All SCR members have access to FOREWARN. Try to find contact information on the owners/sellers. FOREWARN has names, addresses, emails, and phone numbers. HOA has contact information on the owners/seller. Perhaps neighbors have contact information on the owners/sellers. Tax records have mail addresses and names. Quickly contact the owners/sellers via other various lanes of communication to help verify real sellers and help detect fake sellers.
All SCR members have access to zipForms. There is a paid zipForms feature that asks public database identity questions prior to allowing an e-sign. Which of these streets have you lived on? A. King Street. B. Oak St. C. Main St. D. None of the above.
Recently recorded deeds can be a red flag that the crooks may have e-recorded a fake deed.
Educate closing attorneys/paralegals on fake seller scams.
Idaho reports that in ski resort areas – crooks are targeting land owned by LLC or corporation or partnership to further create a smoke screen. Closing attorneys can investigate if the seller is real and if the seller has authority to bind the LLC/corp/partnership in contract and to convey.
Posted by: Byron King on 03/09/23 (This information is only accurate as of 03/09/23. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 03/09/23 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 information is intended only to provide general information and may not be relied upon as specific legal guidance. Legal counsel should always be consulted before acting in reliance on this information.