10/05/2026
A hot topic I want to address is Deed Fraud and steps you can take to help protect yourself.
What is Deed Fraud? Deed Fraud occurs when individuals fraudulently record documents or steal a real estate property owner's identity to unlawfully transfer or encumber property without the owner's knowledge or consent.
How do I protect myself? There are two free ways to help protect yourself. First is to set up alerts at the County Recorder’s office to notify you if anything is recorded on your property. This is the link to the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office and they also have links to all the other counties in Arizona:
https://recorder.maricopa.gov/recording/title-alert.html
I am happy to say that after signing up for these alerts and recording something on a property of mine, I was alerted both via email and text message. The alert system worked!
The second is to sign yourself up for the newly created Early Real Estate Sales Alert System at:
https://earlyalert.azre.gov/
I have not had a sale on a property since its inception, so I can’t attest firsthand that it works. But considering it is free, it is certainly worth the time signing up for it like I did.
Don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns you might have. Please know I am not trying to instill fear but rather be helpful by bringing this to your attention and giving you resources to help protect yourself. Thank you!
