The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) has issued a warning to real estate agents about an increase in scams involving vacant land. According to the DRE, individuals are posing as property owners and contacting agents to sell land they do not actually own.
The department emphasized the importance of verifying property ownership before accepting listings. These scams often involve imposters using fake identification documents to claim ownership of vacant land, particularly targeting properties owned by elderly individuals, deceased persons, or those who live far away.
“Alleged cases of this or any other type of real estate fraud should be reported to local law enforcement authorities, such as local police, sheriff, and/or District Attorney’s office. If there is a real estate licensee potentially involved in the fraudulent activity, you should,” stated the DRE.
The DRE also recommends that brokers establish written policies for situations where agents and sellers have never met in person and provide training on these procedures.
The Department of Real Estate regulates approximately 434,000 licensees across California. Its mission is “to safeguard and promote the public interests in real estate matters through licensure, regulation, education, and enforcement.” The agency lists consumer protection as its highest priority.
For more information about the DRE’s role and resources for consumers and professionals, visit their official website.
