4 Charleston Real Estate Scams You Should Never Fall For

By Matt O'Neill

Matt O'Neill Real Estate represents the region's finest properties with exceptional skill using the most innovative technologies currently available. We offer ultimate privacy and security, speed, and efficiency.

Have you ever imagined losing hundreds of thousands of dollars in an instant? It sounds extreme, but in real estate, it’s a terrifying reality. Scammers are lurking around every corner, waiting for you to slip up so they can snatch your hard-earned money. But with the right knowledge, you can easily outsmart these criminals and protect yourself. Here are four real estate scams you need to avoid:

1. Watch out for wire fraud. Imagine you’re about to close on your dream home, and suddenly, an email arrives from your attorney instructing you to wire $100,000. The email looks legitimate—exact logos, precise wording, everything matches. But here’s the catch: it’s from a fraudster with an email just one letter different from your attorney’s real email. Your money ends up offshore, and you’ll never see it again. Never accept wire instructions via email. Always confirm wire transfers by phone.

2. Beware of rental fraud. Picture this: You hand over thousands in security deposit and the first month’s rent, only to find out the supposed landlord doesn’t even own the property. Your money is gone, leaving you with no home and no recourse. Always verify ownership before paying deposits or rent.

3. Verify ownership to avoid land sale fraud. This happens when you receive an offer to buy a piece of land, only to discover later that the seller doesn’t own it. We’ve stopped this scam four times in just one year. Always check property records before making commitments.

4. Identify fake buyer scams early. Some buyers show interest in luxury homes but may just actually be scoping your property for theft. While seemingly harmless, dealing with these buyers poses significant risks. Always verify buyers’ financial credentials before allowing access.

After knowing these scams, protecting yourself isn’t difficult. Remember: vigilance is key. If you have any questions, feel free to call (843) 619-0401 or email sales@mattoneillteam.com. I look forward to hearing from you!