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Southampton Town Police put real estate agencies on notice that they’ve seen an increase in criminals posing as property owners who seek representation in negotiating the sale of lien-free, vacant land.
The scammers can successfully defraud a potential buyer by accepting funds that are transferred to an out-of-town account.
Police warned real estate agents to watch for the following warning signs from potential clients who claim to be out of state:
- Listing the property below market value
- Making a quick deal for cash
- Avoiding posting a “For Sale” sign
- Avoiding communicating in person or via video, preferring to text or email
- Using a remote notary and remote closing
Southampton Town Police offered several precautions real estate agencies can take to avoid falling victim to scammers, including:
- Ask for multiple forms of identification and proof of ownership
- Request to meet the seller face to face
- Ask them about surrounding areas to prove their familiarity
- Select your own notary at closing
Anyone who suspects they are involved in a property scam is asked to contact the Southampton Town Police Department at 631-728-3400 or via email.
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