Common ​​Types of Real Estate Frauds

By Daniel Stoner on June 17, 2024

At Stoner Law, we’ve seen firsthand the damaging effects of real estate fraud on individuals and businesses alike. The world of real estate can be complex, and unfortunately, it provides fertile ground for various types of fraud that can have serious financial and legal repercussions. In this blog post, we aim to arm you with knowledge about the common types of real estate fraud and share our expertise on how to protect yourself from falling victim to these schemes.

The Basics of Real Estate Fraud

Real estate fraud is a serious concern that can have far-reaching consequences for all parties involved in a property transaction. At Stoner Law, we’ve seen how these fraudulent activities can undermine the integrity of the real estate market and lead to significant financial losses for our clients. The essence of real estate fraud lies in deceit—whether it’s inflating property values, concealing defects, or using someone else’s identity to secure a mortgage.

Fraudsters often employ sophisticated tactics to manipulate the system, taking advantage of loopholes and the trust of unsuspecting individuals. They might forge documents to create the illusion of ownership, use straw buyers to mask their involvement or fabricate income to qualify for loans they otherwise couldn’t obtain. The impact of these actions can be devastating, leaving victims with damaged credit, substantial debt, or even the loss of their homes.

At Stoner Law, We’re Experts in Combatting Real Estate Fraud

At Stoner Law, we’ve encountered real estate fraud cases where sellers have hidden liens or encumbrances on a property, misleading buyers about the true value and legal standing of their investment. In other instances, unscrupulous agents or brokers have diverted or embezzled funds, leaving clients without their rightful property or investment returns.

The complexity of real estate transactions provides ample opportunities for real estate fraud to occur, from the initial listing of a property to the final closing. It’s a realm where due diligence is paramount, yet even the most cautious individuals can fall victim to fraudulent real estate transactions that are well-concealed and orchestrated.

As your trusted legal advisors in the realm of real estate, we at Stoner Law are committed to exposing real estate fraud and protecting our clients from the perils of real estate scams. We advocate for transparency and ethical conduct in all property dealings and work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served when fraud disrupts the lives and financial security of those we represent.

Identity Theft and Impersonation in Real Estate Transactions

One of the most alarming types of fraud we encounter is identity theft and impersonation. Fraudsters may steal the identity of a property owner to sell or mortgage a property without the owner’s consent. They may also impersonate buyers or sellers for escrow wire fraud or to obtain property illegally. This type of real estate fraud can have devastating consequences for the rightful property owners and other parties involved in the transaction.

Mortgage Fraud and Its Impact

Mortgage fraud is another prevalent type of real estate fraud, where false information is used to secure a loan. This could involve inflating income statements, falsifying down payments, or hiding liabilities. Mortgage fraud not only affects financial institutions but can also lead to higher mortgage payments for consumers and contribute to economic instability.

Deed Scams: How Fraudsters Manipulate Property Ownership

Deed scams involve the illegal transfer of property ownership. Scammers might forge signatures on deed documents or trick homeowners into signing over their property under false pretenses. Victims of deed scams can find themselves in legal battles to reclaim their property rights and may suffer significant financial loss.

Foreclosure Frauds: Avoid Falling Victim

Foreclosure frauds prey on homeowners facing financial difficulties. Scammers involved in this type of real estate fraud might offer to “save” the property from foreclosure in exchange for upfront fees, only to leave the homeowner in a worse financial position. They may also trick homeowners into signing over the deed to their home, falsely promising that they can remain in the property as renters.

Rental Fraud and the Importance of Due Diligence

Rent-to-own arrangements can be beneficial but also ripe for rental scams. In some scams, the seller may not actually own the property or may not have the legal right to enter into a rent-to-own agreement. In a rental fraud, prospective buyers might end up making payments without ever actually acquiring ownership rights, or they may discover legal encumbrances on the property.

Online Scams Targeting Real Estate Buyers and Sellers

The internet has made it easier for scammers to target real estate buyers and sellers. Fake listings, phishing emails, impersonating the landlord’s identity, and fraudulent websites can be used to collect personal information or more money from unsuspecting victims. Online scams can be sophisticated, often involving realistic-looking documents and correspondence that can fool even the most cautious individuals.

Tips for Protecting Yourself from Real Estate Frauds

To protect yourself from real estate fraud, it’s crucial to exercise due diligence in every transaction and to work with an experienced real estate attorney. Here are some tips from our team at Stoner Law:

• Verify identities: Always confirm the identity of the individuals you’re dealing with and ensure they have the legal authority to conduct the transaction. This includes landlords and the property management company. 
• Conduct thorough property research: Before purchasing or renting a property, research its history, including previous ownership and any outstanding liens or encumbrances. Work with an experienced real estate agent. 
• Consult with professionals: Work with reputable real estate agents and attorneys, and title companies. A professional can help you navigate the complexities of real estate transactions and identify a huge red flag.
• Be wary of unsolicited offers: If you receive an unsolicited offer to help with your mortgage or to purchase your property, be cautious. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to rush you into decisions.
• Secure personal information: Protect your personal and financial information. Be cautious about sharing sensitive details, especially online or with individuals you haven’t thoroughly vetted.
• Read and understand all documents: Never sign a document without reading and understanding its contents. If something is unclear, seek clarification from a trusted legal advisor.
• Report suspicious activity: If you suspect fraud, report it to the authorities immediately. Early intervention can help prevent further damage and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Work With Stoner Law  to Identify the Warning Signs of the Most Common Types of Real Estate Fraud 

At Stoner Law, we are committed to helping our clients navigate the real estate market safely and securely. If you have concerns about a real estate transaction or believe you may have been the victim of fraud, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert legal guidance and support. Remember, vigilance and knowledge are your best defenses against real estate fraud.