How to Protect Yourself from Real Estate Fraud — Before It Happens
image by freepik Protect Yourself from Real Estate Fraud: What Everyone Should Know Real estate fraud can happen to anyone — homeowners, renters, investors, or even people just browsing listings online. Scammers are getting more creative every year, using fake listings , identity theft , and even fraudulent property transfers to steal money or ownership rights. The good news? A few simple precautions can help protect you, your identity, and your property. Here’s how to stay one step ahead: 1. Verify Who You’re Dealing With Before you share any personal information or money, confirm that the person or company you’re working with is legitimate. Look them up online, check reviews, and verify licenses. In Texas, you can confirm that a real estate agent, lender, or title company is licensed through the Texas Real Estate Commission . If someone pressures you to act quickly or discourages you from asking questions, that’s a red flag — slow down and verify. 2. Be Extremely Cauti...