How Sellers Can Protect Their Property From Fraud On Zillow
The rise of fraud on Zillow has created new challenges for property owners. Scammers are targeting homes, including vacant properties, and posting fake listings to deceive buyers. As a seller, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect your property and ensure your listing remains secure. Here are some safety tips from our experienced attorneys at Bosshard Parke.
What Are Fraudulent Zillow Listings?
Fraudulent listings often involve scammers using legitimate properties for fake ads, sometimes even posing as the owner. These scams can damage your reputation, disrupt legitimate sales, and cause confusion for potential buyers. In some cases, fraudsters have actually signed and recorded deeds without the true owner’s consent, creating title problems that property owner may need to retain legal counsel or title professional to fix.
Steps Sellers Can Take To Protect Their Property
1. Monitor Online Listings
Periodically check Zillow and other real estate platforms for any unauthorized listings of your property.
2. Report Fraudulent Listings Immediately
If you find a fraudulent listing, report it to Zillow using their fraud reporting tool.
3. Use Title Monitoring Services
Sign up for notifications from your county register of deeds to track any changes to your property title. This can help you detect unauthorized transactions. Learn more through the WRDA Notification Recording Service.
4. Keep Title Insurance Up to Date
Verify that your title insurance policy is active and insures you as the title owner. If your property is held in a trust, purchase an endorsement to cover it.
5. Regularly Check Vacant or Infrequent Properties
Scammers often target vacant homes or second properties. Visit these properties regularly or ask a trusted neighbor to monitor them.
6. Document the Listing Process
Work closely with your real estate agent to ensure that the listing process is secure. Verify that your agent’s listings are published only on trusted platforms. If you find a fraudulent listing, obtain all the information you can and file a police report.
7. Monitor Your Bills and Credit Reports
Monitor bills relating to the property and personal credit reports for any changes or inconsistencies. Or, if you stop receiving a bill you know you should receive, that may be an indication of an unauthorized change. Unauthorized activity on your credit report may be an indication of identity theft.
8. Educate Potential Buyers
Be proactive in warning buyers about the possibility of fraudulent listings and encourage them to verify the listing through your agent.
Why Sellers Need To Be Vigilant
Fraudulent Zillow listings don’t just affect buyers—they can disrupt legitimate sales and create headaches for property owners. By taking the right precautions, you can protect your property, maintain your reputation, and ensure a smooth transaction.
For legal assistance in navigating fraudulent listings or securing your property, the attorneys at Bosshard Parke in La Crosse and Sparta, Wisconsin are here to help.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, consult an attorney at Bosshard Parke.
