It has come to our attention that a scam is making the rounds in our service area, AGAIN. 

On multiple occasions, that we know of, a fake seller has contacted our REALTORS® to list a vacant land property that they do not own. The true owners are unaware that their properties are being listed in the MLS. The fake seller continues to impersonate the true owner all the way to closing. They furnish a fake ID to the title company then try to collect funds. All information on the ID is correct but the photo is changed.

Suggestions:

To protect yourself and your buyers, be vigilant in verifying the identity of your true seller. Verify your true seller with public records and make contact with them. Mail the listing agreement to your seller at their personal residential address. 

Double check phone numbers for people listing properties with the Forewarn app. Forewarn is a free member benefit for CPAR Members. www.cpar.us/forewarn

Report any transfer of funds to your financial institution and file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.