Admin

What Happens That's Not So Great After Settlement?

By
Real Estate Agent with Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate 535650
 
If you’ve recently bought a #home in #Maryland — or you’re about to — there’s something very important you need to know.
 
Right after settlement, your home purchase becomes public record.
Your name. Your address. The fact that you just bought a property.
And unfortunately, that means scammers know it too.
 
At closing, our title attorney, Erika Madden with Universal Title, always gives buyers this warning before they walk out the door.
 
Over the next few weeks, your mailbox will start filling up with letters that look extremely official.
You may see things like:
• “Final Notice” letters about your mortgage protection insurance
• Offers to get you a copy of your deed for $80 or $100
• Mail that looks like it’s from the county recorder’s office
• Letters saying you must purchase a home warranty immediately
• Notices that appear to come from your lender
 
Many of these letters are designed to look like government documents.
But here’s the truth:
Most of them are solicitations.
Some are overpriced services you don’t need.
And some are outright scams.
 
For example, a common one asks you to pay $80–$100 for a copy of your deed.
You already own the deed.
And if you want a copy, you can get one from the county for just a few dollars — sometimes even free online.
 
Another popular one is mortgage life insurance that makes it look like you’re required to sign up immediately.
You’re not.
If you ever want insurance, talk to a licensed insurance professional — not a random letter that shows up in your mailbox.
Here’s the simple rule Erica tells every buyer:
 
If it didn’t come from your lender, your title company, or your real estate agent — treat it with caution.
And if you’re ever unsure?
Call your agent.
Seriously. That’s what we’re here for.
Buying a home is exciting, and unfortunately there are companies out there hoping you’ll panic and send them money.
Don’t.
Just because it looks official doesn’t mean it is.
Stay informed, stay skeptical, and enjoy your new home. #Catonsville
 
MarylandRealEstate
CatonsvilleRealtor
EPIKHomeGroup
HomeBuyingTips
FirstTimeHomeBuyer
MarylandHomes
Posted by

 

Join me on FacebookGoogle+Let's get LinkedInCheck out my videosCheck what people are saying about me on Zillow

 

 

 

Comments(5)

Show All Comments Sort:
Dennis Neal
Exp Realty of Southern California, Inc. - Big Bear Lake, CA
Your Home Sold in 21 Days or We Sell It For Free

This is such an important warning, Ellie! I see the same thing happening here in Big Bear right after closing. Those "official" letters can be so intimidating for new homeowners. Providing that heads-up is a true value-add service that builds lasting trust. Great post!

Mar 06, 2026 11:09 AM
Don Baker
Lane Realty - Eatonton, GA
Lake Sinclair Specialist

We (agents in my office) and the closing attorney do the same.  It's a shame it happens.

Mar 06, 2026 11:09 AM
Hannah Williams
HomeStarr Realty - Philadelphia, PA
Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376

Ellie McIntire  Great information! I warn the buyers at the settlement table about these scams, as they are becoming more frequent these days 

Mar 06, 2026 12:01 PM
Lise Howe
Keller Williams Capital Properties - Washington, DC
Assoc. Broker in DC, MD, VA and attorney in DC

Ellie McIntire Great post. Educating buyers about what happens after settlement is just as important as guiding them through the purchase itself.

Mar 06, 2026 12:59 PM
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker

Good morning, Ellie... such a great "warning." I also alert my buyers to this and tell them if they have any questions about what they've received to call me first.

Mar 07, 2026 05:27 AM