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Detect real estate fraud and scammers

Real estate scams are always lurking in our marketplace. Here are a few pointers to protect yourself from real estate fraud.

Always ask questions. When callers offer you real estate services, immediately ask for their California real estate license number, local references and real estate experience…or ask them to stop calling.
Only talk to California Department of Real Estate (DRE) licensees. Real estate brokers and agents must include their license numbers in all advertisements and solicitations. You have online access to their status and any disciplinary history at: https://www2.dre.ca.gov/publicasp/pplinfo.asp
Never pay in cash or wire money to anyone. Cash and wired funds are used by scammers since the money is rarely recovered. Always pay by check to a licensed broker or institution.
Do not sign a document you do not fully understand. Read all documents thoroughly. When you don’t understand something, ask a long-time friend or licensed professional for help.
Beware of advertising. Anyone can promote themselves using ads which are never reviewed for truthfulness or scams.
Do not sign papers to transfer your home to a third party without assistance from a licensed individual. Scammers claiming to repair your credit or avoid creditors typically ask you to transfer title to your property to them, an immediate red flag to stop talking to them.
Do your research. Search online and find out as much as possible about the person or entity talking to you. Look for reviews warning the public of a scam.
Refuse to be rushed. Slow everything down when you feel pressured to “act now.” Take your own sweet time and push back against any attempt by others to set deadlines.
Stay skeptical. When a deal or a service sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Keep your money and title safe by not jumping on a deal that sounds too easy and perfect.