Ever feel like your home is your safe haven? Well, it's time to double-check that security because scams targeting homeowners are skyrocketing. Scammers are getting more sophisticated, especially with the shift to digital processes in real estate. Let's break down these scams and arm you with the knowledge to protect your home and finances.
The Rise of Homeowner Scams
Imagine getting a call out of the blue about a lien on your house for an unpaid loan. Scary, right? That's exactly what happened to a woman in Minnesota. She was given a case number and a contact to get more details. Thankfully, her husband's insistence that he'd never taken out such a loan made her suspicious. She contacted her county recorder and found out there was no lien at all. It was a scam.
Who's at Risk?
If you own a home, you're a target. Scammers use various tactics to convince homeowners they owe money. They might say there's a lien on your property or claim you need to pay immediately to avoid foreclosure. Remember, legitimate lenders and government agencies will always have a paper trail for such claims.
Scammers also target homebuyers. A New Jersey couple was recently tricked into wiring $32,500 to criminals posing as their escrow company. The fake email addresses were almost identical to the real ones, making the scam very convincing.
How to Spot and Avoid Homeowner Scams
- Verify the Paper Trail: Always check with your county recorder for any claims against your property. Legitimate liens will be recorded and accessible.
- Triple-Check Email Addresses: Before sending any money, especially large sums, ensure the email addresses match your previous correspondence exactly.
- Be Wary of High-Pressure Tactics: Scammers often create a sense of urgency. Take your time to verify the information before making any decisions.
Protect Yourself with Alerts
Proactively protecting yourself is the best strategy. Some counties offer free alerts when a land document is recorded with your name. Here’s how you can set this up:
- Check for Partnerships: Visit websites that list counties offering free alert services.
- Search Your County's Services: Use search terms like “[your county name] + county recorder” or “[your county name] + county recorder of deeds” to find your official county site. Look for "property fraud alerts" on the site.
- Contact Your County Recorder: If you can’t find any online resources, call your county recorder directly.
Spread the Word
Don't let your friends and family fall victim to these scams. Share this post with anyone thinking about buying or selling a home to keep them safe.
Conclusion
Homeowner scams are evolving, but by staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from these threats. Remember, always verify before you trust, and spread the word to help others stay safe too.
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