SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY – There is a recent surge in land sale scams targeting real estate agents and property owners in the area. Fraudsters are impersonating landowners and attempting to sell properties they do not own, causing significant financial and emotional distress to victims.
How the Scam Works
Scammers typically target vacant land and use sophisticated methods to convince real estate agents and potential buyers that they are the legitimate owners. They may send out solicitations to multiple real estate agents, request all-cash sales, and push for quick closings. Once a sale is completed, the real property owner often discovers that their land has been fraudulently sold without their knowledge.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
To help detect fraudulent land owners, real estate professionals and property owners should be vigilant and look out for the following warning signs:
Unusually Low Prices: Scammers often list properties at prices significantly below market value to attract quick buyers.
1. Lack of Personal Interaction: Fraudsters typically avoid face-to-face meetings and prefer to communicate electronically.
2. Rushed Transactions: Scammers push for quick closings and all-cash transactions, often using remote notaries.
3. Inconsistent Information: Verify the seller’s knowledge about the property beyond what is available in public records.
4. Suspicious Documentation: Be cautious of forged documents, fake IDs, and notary stamps. Always request multiple forms of identification and proof of ownership.
5. Title Company Involvement: Ensure that the title company selects a vetted, independent, and approved remote online notary.
Protecting Your Property
Property owners in Sullivan County are encouraged to sign up for the Property Fraud Alert service offered by the Sullivan County Clerk’s Office. This free service monitors documents being recorded in the Clerk’s Office and alerts subscribers if any suspicious activity is detected.
For more information on how to sign up for Property Fraud Alert and other tips to secure your land, please visit the Sullivan County Clerk’s Office website https://sullivanny.us/Departments/Clerk/Fraud
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