Recently a person pretending to be a rental applicant tried to run a scam on a property we manage. They hoped to scam the landlord and Nesbitt Realty. With increasing reports of real estate scams worldwide, here are some ways you too can avoid being caught up in fraud.
Make sure all parties are who they say they are. Have an out-of-state party provide a photocopy of their driver’s license or passport that has been notarized. If someone alleges to represent an embassy or a large corporation, afford them no less due diligence that you would any other renter or buyer.
Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Nesbitt Realty.
Verify signatures. Compare the signature on the real estate contract to other signatures on their driver’s license, passport, the original sales contract, etc.
Double-check the documentation. Make sure none of the documents have been altered. Inspect originals whenever possible. Get certified copies from a title company.
You select the professionals. Require the out-of-town party to use a real estate professional, attorney, or title company of your choosing.
Require a face-to-face meeting. The safest way to ensure that they are who they say they are is to require that they show up at closing.
Rely on the professionals. If it all possible, don't do it yourself. Let a brokerage like Nesbitt Realty handle all the details.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) states that there are a number of factors, especially financial ones, involved in the purchase and resale of a house. As a result, the public is advised to consult a real estate agent as their professionalism is a critical aspect which allows the decision-making process and the experience to be a smoother one.
The key ingredient in having a successfully positive experience in a real estate transaction is finding the right professional to assist you. While real estate agents may meet your needs, the services of a Realtor® will be even more applicable to you.
What’s the Difference Between a Real Estate Agent and a Realtor?
There are more than two million people who have earned real estate licenses. Only a small, but significant percentage of them are Realtors. Realtors, are members in good standing with the National Association of Realtors, their state association of Realtors, and a local real estate board. Realtors are held to high standards of ethical behavior, and it is mandatory that they undergo continuing education annually to remain accredited.
All agents of Nesbitt Realty are Realtors!We're here when you need us. Our real estate agents love to help clients achieve their real estate goals!
For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.
