Home Title Theft: How Washington Homeowners Can Protect Their Property

Home title theft is a growing and dangerous threat that can strip homeowners of their property rights without warning. According to the FBI, real estate-related crimes including title theft resulted in nearly $175 million in losses in 2024 alone. With reports of forged deeds on the rise in 2025, it’s more important than ever for Washington homeowners to stay vigilant.

What Is Home Title Theft?

Home title theft occurs when a criminal fraudulently claims ownership of your property by recording a fake deed with the county recorder’s office. Often, they forge the homeowner’s signature or use false identification to impersonate the rightful owner.

Once a fraudulent deed is recorded, criminals can:

• Take out loans or mortgages against the property

• Rent or sell the home to unsuspecting buyers

• Attempt to evict the real homeowner
  
  

For many victims, the crime goes unnoticed until trying to sell, refinance, or after receiving an eviction notice.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While any homeowner in Washington could be targeted, scammers often focus on:

• Older adults who may be isolated

• Immigrant communities or low-income homeowners

• Owners of vacant, rental, or vacation properties

• Families of deceased homeowners (through probate scams)

• Homeowners behind on taxes, in foreclosure, or seeking mortgage relief
  
  

Homes in neighborhoods with rapidly rising property values may face even higher risk.

Warning Signs of Home Title Theft

Watch for these red flags:

• Receiving mortgage or loan documents you never applied for

• Property tax or utility bills that stop arriving or are addressed to someone else

• Discovering your home is listed for sale without your consent

• Finding out your rental or vacant property is being used without your knowledge
  
  

How to Protect Your Title in Washington

Here are steps every homeowner can take to prevent and detect title fraud:

1. Consult an Attorney Before Signing Documents
   Always have property-related paperwork reviewed. Free legal aid or housing counselors may be available if hiring an attorney is difficult.

2. Purchase Owner’s Title Insurance with Fraud Protection
   Unlike standard lender’s policies, owner’s title insurance can cover legal expenses if fraud occurs after closing.

3. Sign Up for County Deed Alerts
   Many Washington counties offer free notifications when a deed or lien is filed against your property. Check with your local recorder’s office.

4. Consider Title Monitoring Services
   Private services, sometimes called “title lock insurance,” alert you to new filings. While they don’t prevent fraud, early detection is key.

5. Check Your Title Regularly
   Make it a yearly habit, such as during tax season to verify no fraudulent documents have been recorded.

6. Explore Trusts, LLCs, or Transfer-on-Death Deeds
   Placing property in a trust or LLC adds protection. Transfer-on-death deeds, available in many states, secure property transfer to heirs while deterring fraud.

7. Stay Connected
   Scammers often prey on isolation. Talk with family, friends, or trusted professionals about suspicious requests and check in on older homeowners regularly.
   
   

What to Do if You Suspect Title Theft

If you believe you’re a victim:

• Contact your title insurance company

• Notify your mortgage lender immediately

• Hire an experienced real estate attorney to file a “quiet title” action and request a lis pendens, a legal notice preventing the thief from selling or borrowing against your home

• Report the crime to local police, your state attorney general, and the FBI (tips.fbi.gov or 202-324-3000)
  
  

Protect Your Washington Home

Owning a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make. I am a trusted resource for safeguarding your property.

Whether you’re buying your first home, managing an investment property, or seeking guidance on title safety, Kristi Jenkins Real Estate is here to provide expert advice and support. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can protect your home and your future.

If you’re concerned about home title theft or want guidance on keeping your property secure, contact Kristi Jenkins Real Estate today. Together, we’ll ensure your home remains safe and your investment protected.

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