VACANT LAND SCAM TIPS
October 2023 | NAR Legal Affairs       

RED FLAGS
Exercise caution if a potential client asks you to sell a vacant parcel or unoccupied property with 
one or more of these red flags:
•  The potential client wants to list the property for significantly below market value.
•  The potential client has a strong preference or requirement for cash.
•  The potential client does not want a “For Sale” sign in the yard.
•  The potential client emphasizes an urgency to sell quickly.
•  The potential client never communicates in person or on video, preferring to text or email.
•  The potential claims to be out of the state or country.
•  The potential client will only use a remote notary and requests a remote closing.

RECOMMENDED PRACTICES
•  Exercise due diligence to verify the purported seller is the actual property owner, for example:
        o Ask for multiple forms of identification.
        o Request to meet the seller face-to-face.
        o Ask for proof of ownership of the property.
        o Ask the potential client about the area around the vacant property to see if they are familiar 
           with the area.
•  Conduct independent research to confirm the property owner, such as looking online for a recent photo
    or speaking to a neighbor.
•  Verify the seller’s email and phone number.
•  Make sure you or the title company select the remote notary at closing.
•  Ask the seller for a voided check and a disbursement authorization form; use a wire
   verification service to confirm the account information and ownership.
•  If you suspect that you are involved in a vacant lot scam:
        o Contact law enforcement and file a complaint at IC3.gov.
        o Remove the listing from the MLS and take down any advertisements quickly.