Top Real Estate Scams of 2025 and How to Protect Yourself

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.


Common Real Estate Scams to Watch Out For

1. Wire Fraud

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.

2. Vacant Land Scams

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.

3. Fake Landlord Scams

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.

4. Property Record “Services”

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.

5. Phishing Emails Targeting Agents and Clients

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.


How to Protect Yourself

  1. Verify All Wire Instructions
    Always call your closing attorney directly using a trusted phone number to confirm wire details before sending money.
  2. Double-Check Property Ownership
    For vacant land transactions, request a title search or consult an attorney to verify the true owner of the property.
  3. Educate Your Clients
    Share best practices with buyers, sellers, and renters to help them recognize potential scams.
  4. Use Secure Email Practices
    Avoid using public Wi-Fi when accessing sensitive documents and implement strong passwords for all accounts.
  5. Stay Skeptical
    If something seems too good to be true—or if you’re being rushed into a decision—take a step back and consult a trusted professional.

Why This Matters

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.


Watch the Full Episode

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.

📺 Watch the full episode here. Don’t forget to subscribe for more real estate insights and legal tips!


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