Anyone can fall for a scam, even in real estate. Here’s what you need to know
But there are other real estate-related scams to avoid besides wire fraud. Once buyers move into their new home, be aware that scam artists may prey upon your new status. If you receive a suspicious call from someone, hang up. Never give out any of your personal information over the phone unless you have verified the caller. Remember, it’s easy to impersonate someone or a company on the telephone.
If you get a knock at the door unexpectedly, be suspicious. You may have people come to your door once you move in suggesting that they have been called to assist you with your move, or the installation of your phone, cable or internet service, gas or electric service. They may offer to perform services for you around your home. Or, replace the roof. If you have not requested these services, don’t let them in your home. Never give them any personal information about yourself.
Utility companies won’t ever randomly stop by. They will set up an appointment with you and then confirm a window of time when they plan to come to your home. While we’ve all had issues with the reliability and timing of some of these companies, they do show up in marked trucks, wear identifying gear and have identification tied to the utility provider. Don’t be afraid to ask to inspect their corporate identification. They should also already have a work order with your information so you shouldn’t be asked to verify any of your information. If they don’t have this work order, they likely may not be authorized to be out there doing the work.
As part of National Consumer Protection Week (March 3-9), various consumer agencies and organizations highlighted how to stay safe from scammers and imposters. In particular, know that government agencies will never call, email or text consumers. That includes the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
And, government agencies will never request payment of a fine or an amount owed by the delivery of a gift card or cash. Government agencies reach out to consumers through the United States Postal Service. If you get an email notification that purports to be from the IRS, it’s not real. No matter how real it looks.
This advice also applies to the payment of real estate taxes, any city fines or other amounts that you may owe your municipality for garbage collection, water bills or other municipal services. Any of these agencies will reach out through the post office, not email. You can always call and verify the information.
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(Ilyce Glink is the author of “100 Questions Every First-Time Home Buyer Should Ask” (4th Edition). She is also the CEO of Best Money Moves, a financial wellness technology company. Samuel J. Tamkin is a Chicago-based real estate attorney. Contact Ilyce and Sam through her website, ThinkGlink.com.)
©2024 Ilyce R. Glink and Samuel J. Tamkin. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
