H
omeowners in the Capital Region are losing properties to deed‑theft schemes. Anthony Gucciardo, broker and owner of Gucciardo Real Estate Group, says the most common method involves “friendly” fraudsters. They target people behind on taxes, credit‑card liens, or judgments, offering to eliminate debt. Victims sign paperwork that actually transfers the deed to the fraudster. Gucciardo has begun holding seminars to educate residents on how to spot and avoid such scams. He also cautions against seal‑coating and contractor fraud, urging homeowners not to pay upfront. “A legitimate business should perform the work first and only be paid after you’re satisfied,” he explains. Reports of forged deeds and fraudulent transfers are rising. Last month, Joseph Goodnough was convicted in Schenectady for luring David White into signing over his Cobleskill home, then cutting off utilities and staging a fake emergency to force White out. Gucciardo advises homeowners to review all documents with an accountant or attorney before signing, as many papers appear official but are not. He plans to conduct three to four seminars annually.