Buying a home is a huge milestone\u2014but it can also make you a target. Scammers often go after new homeowners because your information becomes more visible through public records, and you\u2019re likely juggling unfamiliar processes. Knowing what to watch for can save you money, stress, and a lot of headaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are five common scams\u2014and how to avoid them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Wire Fraud During Closing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This is one of the most dangerous and costly scams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Scammers pose as your lender, title company, or real estate agent and send fake wiring instructions\u2014often via email. If you send your down payment to the wrong account, it can be nearly impossible to recover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. Fake Utility or Service Providers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Shortly after moving in, you may get calls or visits from people claiming to represent utility companies or home service providers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They might demand immediate payment or try to sign you up for unnecessary contracts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 3. Home Warranty Scams<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll likely receive official-looking letters urging you to \u201crenew\u201d or \u201cactivate\u201d a home warranty\u2014often designed to look urgent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some are legitimate, but many are misleading or outright scams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 4. Property Deed or Title Scams<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Some companies offer to send you a copy of your property deed\u2014for a fee. In reality, this document is typically available for a small cost (or free) through your local government office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n More serious versions involve attempts to fraudulently transfer ownership of your property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 5. Contractor and Repair Scams<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n New homeowners often need repairs or upgrades\u2014and scammers know it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They may offer low-cost services, request large upfront payments, or disappear after starting the job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Most people you\u2019ll work with as a homeowner are legitimate\u2014but it only takes one bad actor to cause serious problems. Staying cautious, verifying information, and trusting your instincts can go a long way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When something feels rushed, unclear, or too good to be true, it\u2019s worth slowing down and double-checking. A little skepticism can be one of your best tools as a new homeowner.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Buying a home is a huge milestone\u2014but it can also make you a target. Scammers often go after new homeowners because your information becomes more visible through public records, and you\u2019re likely juggling unfamiliar processes. Knowing what to watch for can save you money, stress, and a lot of headaches. Here are five common scams\u2014and … Continue reading 5 Scams Every New Homeowner Should Know About<\/span> \n
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