Imagine waking up to find that someone has stolen the deed to your home and is now trying to sell or foreclose on it—without your knowledge or consent. This nightmare scenario is known as deed fraud, and it’s happening more often than you might think.
Recently, even the Elvis Presley Estate almost lost Graceland due to a shocking deed fraud scam, where fraudsters allegedly forged documents to claim ownership and attempted to force a fraudulent foreclosure. While this high-profile case made headlines, everyday homeowners are also being targeted by criminals looking to steal properties through fraudulent deeds.
If someone files a fraudulent deed on your property, they could take out loans in your name, sell your home to an unsuspecting buyer, or even push your property into foreclosure. As a bankruptcy attorney who stops fraudulent foreclosures, I’ve seen how devastating deed fraud can be—and I know how to fight back. Most homeowners do not have the money that the Elvis Presley Estate had to wage a legal defense war against the fraud. So, bankruptcy may be the most powerful and inexpensive option to stop a fraudulent foreclosure. Yes, this can happen to you!
How Does Deed Fraud Happen?
Deed fraud typically involves criminals forging signatures and filing fraudulent documents with the county recorder’s office to make it appear as if they own your home. Once the fake deed is recorded, they may:
- Take out loans against your home, leaving you on the hook for debt you never agreed to.
- Sell your property to an unsuspecting buyer.
- Initiate a fraudulent foreclosure in an attempt to seize the property.
- Build on your vacant land because an unsuspecting buyer thought they were purchasing your land in a real sale.
Many homeowners don’t realize they are victims until it’s too late—often when they receive a foreclosure notice or discover a new “owner” has claimed their property.
Signs You or an Elderly Loved One May Be a Victim of Deed Fraud
If you own property, especially if it’s vacant, rental property, or if you are an elderly homeowner, you could be at risk for deed fraud. Here are some warning signs:
- You stop receiving property tax bills or utility bills for your home.
- You receive foreclosure notices or legal documents for a property you still own.
- There are new names on your property records that you don’t recognize.
- You receive mail for unknown individuals at your home.
- Your credit report shows loans or liens against your property that you never authorized.
How to Protect Yourself from Deed Fraud
Since deed fraud relies on fake documents being recorded with the county, homeowners must be proactive in monitoring their property records. Here’s how you can protect yourself:
- Regularly check your property records with your county recorder’s office to ensure no unauthorized changes have been made.
- Sign up for property fraud alerts if your county offers them—these services notify you of any recorded changes to your deed.
- Monitor your mail and bills for signs of suspicious activity.
- Consult an attorney immediately if you receive any foreclosure notices or legal documents related to your home that seem suspicious.
What to Do If You Are a Victim of Deed Fraud
If you discover that your home has been targeted by deed fraud, take immediate action to stop a fraudulent foreclosure or property transfer. A qualified attorney can help you:
- Challenge fraudulent deeds in court to restore your rightful ownership.
- File legal actions to stop a wrongful foreclosure before it’s too late.
- Work with law enforcement and title companies to resolve fraudulent claims on your property.
- Use bankruptcy protections to stop fraudulent or wrongful foreclosure proceedings.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
Deed fraud is a terrifying reality for many homeowners, but you don’t have to face it alone. If you suspect you or someone you know may be a victim of a fraudulent foreclosure due to deed fraud, call me today for a free consultation (844)894-4440. Together, we can fight back, protect your home, and put a stop to scammers trying to steal your property.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—take action today to safeguard your home and financial future.
Author: Jenny L. Doling, Esq., LLM Taxation
CA State Bar Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
NACBA – Vice President
San Diego Bankruptcy Forum – Immediate Past President
Serving Bankruptcy Clients throughout California and
Tax Clients Nationally