Beware of the seller impersonation, vacant land sales scam because these crooks are adapting to at least one risk management strategy.
Reports of the crooks using fake US passport IDs have been received.
Reports of the crooks changing the tax bill address to defeat that risk management tip of overnighting a letter to that tax bill address once the listing is on.
Ask neighbors and any owners association for additional information on the true owners (e.g., address, phone, email, intentions).
Use FOREWARN, the member benefit where you can get additional contact information on the true owners.
The zipForms have a pay-for-identification service that can be used when you email the listing agreement to the sell that utilizes public databases (e.g., which of these schools did you attend…A, B, C, D, None of the Above).
ASAP in the deal, alert the closing attorney that you have never met the seller and there are land sale scams in the USA.
Warning, the crooks may start using recorded fake deeds too.
Be cautious and suspicious. Too good to be true is too good to be true. Quick sale for cash under market priced from a stranger seller email to you…be careful and diligent.
Ask how the seller found you.
Posted by: Byron King on 02/22/24 (This information is only accurate as of 02/22/24. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 02/22/24 as laws and regulations may change over time. SCR 803-772-5206 or email info at screaltors.org or email byron at screaltors.org)
This information is not legal advice. This information is intended only to provide general information and may not be relied upon as specific legal guidance. Legal counsel should always be consulted before acting in reliance on this information.