As the popularity of mountain real estate continues to grow, especially in areas like Western NC, homeowners and investors must be aware of a rising threat: real estate title fraud. This sophisticated scam involves criminals forging documents to fraudulently transfer ownership of a property, often without the homeowner even knowing.
Whether you're buying a vacation cabin near the Blue Ridge Parkway or investing in prime Western NC real estate, your property could be at risk. Criminals target second homes, vacation properties, and even vacant land—making mountain properties especially vulnerable.
To learn how this crime works and what you can do to protect yourself, check out Planet Money’s fascinating podcast episode, "Title Pirate Insurance". The episode dives deep into how fraudsters exploit weaknesses in the property recording system and shares real-life stories of homeowners caught off guard.
How Haywood County Is Taking Action
If you own property in Haywood County—a hotspot for Western NC real estate—you’re in luck. The county offers a free Recording Alert Service that helps protect your title. When any document is recorded in your name, you’ll receive an immediate notification, giving you a crucial early warning if something suspicious is happening. This is one of the most effective tools for safeguarding your mountain real estate investment.
Sign up for the alert service here:
👉 Haywood County Fraud Alert Service
Additional Steps to Protect Your Property
To further secure your investment in Western NC real estate, consider these smart steps:
Purchase Title Insurance: This protects against losses from fraudulent or disputed ownership claims.
Monitor Your Property Records: Regularly check with your county's Register of Deeds.
Secure Personal Information: Protect sensitive details that could be used to forge documents.
Consult a Real Estate Attorney: At the first sign of suspicious activity, get professional help.
Whether you’re buying a home, a cabin, or a stretch of land in the mountains, knowing how to protect your Western NC real estate from title fraud is essential. Stay vigilant—and stay informed.