We have seen a big uptick in people trying to sell someone else's vacant land, have any of you seen this where you are?

We have seen a big uptick in people trying to sell someone else's vacant land, have any of you
seen this where you are?

The Rise of Vacant Land Scams: What You Need to Know

In recent months, there has been a significant increase in fraudulent attempts to sell vacant land that doesn’t belong to the scammer. If you’re a property owner, investor, or real estate professional, this is a growing concern you need to be aware of. Scammers are getting more sophisticated, and vacant land—especially when owned by out-of-state individuals or held for long-term investment—has become an easy target.

How the Scam Works

The typical scam follows a pattern:

1. Identifying Vulnerable Properties – Scammers search public records to find vacant land parcels, particularly those with absentee owners who may not frequently check on their property.

2. Posing as the Owner – Using fake IDs, forged documents, or even online tools to mimic the owner's signature, they contact real estate agents or buyers directly.

3. Quick Sales and Cash Transactions – They often push for fast closings, usually in cash, to avoid lender verification processes that could uncover their fraud.

4. Intercepting Communications – In some cases, scammers compromise email accounts and pose as the legitimate owner to divert proceeds from the sale.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Seller Only Communicates via Email or Text – Fraudsters often refuse to meet in person or speak on the phone.

• Quick Sale at Below-Market Price – They want to move fast before being caught.

• Push for Remote Closing with Cash Buyer – Scammers avoid face-to-face interactions and prefer transactions that bypass mortgage lender scrutiny.

• Inconsistencies in Signatures or IDs – Look for discrepancies in the seller’s name, signature, or documentation.

• Out-of-State Seller with No Local Ties – If the seller is in another state and has little knowledge of the property, it’s a red flag.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Verify the Seller’s Identity – Request government-issued photo identification and compare it with property records.

2. Use Trusted Title Companies and Attorneys – A thorough title search and proper due diligence can prevent fraud.

3. Watch for Unusual Payment Requests – Scammers may ask for wire transfers to unverified accounts.

4. Contact the Owner Directly – If you suspect fraud, try reaching out to the owner using their official contact information in public records.

5. Report Suspicious Activity – Notify law enforcement, local real estate boards, and title companies if you encounter fraudulent attempts.

Final Thoughts

Vacant land scams are becoming increasingly common, but with awareness and vigilance, you can protect yourself and your clients. Whether you’re buying, selling, or representing landowners, taking extra precautions can prevent costly losses. If you’re in the market for land, work with experienced professionals who know how to spot and stop these scams before they happen.

Have you encountered a vacant land scam in your area? Share your experiences in the comments to help spread awareness!