The Scam

We are seeing a scary scam in Central Oregon and if has not hit your area it could be any time.  People posing as asset managers claim they need to winterize a home that is vacant and listed as a short sale.  They call the seller or the listing agent and claim to be with an asset management company needing to winterize a vacant home. 

The Method

Upon calling these folks are very persistent and make it seem that they are looking out for the seller and the bank as well.  They explain that they know the home is vacant and that to save the seller the expense of loosing a home with weather related issues.  They claim that if the home is not winterized when the bank takes possession that the seller will be billed for the repairs.  They claim they have spoken to seller and that the seller understands the need.

The Result

Upon gaining access to the home these folks strip it.  They take everything they can – the light fixtures, appliances, heaters, hot water tanks and anything else they can get away with.  They have not only taken these items but sometimes done even more damage by removing plumbing fixtures without turning off the water.

What Can You Do?

As a listing agent of a short sale home you need to realize that you represent the seller – and that unless the seller has given you permission to let the folks in they have no authority.  A bank owned home will not allow early occupancy – this is no different than the bank trying to take early occupancy (if it were the bank).  Seller’s if you are called directly – get the name of the company and contact your lender – check it out.  Do not assume you are being told the truth. 

Central Oregon Short Sale Sellers if you have moved out of your home, you might want to protect the home from winter weather by having it winterized.  If you do not know how please call me I can connect you with someone that can do it for you.  If you have moved out you might want to make it obvious you have not abandoned your home.  Agents, protect your seller and make sure you are serving them properly – click here for my story of this Central Oregon short sale scam.