I hate to feel that I am untrustworthy, I guess that as an active real estate agent here in Manatee County,FL I have seen my fair share of scamers. This latest one took me a little off guard. Not like the typical scam from an African prince that is giving me a ton of money to cash some checks.
I was contacted by a individual that claimed to be Japanese, looking for a retirement home. He requested that I send him properties that he might be interested in. Innocent enough, so I asked for him to email his criteria.
He quickly responded with his very general criteria, and directed me to contact his attorney.
Within a few hours, I get an email stating that he wants to do an offer for one of my listings, for a reasonable offer. No questions about the home, he has never seen it either. Now I have a lot of info on this Lakewood Ranch home. On my website, www.manateemoves.com I have a virtual tour, HD video walk through video, and over 50 photos. I have sold homes "sight-unseen" before with less info.
I sent a copy of the emails to my broker and it seems that my buyer is also interested in many, many other homes throughout Florida.
BUMMER!
Keep an eye out for this one. His last email had a very "form feel" to it. For example they left in (IF ANY) after the MLS#. Obviously this was a form email that the writer was supposed to replace that portion.
This scam somehow works by them getting the bank account info for the escrow account, and them they can somehow get money out. A lot of energy to steal it from someone else.
Thought I'd share this in case anyone else runs into this type of scam.
From the email....
Hello Joseph,
Thanks for your assistance, I used your home search engine and I found a home that is of interest to me MLS # (if any): M5815919 13802 Nighthawk Terrace with list price of $375000.00 because I love the curb appeals of this property but am offering $360,000.00 for this property.
If accepted, kindly send me the contract for me to sign and return immediately this will be my retirement home and it will be cash buy
1. I will want to close on 18th of November, 2010.
2. First payment in US Funds $155,000.00
3. Second payment in US funds $120,000.00 will be applied towards the closing balance.
4. $85,000.00 will be disbursed according.....
5. I want to put contingency on inspection on the contract.
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