In their latest podcast, “True Crimes,” Summer Goralik and Troy Palmquist examine decades-old fraud cases and explain why agents need to educate their clients about deed fraud and transaction safety in order to build strong, long-term relationships.
Imagine discovering that someone has used your identity to secure mortgages and purchase real estate in your name, without your knowledge or permission.
That’s what happened in this week’s case, when a broker allowed his brother, his sole agent, to operate with little or no supervision. When the broker fraudulently purchased and rented out properties, the broker also found himself in a bind.
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This is not an article about how to avoid committing fraud (I hope you understand this). This article explains how you can provide your clients with another service: real estate fraud prevention. The story of this podcast episode dates back to the late ’90s, but it resonates even more today.
Real estate fraud is evolving
Real estate fraud is on the rise, but a recent study found that more than half of U.S. states have no laws in place to combat it. Consumers who don’t follow real estate news may think that fraud only happens to “strangers” and know little or nothing about:
Deed fraud Title fraud Lien forgery HELOC fraud Wire fraud Identity theft related to mortgage applications
Meanwhile, advances in AI and the ability to conduct real estate transactions remotely have made it easier than ever to create realistic fake communications and legal documents.
Consumers generally do not know how exposed they are. People who don’t yet own a home may think they’re not at risk because they don’t own property. However, as is the case today, their identities and credit could be used illegally to obtain mortgages or purchase real estate.
Homeowners are even more at risk because many don’t monitor title movements on their properties, don’t understand what title insurance covers, and rarely think proactively about fraud protection, especially if they don’t plan to sell soon.
For agents: Opportunity to become a trusted resource
Safety-savvy real estate agents are in a unique position to educate consumers through security-focused conversations and content that creates trust. Topics can include:
Inform clients to freeze unused credit Explain how to set up fraud alerts Encourage title monitoring and review Explain the protection provided by title insurance Educate clients on wire fraud safety
Create and distribute content on these topics through:
Newsletter Topics Social Media Content Buyer Consultation Points Listing Presentation Points Educational Videos Post-Closing Follow-up Campaigns Annual Homeowner Check-in
How does this differentiate our services?
Consumers can gain essential information about the home buying and home selling process online, on social media, and through AI-based Q&A. Increasingly, they are looking for advisors rather than transaction intermediaries.
Educational content marketing builds credibility, and protection-focused guidance strengthens your fiduciary value. But safety-focused education does more than that. It adds emotional weight to the experience of working with you.
We feel that the theft of personal information or acts is a serious offense. It is horribly traumatic and its effects can last for a long time. Your clients will remember you if you make them feel protected and safe. Additionally, they will trust you to keep their friends and family safe and will be a cheerleader on your behalf and the services you provide.
10 topics focused on blog, video, and social media safety
1. Why every homeowner should freeze their credit
We provide consumers with practical information about how credit freezes work, why they are important, and how they can help prevent mortgage and identity fraud.
2. What is deed fraud and can it happen to you?
Learn more about how fake deed and title fraud works, the warning signs homeowners should look out for, and how scammers target vacant, rental, and elderly homeowners.
3. What does title insurance actually protect you from?
Most consumers have little understanding of title insurance at closing. This article explains what’s covered, what’s not, and why your policy choice matters.
4. 5 Real Estate Scams Homeowners Should Know about in 2026
Easy-to-share summaries covering wire fraud, contractor liens, fake sellers, rental fraud, and mortgage-related identity theft.
5. Simple Safety Inspections Every Homeowner Should Perform Once a Year
The homeowner’s “financial maintenance” checklist includes the following how-tos:
Review title records Freeze credit Update passwords Monitor property tax notices Check liens Check fraud alert system
6. Why you should never ignore letters regarding your credit or property
Using real-world examples, we explain how consumers often discover fraud by mistake through credit notices, tax bills, collection calls, rights notices, and more.
7. How criminals use stolen personal information to buy real estate
A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at mortgage fraud schemes and why identity theft is increasingly connected to real estate transactions.
8. Risks of owning vacant land or investment property
Learn how and why vacant land and out-of-state properties are especially vulnerable to title fraud and false sales schemes.
9. What to do immediately if you suspect real estate fraud
A step-by-step action plan to help consumers:
Freeze your credit Contact the title company Call the police Notify your lender Check county records Contact an attorney
10. Why Real Estate Agents Should Consult About Fraud Prevention
It positions you as an active advisor rather than just a salesperson, naturally explaining your fiduciary responsibilities and enhancing your own consumer advocacy role.
Today’s fraud cases are dramatic, but the lesson is simple. Agencies that educate their customers about risk, protection, and prevention are positioning themselves as valuable long-term advocates, not just salespeople.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This discussion is primarily based on applicable laws, regulations and regulatory guidelines in the State of California, including those enforced by the California Department of Real Estate. Interpretations of laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction, so readers should consult a qualified attorney or their broker regarding how these issues apply to their particular situation or other states.
Troy Palmquist is the founder and president of HomeCode Advisors. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
Summer Goralik is a real estate compliance consultant and former CA DRE investigator in Huntington Beach, California. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
