Real Estate Fraud Is Rising: Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Send That Wire
Let me start with this:
If you’re buying or selling a home and someone emails you wiring instructions… pause.
Real estate fraud is growing fast, and it’s not because people are careless. It’s because scammers have gotten smarter, and the home buying process has gone digital.
Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll ever make. There’s a lot happening at once: emails flying back and forth, documents to sign, deadlines to meet, money being transferred.
Scammers know this. And they’re counting on you being busy.
The good news? A few simple habits can protect you completely.
Let’s break this down in a clear, no-fluff way.
Why Real Estate Fraud Is Increasing
Today, almost everything in a real estate transaction happens online:
Email communication
Electronic signatures
Digital document sharing
Wire transfers
That convenience makes life easier, but it also gives criminals an entry point.
They don’t need to rob a bank.
They just need access to an email account.
Once they’re inside, they quietly watch conversations. They copy language. They wait until closing — when money is about to move, and then they send instructions that look completely real.
And that’s where people get hurt.
The Most Common Real Estate Scams (In Plain English)
1. Wire Fraud (The Big One)
This is the most common and the most dangerous.
You receive wiring instructions for your closing funds. The email looks legitimate. It might even appear to come from your agent or title company.
But the bank account number has been changed.
If you send the wire without verifying it, the money goes straight to the scammer. And once it’s gone, it can be incredibly difficult to recover.
Simple rule:
Never trust wiring instructions sent only by email. Always verify by phone using a number you already know.
2. Title Fraud
This one surprises people.
A scammer forges documents to make it look like they own your property. Then they try to sell it or take out a loan against it.
You may not find out until there’s already a problem.
Vacant homes, rentals, and properties owned free and clear are especially attractive to fraudsters.
3. Rental Scams
You see a beautiful rental online at a great price. You’re told there are “multiple applicants” and you need to send a deposit quickly to secure it.
You send the money.
The listing disappears.
If someone is pressuring you to move fast and avoid meeting in person, that’s a red flag.
4. Phishing Messages
You get an email or text that looks like it’s from your agent, lender, or title company asking for:
Bank details
Passwords
Social Security numbers
Legitimate professionals do not request sensitive information through unsecured email or text.
When in doubt? Pick up the phone and confirm.
How to Protect Yourself (It’s Simpler Than You Think)
You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert. You just need a process.
Always Verify Wiring Instructions
If you receive wire instructions:
Stop.
Call your title company or agent.
Use a trusted phone number (not the one in the email).
Confirm the account details verbally.
No professional should ever rush you or discourage verification.
Monitor Your Property Records
Check your ownership records occasionally through your county’s property appraiser or recorder’s office.
Many counties offer free property fraud alerts that notify you if documents are recorded under your name. If that service is available where you live, sign up. It’s free protection
Work With Professionals Who Take Security Seriously
Not all companies handle fraud prevention the same way.
At New Door Title, wire instructions are verified directly at the source, and secure systems are built into every transaction. Fraud prevention isn’t an afterthought, it’s part of the process from day one.
And that matters when large amounts of money are involved.
Final Thoughts
Real estate fraud is increasing. But becoming a victim is not inevitable.
Slow down when money is involved.
Verify before you wire.
Protect your personal information.
Choose professionals who prioritize security.
A five-minute phone call can protect hundreds of thousands of dollars. And when it comes to your home, that peace of mind is worth everything.
New Door Title
Your trusted real estate title partner