BIC TIP #1206: Vacant Land Scams, Assume It Is a Scam Until It Is Not

Stephen Long, The Notorious BIC, does not mince words on this one: if you get a call to list vacant land, assume it is a scam until it is not. That is how rampant vacant land fraud has become in the real estate industry, and brokers are on the front line.

Why Vacant Land Is the Perfect Target

With vacant land, there is no dwelling to visit, no owner living on site, and no neighbor knocking to ask why there is a sign in the yard. That makes it an ideal target for fraudsters who pose as the owner of property they have no rights to.

The real owner may live out of state or may not check on the land for years. By the time anyone notices, the damage can be done.

The Damage Is Real

Stephen describes cases where money changed hands with fraudulent sellers, where buyers lost their money, and where true owners had no idea anything was happening. In some cases, the deed was even transferred and the real owner did not know they had “sold” their property.

For the broker, being the agent who listed a stolen property is a nightmare: unhappy buyers, angry true owners, potential liability, and a lot of explaining to do.

Do Your Due Diligence

Stephen’s checklist is straightforward. Look up the deed. Look up the tax record. Find the people. Compare the owner of record with the person calling you, and reach out to the owner through contact information you locate independently, not just the number or email the caller provided.

Verify identities. Do not rely on a Zoom call and a friendly face. Be wary of sellers who refuse to meet in person, want to sell well below market, push for a fast cash closing, or will only communicate by text or email. Loop in your broker-in-charge and the closing attorney early if anything feels off.

The Practical Takeaway

Keep your red flag up the pole every single time you are asked to list vacant land. Verify ownership through public records, confirm identity independently, and slow down when the story does not add up. A few extra minutes of skepticism can protect a property owner, a buyer, and your own license.

This BIC Tip is general real estate education for licensees and consumers, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Rules and forms change, so verify current NCREC rules, MLS rules, and standard forms, and consult a North Carolina attorney or qualified professional about your specific situation. See Disclaimers & Disclosures.