🏠 Florida Property Fraud: How to Protect Your Home and Title Today

Florida’s thriving real estate market is a magnet not only for homebuyers but also for scammers. One alarming trend gaining momentum is property fraud—a serious threat where criminals illegally transfer ownership of a home without the owner's knowledge. This type of fraud can result in devastating financial and legal consequences for homeowners, many of whom don't even realize their title has been stolen until it's too late.

In this post, we’ll break down exactly what property fraud is, how to prevent it, and what immediate steps you can take today to safeguard your home.

🚨 What is Property Fraud?

Property fraud—also known as deed fraud or title theft—occurs when someone uses forged documents to fraudulently transfer ownership of a home into their name or the name of an accomplice. Once the fraudulent deed is recorded, the scammer may attempt to sell the property, rent it out, or even take out a loan against it, all without the actual homeowner's knowledge.

Florida is especially vulnerable to this type of fraud due to the high number of vacation homes, rental properties, and elderly or absentee owners.

🛡️ 5 Steps to Prevent Property Fraud in Florida

1. Sign Up for Property Fraud Alerts

Many Florida counties offer a free property fraud alert system that notifies you when a document is recorded using your name or property information. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to monitor unauthorized activity. Be sure to register in your specific county to stay protected.

Here's how to sign up:

Miami-Dade

Broward 

Palm Beach

Orange

Hillsborough

2. Check Your Property Records Regularly

Make it a habit to check your property records every few months through your local Clerk of Court or Property Appraiser’s website. You’ll be able to verify that no changes have been made to your title or ownership without your permission.

3. Keep Your Mailing Address Up to Date

If you've moved or your contact information has changed, be sure to update your address with the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector. Missing important notices or tax bills could be a red flag that something is wrong.

4. Consider Enhanced Title Insurance

While standard title insurance protects you against past issues at the time of purchase, enhanced policies may offer additional protection against fraud and post-policy forgery. It’s worth the investment for added peace of mind.

5. Safeguard Your Personal Information

Identity theft often leads to property fraud. Be cautious about where and how you share sensitive documents, especially when buying or refinancing a home.

⚖️ What to Do If You're a Victim of Property Fraud

If you suspect or discover that your property title has been tampered with, take these steps immediately:

• Contact local law enforcement to file a report.
• Hire a real estate attorney to guide you through legal recovery.
• File a quiet title lawsuit to officially restore your ownership.
• Notify your county Clerk of Court and Property Appraiser to flag your property for potential fraud.

Time is critical in these situations, so don’t delay.

🔐 Protect Your Most Valuable Asset

Your home is likely your biggest investment—and protecting it from fraud should be a top priority. With a few proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to deed theft. Staying informed, monitoring your property records, and using available fraud alert systems are all smart ways to safeguard your title and your future.

Need Help?

At EZ Funding Group, Inc., we’re more than mortgage experts—we’re your trusted partner in all things real estate. If you have questions about title protection, property ownership, or want to ensure you're covered, contact us today. Your peace of mind is just one call away.