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I has opened a new fraud avenue. Musicians, authors, and artists have sued AI firms that use their works to train models. In real estate, criminals harvest images and videos of agents to build deep‑fake models that mimic their appearance, voice, and mannerisms, then impersonate them. Sarah Frano, VP and real‑estate fraud expert at First American Title, says AI tools can instantly produce forged correspondence, deeds, mortgages, video, and voice that are indistinguishable from authentic documents or people. Because property transactions carry high value, they are prime targets.

    The Better Business Bureau’s Arkansas director, Cara Carlin, warns of AI‑generated listings, fabricated seller personas, and voice impersonations. Red flags include high‑pressure sales, rushed deals, and a reluctance to meet face‑to‑face.

    NY’s Department of State cautions buyers that AI can enhance property photos and videos, making homes look better than they are. The National Association of Realtors encourages AI use but enforces an ethics code that forbids exaggeration or concealment of material facts. Digital staging must be disclosed, and reputable agents provide both staged and unstaged images.

    Rental markets are also vulnerable. A National Multifamily Housing Council survey found 93.3 % of owners, developers, and managers experienced fraud in the past year. AI makes it easier to forge pay stubs, IDs, and employment verification.

    The most dangerous scenario is an AI‑generated impersonator posing as an agent, mortgage officer, buyer, or seller to steal large sums. Frano notes that properties that are not owner‑occupied—second homes, rentals, vacant lots—are frequent targets because owners are less likely to spot fraud. Owner‑occupied homes face a higher risk of fraudulent loans that strip equity.

    Closinglock’s May report, “Data, Dollars, and Deepfakes,” shows that 53 % of people share their voice online weekly. Three seconds of audio can yield an 85 % match; scammers prefer at least 30 seconds. As deep‑fake technology improves, detecting fraud becomes harder, making identity verification, trusted platforms, and fraud‑covered title insurance essential.

    NY’s Department of State advises buyers to scrutinize property photos for perfection and to avoid sending money or personal data until they have visited the property and met the agent in person. In an increasingly digital world, the rise of AI may ultimately reinforce the need for face‑to‑face interactions.