Are you being Scammed?

Written By: Miller and Associates Realty On: 1st September 2015 Under: Real Estate Tips, Tips

While most real estate agents are honest, there are always those few looking to work the system and take your money.  Here are a few tips for avoiding scammers.

Trust your gut: if it feels wrong, it probably is. Scammers will offer a great deal that is hard to resist, and push you into moving quickly on a property. A scammer will try to rush the deal in order to avoid you questioning specifics too closely.

Question everything: scammers will lie on the property disclosure statement and falsely represent the true condition of the home.  They will create a reason for the low price and quick sale, lulling the buyer into a false sense of security. Have the property inspected by a home inspector of your choosing. Do not accept an inspection report provided by the agent or the seller.

Understand the details: a real estate transaction is a complicated process.  Check out the agent with whom you are working with the BBB and local real estate association. Educate yourself on the steps and procedures, and have a trusted real estate agent guiding you through the process. You can confirm ownership of the property at the website of the Property Appraiser for the county in which the property is located.

The bottom line is this: if you’re uncomfortable with the situation, walk away. Take the time you need to investigate further, and don’t allow anyone to rush you. For most people, the purchase of a home is the largest purchase they will make in their lives. Don’t let a scammer take advantage of you.