Tag: real estate crime
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Keeping Ahead of the Deed Snatchers, From Albany to Honolulu
Your deed is precious. Just ask anyone who may have lost theirs to criminals. We’ve recently seen multiple governments responding to deed crimes. Actions span the country, from Albany to Honolulu — and places in between. Here’s what’s new, and what might keep a frightening fate from befalling your deed.
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The Sting: Arizona Real Estate Agent Calls the Cops, Derails Deed Fraud
A fast-acting real estate pro helped nab the suspected perpetrator of a deed theft against a senior. John Rowan, a Scottsdale real estate agent and investor, got a call from a stranger whose friend reportedly inherited a home and wanted to sell it as-is. Rowan went to check out the Phoenix-area home. A landscaper present…
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Escrow Abuse? Massachusetts Real Estate Broker Charged With Embezzlement
A real estate broker in Massachusetts was just hauled into court on charges connected with the sudden closure of his company late last year. Stephen Webster left clients stranded, having allegedly diverted more than $11.6 million from escrow accounts. A large number of buyers and sellers lost their closing dates and their money. Some of…
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Say It Ain’t So: A Pennsylvania Notary, Stealing Deeds?
The point of having a deed notarized is to ensure its legitimacy. Or so most people would think. A notary public is appointed by the state to witness the signing of legally significant papers, including deeds used to transfer home properties. Honesty and integrity are key traits for anyone performing this role. But recently,…
