O
nslow County residents are being warned about a rising trend of real estate scams involving vacant lots. Over the past few months, authorities have received multiple reports of this scam across the state. The scheme typically begins with a person claiming to be the owner of a vacant lot contacting a local real estate broker via email or phone to sell the property.

    The scammer then sends documents to verify their ownership, which are often convincing enough for the broker to list the property. In some cases, the property sells before the actual owner discovers what's happening. The situation becomes complicated when the new deed is recorded at the Register of Deeds, and the real owner must take action to rectify the issue.

    Real estate brokers are advised to verify the identity of lot owners by obtaining identification and conducting live video communication. This can help prevent scams that often target undeveloped land, vacant or abandoned properties, or those held in trust following an owner's death.