Deed and title fraud is a growing threat across Ohio. Criminals are impersonating property owners online to fraudulently list and sell homes and vacant land, often before owners even know it has happened. A recent News 5 Cleveland report highlighted a Northeast Ohio case that nearly resulted in the theft of a Boston Heights couple’s property, and it has prompted action at the statehouse.
Ohio REALTORS® is working with State Rep. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) on House Bill 749, which would:
- Require additional agent training on recognizing and preventing deed and title fraud
- Mandate a government-issued photo ID for property transfers at the county recorder’s office
- Establish a 24-hour waiting period for property transfers
In the meantime, homeowners can sign up for their county’s free property fraud alert program, which sends a notification any time a document is recorded against your property. Sign up below:
- Cuyahoga County: Property Fraud Alert
- Portage County: Property Fraud Alert
- Summit County: Property Record Alert
Read the full News 5 story: Northeast Ohio couple’s near-theft of property inspires new legislation
