Why Is Real Estate Fraud a Growing Concern for Buyers and Sellers?

Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial events in a person’s life. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime target for increasingly sophisticated fraud. From wire transfer scams to title theft, real estate transactions demand a heightened level of caution and awareness.

At Accurate Title, we believe education is your first and best defense. Our team safeguards closings across New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Southern Maine by implementing strong fraud prevention protocols—and by helping clients recognize risks before they escalate.

What Is Wire Fraud and How Can You Prevent It?

Wire fraud involves criminals impersonating title companies or agents to redirect closing funds to fraudulent accounts. This scam often begins with hacked emails and fake wire instructions.

Tips to Prevent Wire Transfer Fraud:

• Always verify wiring instructions by calling Accurate Title using a known, direct phone number—not information in an email.

• Be cautious of any last-minute changes to wiring details. Legitimate title companies do not switch accounts unexpectedly.

• Do not click links in unexpected emails, especially those referencing financial information.

• Act fast if you suspect an issue. Contact your bank and your title company immediately to stop potential transfers.

What Are Rental and Listing Scams?

Scammers frequently post fake listings—often duplicating real ones—and lure buyers or renters into sending deposits for homes that aren’t available or don’t exist.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Properties listed far below market value

• Requests for wire transfers before viewing the home

• Owners or agents who avoid face-to-face meetings

• Listings without local license verification or contact information

Working with a licensed agent and a reputable title company is the best way to verify ownership and protect your transaction.

How Does Deed Fraud or Title Theft Occur?

Deed fraud happens when someone forges ownership documents to transfer a property without the actual owner’s knowledge. These fake deeds can be used to sell the home or take out loans against it.

How to Safeguard Your Property:

• Regularly monitor your title with your county’s registry of deeds

• Use fraud alert services where available in NH, MA, and ME

• Work with a trusted title company like Accurate Title for thorough title searches

• Consider title insurance for additional protection against future claims

Are You at Risk for Phishing Scams?

Phishing scams involve fraudulent emails that appear to come from legitimate sources. In real estate, these emails may request personal information or payment instructions.

How to Spot and Prevent Phishing:

• Always check the sender’s full email address

• Look for small inconsistencies in company names or logos

• Avoid providing personal or financial information via email

• Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication on email accounts

• Call Accurate Title directly if anything feels suspicious

What About Foreclosure and Loan Modification Scams?

Fraudsters often target vulnerable homeowners with false promises to stop foreclosure or reduce mortgage payments—usually requiring upfront fees.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Never pay upfront for loan modification services

• Verify organizations with the CFPB or your state’s attorney general

• Contact your mortgage lender directly if you’re facing hardship

• Avoid unsolicited offers from non-verified sources

How Does Accurate Title Protect Clients from Fraud?

At Accurate Title, we follow American Land Title Association (ALTA) best practices to ensure safe and compliant closings. Our protocols include:

• Secure document management and encrypted communications

• Outgoing wire preparation with multi-step verification

• Remote online notarization for added convenience and fraud reduction

• Local staff available by phone to confirm all details personally

We work with trusted financial institutions across New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Southern Maine to create a secure transaction environment for buyers, sellers, agents, and attorneys.

Where Can I Learn More About Real Estate Fraud Prevention?

For additional guidance and tools, we recommend:

• FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
  

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
  

• FinCEN guidelines on suspicious activity reporting

• Exploring insurance options for wire fraud protection during high-value closings

Closing With Confidence Begins With Protection

At Accurate Title, we’re committed to protecting your home, your finances, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re purchasing, selling, or refinancing, our team stands ready with the security protocols and local expertise you can trust.

Visit https://www.accuratetitlenh.com for more information.