The real estate market may offer incredible opportunities, but it also attracts its fair share of scammers. With fraud tactics evolving every year, staying informed is the best way to protect yourself and your clients.
In the latest episode of The Real Estate Show, attorney Tiffany Webber dives into the top real estate scams of 2025. From wire fraud to vacant land schemes, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you avoid falling victim to fraud. Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel here.
Wire fraud remains one of the most dangerous and costly scams in real estate. Scammers often impersonate closing attorneys or agents, sending fake wiring instructions to steal your funds. Always verify wire instructions directly with your attorney before transferring money.
Vacant land scams are on the rise, with fraudsters posing as property owners to sell land they don’t own. These scammers often target out-of-state or absentee owners. Always verify ownership through official records and require in-person or notarized communication with the seller.
Scammers often impersonate landlords, creating fake rental listings to collect deposits or rent payments. Prospective renters should verify ownership of the property and avoid paying money before seeing the home in person.
Some scams involve offering to provide property records or deeds for a fee—even though these documents are often available for free from your local Register of Deeds. If you receive mail or emails offering these “services,” double-check with your attorney or county office.
Real estate professionals and their clients are frequent targets of phishing attacks. These scams often involve fake emails designed to steal login credentials or financial information. Be cautious with links or attachments in emails and confirm the sender’s identity before responding.
Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, and their schemes can cost victims tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself, your clients, and your business from these costly mistakes.
Want to learn more about how to spot and avoid real estate scams in 2025? Tune in to the latest episode of The Real Estate Show for expert advice and real-world examples from Tiffany Webber.
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