How to Avoid Listing Scams- Agents and Brokers

Listing scams are prevalent in this area as well as the entire United States. Vacant land is specifically a target for scammers. Here are some tips to help you avoid listing scams:

• Utilize the FOREWARN app to help verify the identity of the caller. FOREWARN is available to Baldwin REALTORS^® Association members at no cost. Click here for instructions on how to download the app and get started.
• If the FOREWARN app is not helpful, have the caller send you a photo of themselves holding up their photo ID. Most scammers will not go to the trouble of creating a fake ID with their photo.

• If the person is contacting you through WhatsApp or an untraceable (FOREWARN) phone number, this should be a RED FLAG. WhatsApp is untraceable and is why most scammers utilize this method of contact. If the person is not local, require an online video call to try and verify the seller's identity.

• Beware of too-good-to be-true deals. Most scammers are looking for a "quick sale" and will often under price the listing. If something feels off, trust your instincts and investigate further.
  

What to do if you have been scammed:

• If you have discovered a scam and have already entered the listing in the Baldwin REALTORS Multiple Listing System, please contact us at 251-270-0328 or MLS@BaldwinRealtors.com. MLS Staff will DELETE the listing so there is no false history for the seller.

• If you have discovered you are communicating with a scammer and have contact information (of the scammer), you may contact Ashlyn Hayes, Baldwin County Sheriff Detective at 251-721-4044.

• BR does not keep a record or list of addresses of properties that have been scammed. A list would be impossible to keep updated and current and would potentially create a false sense of security.

If you have additional questions please reach out to the MLS Department at 251-270-0328.