Real Estate and Cyber Crime

Buying or selling a home is exciting, but it's also a time when scammers may try to take advantage of you. From fake rental listings to fraudulent wire instructions, real estate scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. The good news? A little caution can go a long way toward protecting your money and your property.

Here are a few things to watch for.

1. Watch Out for Wire Fraud

One of the biggest threats happens just before closing. You receive an email that looks like it's from your closing attorney or real estate agent, asking you to wire your down payment or closing costs to a new account.

Always verify wire instructions by calling your closing attorney at a trusted phone number before sending money. Never rely solely on emailed instructions, even if they look legitimate.

2. Don't Fall for Fake Rental Listings

Scammers sometimes copy photos and descriptions from real listings and advertise them as rentals. They may ask for a deposit before you've even seen the property.

Be cautious if the rent seems too good to be true, the person refuses to arrange a showing, or you're pressured to send money immediately.

3. Protect Your Property

Vacant land, inherited homes, and investment properties can be targets for deed fraud. Scammers may impersonate property owners and attempt to sell property without their knowledge.

Keep your mailing information current, pay attention to unexpected property notices, and ask your county Register of Deeds whether fraud alerts are available.

4. Verify Who You're Working With

Not everyone advertising real estate online is who they claim to be. Before sharing personal information or signing documents, verify the professional's identity and credentials. In North Carolina, you can check a real estate broker's license through the North Carolina Real Estate Commission.

Be especially wary of anyone promising guaranteed investment returns or pressuring you to make a quick decision.

5. When in Doubt, Slow Down

Scammers thrive on urgency. Whether you're buying a home, selling property, or looking for an investment, don't let pressure override common sense.

Never send money, share sensitive information, or accept last-minute payment changes without independently verifying the details. If you suspect fraud, contact your bank immediately if money is involved, notify the appropriate professionals, and report the incident to the proper authorities.

A Little Caution Can Save You a Lot of Trouble

Your home is one of your biggest investments, and protecting it takes more than finding the right price. It takes asking questions, verifying information, and working with people you trust.

As real estate professionals, we want our clients to feel confident and informed throughout the process. If something doesn't feel right, stop and check before moving forward. A few extra minutes of verification could save you thousands of dollars.

Have questions about buying or selling safely? Reach out to a trusted local real estate professional. We're here to help you navigate the process with confidence.

Being informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself, your money, and your home.