Temmy Adebayo Real Estate

10/25/2024

"Beware of Deed Fraud: Vital Steps for Homeowners, Buyers, and Agents to Stay Safe"

Happy Friday, Facebook Fam!

If you’re a potential homebuyer, a homeowner, or a real estate professional, this message is for you!
In the past six months, I’ve come across multiple stories of deed fraud and fake sellers. Today, I personally helped a homeowner uncover a fraudulent deed recorded on their property by an impersonating buyer.
Please stay vigilant and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your property. Here are a few essential tips:

Sellers:
• Regularly check your property records via your county's property office. County websites don’t always show everything, so calling directly is a good practice.
• Have a trusted professional on hand who can investigate any suspicious activity. They can help guide you on removing any fraudulent records.
• Notify your title insurance company immediately if you notice any unusual activity.
• If your home is fully paid off, be especially vigilant, as properties without mortgages may be easier targets for fraudsters.
Buyers:
• Always order a title search and purchase title insurance, even if you're paying cash for the property.
• Investors: exercise caution when purchasing from wholesalers. Perform your due diligence and don’t rely solely on their title information —sometimes, a quick online search can reveal red flags. If a deal sound too good to be truth, pay extra attention before giving your earnest money.
• If the seller insists on using their own closing attorney and you're uncomfortable, remember:
1. You’re not required to use the seller’s attorney.
2. If you choose to, consider spending an additional $200 or so to have a trusted attorney perform an independent title search.
• Work with trustworthy agents who will be proactive and available for guidance throughout the transaction and after closing.
Agents:
• Stay alert for your clients. Discuss fraud prevention measures with your broker and be aware of available resources for real-time monitoring.
• Be extra cautious if an offer on your client’s property comes through a trust or someone wanting to pay with a trust account.

I hope this post brings some awareness to this important issue. If you want to learn more about protecting your property, feel free to reach out to us.

Stay safe, everyone!

09/07/2024

Thinking about moving in 2025 and wondering what to expect?

The early 2025 housing market forecasts suggest mortgage rates will come down slightly. As that happens, more buyers will jump back into the market, so more homes will sell. And that’ll keep upward pressure on prices.

Want to talk to an expert about what that really means for you? Contact me.

https://www.mykcm.com/shareable-content/blog/2025-housing-market-forecasts-what-to-expect?fiab=a

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