Author: Jennifer Adams

  • Rising Quitclaim Deed Fraud in Florida: FBI Warnings, Local Alert Systems, and What You Can Do

    quitclaim deed florida fraud and prevention

    Florida has seen a sharp rise in property fraud over the last several years, with a particular increase in quitclaim deed-related scams. In many cases, fraudsters forge quitclaim deeds, file them with unsuspecting county recorders, and effectively steal properties. According to recent warnings from the FBI and Florida Realtors, these crimes — often referred to as “home title theft” — have affected tens of thousands of property owners nationwide, with significant activity right here in Florida. Fortunately, counties across the state are taking action through public awareness campaigns and title alert systems to combat this threat.

    This article explores the growing crisis of quitclaim deed fraud in Florida, highlighting the FBI’s recent findings, specific county-level initiatives like those in Polk and St. Johns, and practical steps Floridians can take to protect their homes.

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  • Arizona Fights Back Against Rising Quitclaim Deed Fraud as Criminals Target Vulnerable Homeowners

    Quitclaim Deed Fraud in Arizona

    State Implements New Protections After 65 Cases Reported Since 2021

    PHOENIX — Arizona homeowners are facing an escalating threat from sophisticated criminals who exploit quitclaim deeds to steal properties, prompting state officials to implement new safeguards and educational requirements to combat what one attorney general called theft of “life savings.”

    Since January of 2021, the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has received 65 complaints from homeowners, claiming their home was no longer in their name after someone fraudulently forged their signature on a warranty deed and filed it with the county recorder. In many cases, the criminal quickly sold the home and took off with the money, according to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.

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  • Consumer Alert: New Hampshire Attorney General Warns of Quitclaim Deed Fraud and Scams

    Quitclaim Deed Fraud

    The New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office has issued a consumer alert warning residents about fraudulent schemes targeting property owners through deceptive quitclaim deed practices. This alert highlights the importance of understanding legitimate quitclaim deed uses versus fraudulent schemes designed to steal property or money from unsuspecting homeowners.

    As property transfer experts, we believe it’s crucial that property owners understand both the legitimate uses of quitclaim deeds and how to protect themselves from fraudulent schemes that exploit these legal documents.

    “We’ve seen a significant increase in consumers contacting us after being approached by scammers claiming to offer property transfer services,” said a spokesperson for Deeds.com, a leading provider of legal document services. “Legitimate quitclaim deed transfers involve careful preparation, proper legal review, and transparency about all terms and consequences. When someone pressures you to sign immediately or promises unrealistic benefits, those are major red flags that indicate potential fraud.”

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