Wire Fraud: The #1 Threat
Criminals hack email accounts, impersonate attorneys or title companies, and send fake wiring instructions to divert your closing funds. The median loss exceeds $70,000. Scammers now use AI-generated voices and deepfake technology.
Golden Rule: ALWAYS verify wiring instructions by calling a known, trusted phone number — never use numbers from an email. If funds are misdirected, contact your bank within 24–72 hours, file at IC3.gov, and call law enforcement immediately.
Deed Theft and Title Fraud
Scammers use publicly available property information to forge deeds and steal ownership. Check periodically with your county Register of Deeds for unauthorized filings — many NC counties offer free property alert monitoring.
Unsolicited "We Buy Houses" Offers
These often involve wholesaling — individuals negotiate far below market price, then sell the contract to investors. Never accept an offer without getting an independent market analysis from a licensed agent.
Red Flags to Watch For
Pressure to sign immediately. No or unusually low earnest money. Quick closing with low upfront payments. Buyer refuses to view the home. Vagueness about identity or financing. Price significantly above market value. Anyone who discourages involving family or an attorney.
Verify Your Agent
Use the NC Real Estate Commission's Licensee Search at ncrec.gov to verify any broker's license. Ask about years of experience, license number, senior specialization, and client references.
Title Insurance Matters
Owner's title insurance protects against ownership disputes, unpaid liens, and forged deeds. It's a one-time cost at closing that provides lifetime coverage. Note: "title lock" services are NOT title insurance — they only monitor filings and provide no legal defense.
Where to Report Scams
NC Attorney General: 1-877-566-7226. NC Real Estate Commission: ncrec.gov or 919-875-3700. FBI IC3: IC3.gov. National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-372-8311.
Working with someone you trust is the best protection. Kim works with vetted professionals she'd trust with her own family's transactions. Talk to Kim about your situation.