trust your instincts

If something feels wrong, it probably is

Take the time to double check facts, consult experts, and avoid rushing into decisions

Real estate transactions are among the largest financial commitments most people make, and protecting yourself is not just smart — it’s necessary