Real Estate Fraud
The District Attorney’s Office has a premier and specialized unit dedicated to the investigation and prosecution of real estate fraud. Staffed with highly skilled and experienced investigators and Deputy District Attorneys, our office investigates and prosecutes perpetrators in criminal court. Upon conviction, our office will seek restitution and potentially reverse any recordings that have clouded the title to the property.
Not all cases are criminal in nature. In some situations, your case may be a civil matter. By law, we are not permitted to assist in civil matters, but we may be able to refer you to other agencies.
What Is Real Estate Fraud?
Real estate fraud is any illegal activity affecting a property. It can include:
- Stealing your identity to purchase a house or apply for a home loan without your knowledge.
- Forging your signature on a deed or other document.
- Tricking you into paying money for services that do not help you or that you do not need.
Resources & FAQs
How Do I file a Complaint?
- Submit a Real Estate Fraud Complaint Form through this website
- Call for a Complaint form to be sent to you: (510) 383-8600
Simple Tips to Avoid Real Estate Fraud
- Avoid doing business with people who are reluctant to meet with you face-to-face.
- Be wary of business transactions that are presented with a sense of urgency.
- Never pay money up front in a real estate transaction, including loan matters.
- Use an independently verified escrow and title company to handle your real estate transaction.
- Watch for WIRE FRAUD scams. Always confirm instructions with your escrow officer verbally and preferably in person before wiring money.
- The County alerts owners of any recording activity on their Alameda County property. Report any suspicious activity using the phone number provided in the notice.
- Check the names of individuals and companies on the Internet to see if they have complaints.
- Do not give out your Social Security number or personal information until you verify who you are doing business with.
- Avoid paying cash for your real estate transactions. Cash cannot be traced.
- Thoroughly read all documents before signing; never sign under pressure
- Review all Trusts, Powers of Attorney, or third-party documents for legitimacy.
- Verify your notary’s registration and bond with the State of California.
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Willingness to sell below market is a frequent indicator of fraud.
- Land scams are on the rise. Be on high alert for suspicious land deals and opportunities.
- Seek professional legal, accounting, and real estate assistance to ensure your rights and assets are
protected.
Your Rights as a Homeowner
- California law gives you certain rights. Be sure to follow these simple laws that protect you from fraud.
- You are never required to pay money for a loan modification up front. Be suspicious of anyone who asks you to pay money before they perform all of their services for you.
- Read all documents before you sign them. Be suspicious of anyone who tells you to “just sign” the documents without reading them.
- Ask for and keep safe a copy of everything you sign.
Additional Resources
These other agencies may be helpful to you:
California Department of Real Estate
(877) 373-4542
www.dre.ca.gov
California Department of Business Oversight
(866) 275-2677
www.dbo.ca.gov
Contact Information
Real Estate Fraud Unit
7677 Oakport Street, Suite 650
Oakland, CA 94621
Email: DARealEstateFraud@acgov.org