How to Avoid Being Scammed On Real Estate

In today's times, there is always someone out there willing to take advantage.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Notary seal
• Attorney
• Proper paper work
• tax documents
• Time to research

1. When you find a potential house on the market saying "owner finance" be sure that you have the owner of that house notorize those sale documents.

2. Take the address up to the tax office. Find out "who" the owner is, and what taxes are owed, and when they were paid last.

3. Ask around. Check with the neighbors. Ask questions about the property, the owner, and any other details that you may find out.

4. Have an attorney check over all the paperwork to be sure that it is in order. They usually will not cost but a bare minimum simply to look over these documents, and will tell you quickly, if they are not in order.

5. Make friends with a Real Estate Agent. I found a very good one in Lufkin, his name is Tom Flournoy, and knows his business. I highly recommend buying from him. He advised not only me, but my daughter as well in our purchases. You can find him at the Merry Heart Shoppe in down town Lufkin Texas. Or simply call Tom Flournoy Investments. Now that is a good person.

6. Make sure you keep all paperwork, and all receipts. All receipts, including the receipts for things that you do to your house. Not only are they tax deductible, but you have proof of you improvements, should you ever need them.

Tips & Warnings

• Never simply take someones word that says "I own this house"
• Do your research

[sethb1]

on 6/29/2009 I will take note of this and apply this. Good article

[miraculouscoach]

on 5/10/2009 As a veteran Realtor, I appreciate your cautions to folks and also your recommendation of your real estate agent. FSBO is one way to go but working with a Realtor gives you the most protection. Thanks.