Vacant Land Scams Are on the Rise—Here's What You Need to Know

Recently, title companies in Florida have seen a sharp increase in vacant land scams. These fraudulent schemes can derail real estate deals, cost buyers and investors hundreds of thousands of dollars, and leave sellers dealing with a legal mess they didn’t see coming.

If you're buying or brokering land deals, here's what you need to know to stay protected.

What Is a Vacant Land Scam?

A vacant land scam occurs when a fraudster poses as the legitimate owner of a piece of land—often vacant, undeveloped, and mortgage-free—and tries to sell it to an unsuspecting buyer. Because these properties typically don't have residents, tenants, or structures, they draw less attention and are easier targets for impersonation.

Scammers use fake IDs, forged notary stamps, and spoofed emails to list the land, sign contracts, and even close the deal—usually pushing for a fast, all-cash transaction.

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Out-of-the-blue sellers: The “owner” contacts an agent or title company by email and insists they’re out of state or out of the country.

• Unusually low price: The land is listed below market value for a “quick sale.”

• Email-only communication: The seller avoids phone or video calls, and uses generic, vague language.

• Pressure to close fast: Scammers often push to skip formalities and insist on wire transfers.

• Not using a real estate agent: Fraudsters try to avoid professionals who might ask the right questions.

How Title Companies Help Prevent Fraud

At Sunbrook Title, our procedures help detect and stop these scams before they reach the closing table. Here's how we help:

• Verifying seller identity with independent checks, including public records, third-party databases, and direct seller contact.

• Flagging suspicious transactions, especially vacant or out-of-area properties with absentee owners.

• Notarization and ID verification protocols that go beyond minimum requirements.

• Coordination with agents and attorneys to review ownership history, power of attorney documents, and red flags.

  
  

How You Can Protect Yourself

If you're a buyer:

• Always insist on a title search and owner verification.

• Be wary of “great deals” on land that seem too good to be true.

• Work with a trusted title company, especially for cash deals.

  
  

If you're an agent:

• Check that the person claiming to own the land matches the public records.

• Watch out for sellers who won’t talk on the phone or provide ID. MEET THEM IN PERSON.

• Report suspicious listings to your local real estate board or law enforcement.

  
  

Vacant land scams aren’t just headlines—they’re happening right now in our own communities. If you're involved in a land deal and want to be sure you're protected, contact Sunbrook Title today. We'll help you close with confidence.