Because it is relatively simple to disclose, my recommendation is to disclose in all channels at all times. It is common industry jargon to use "agent owned" or similar words to that effect in all channels (e.g., MLS, print, internet, signage, socials, forms, emails, texts, calls, conversations, flyers, tv, radio). South Carolina forms implement state… Continue Reading Always Everwhere Properly DIsclose Self Dealing
COA HOA POA complaints to the SC Department of Consumer Affairs, report states a 67% resolution rate. Top county, Horry. https://consumer.sc.gov/HOA-reports 2025 Executive Summary The Department received 617 HOA complaints during calendar year 2024. Of that amount, 183 complaints were excluded from the report: 125 did not meet the statutory requirements for inclusion, 53 were… Continue Reading COA HOA POA Complaint Procedure at SCDCA
In addition to fake sellers (Forwarn, tax records) and fake buyers with fake crypto investment opportunities for buyer agents, several states are reporting fake buyers will entice a buyer agent to Zoom conference about their buying needs. The fake buyer then sends a fake Zoom link that installs malware on the buyer agent's computer for… Continue Reading New Scam – Fake Buyers, Fake Zoom Link fm Fake Buyers Installs Malware
Deed fraud emerges as a significant risk for homeowners Deed theft, or title fraud, is a growing issue in the U.S., with the FBI reporting 9,359 complaints and $173.6 million in losses last year. Criminals forge documents to secure fraudulent mortgages or steal homes, often targeting seniors and vacant properties. Homeowners can protect themselves by… Continue Reading NAR: Deed Fraud is a Growing Risk
https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/law-and-ethics/scotus-again-refuses-to-hear-case-on-repealed-optional-no-commingling-rule Case closed: SCOTUS delivers NAR another win In a move that affirms NAR's long-standing position, the Supreme Court refused, again, to hear Real Estate Exchange Inc.'s case against the National Association of REALTORS® over a defunct, optional rule for MLSs. Full Story: NAR REALTOR® News Now (10/20) Posted by: Byron King on 12/16/25 (This… Continue Reading NAR: Another Legal Win
SCREC LLR Livestream December 10, 2025 https://www.youtube.com/live/riaiXjy_ZCY Posted by: Byron King on 12/10/25 (This information is only accurate as of 12/10/25. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 12/10/25 as laws and regulations may change over time. SCR 803-772-5206 or email info at screaltors.org or email byron at screaltors.org) This… Continue Reading SCREC LLR Livestream December 10, 2025
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LekPi5HYa8 Posted by: Byron King on 12/03/25 (This information is only accurate as of 12/03/25. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 12/03/25 as laws and regulations may change over time. SCR 803-772-5206 or email info at screaltors.org or email byron at screaltors.org) This information is not legal advice. This… Continue Reading Crime: Financial, Association, Embezzlement, Fraud, Checks and Balances, Red Flags
Wednesday Webinar The SC Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) offers free webinars every week! Topic: Identity Theft Awareness Month When: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 • 10:30-11:30 a.m. December is Identity Theft Awareness Month! We will cover the basics of what ID theft is, how it can happen and the free tools for… Continue Reading Identify Theft Awareness Month – Webinar 12/3/25 SCDCA
Brokers and Associations beef up referral fee disclosures after NAR BOD votes for but NAR Delegate Body votes against an Article 6 update to the Code of Ethics. https://www.inman.com/2025/11/26/after-failed-nar-vote-brokerages-beef-up-referral-disclosures/ This information is only accurate as of 12/1/25. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 12/1/25 as laws and regulations may… Continue Reading Referral Fee Disclosure News, Brokers and Associations Beefing Up Disclosures
Do any listing agents or listing brokerage require any upfront payments from sellers (e.g., rebated deposit, upfront listing fee of any amount) from unknown and distant sellers with or without any red flags for seller impersonation fraud? If so, has this risk management strategy helped? Other risk management ideas, using background checks such as SCR… Continue Reading Fake Seller, Seller Impersonation Fraud, Vacant Land Sale Scam