The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) has issued a warning to real estate agents about scams involving vacant land. The agency reports that individuals posing as property owners have contacted agents in attempts to sell land they do not own.
According to the DRE, these scams often involve imposters who use fake identification documents. The properties targeted are usually owned by people who are elderly, deceased, or live far from the property. The DRE emphasizes the need for due diligence before accepting listings and encourages agents to verify the identity of anyone claiming ownership.
The DRE recommends that real estate brokers establish written policies for handling listings where the licensee and seller have never met in person. Training on these policies is also advised for affiliated licensees.
“Alleged cases of this or any other type of real estate fraud should be reported to local law enforcement authorities, such as local police, sheriff, and/or District Attorney’s office. If there is a real estate licensee potentially involved in the fraudulent activity, you should,” the department stated.
The DRE regulates over 434,000 licensees and enforces laws related to real estate transactions in California. Its mission is “to safeguard and promote the public interests in real estate matters through licensure, regulation, education, and enforcement.” The agency identifies consumer protection as its highest priority.
