Issue 4: Seller Impersonation Fraud — The Scam That's Hitting Nevada Real Estate
This one is happening right now in markets across the country — including Nevada. Seller impersonation fraud is one of the fastest growing threats in real estate, and every agent needs to know how to spot it.
How the scam works
A fraudster identifies a property that is free and clear — no mortgage, no liens — typically owned by someone who lives out of state or is otherwise disconnected from the property. They contact a real estate agent posing as the owner, list the property, accept an offer, and attempt to push through a quick cash closing before anyone catches on.
By the time the real owner finds out, the fraudster has collected proceeds and disappeared.
The red flags
Seller is eager to close quickly with no contingencies
Seller prefers to communicate only by text or email, not phone or video
Seller is out of state or out of the country
Property is free and clear with no mortgage
Seller declines to meet in person or via video call
ID documents look slightly off or are difficult to verify
What title companies are doing
At the closing table, title and escrow companies have added verification layers specifically targeting seller impersonation. This includes enhanced ID verification, callback procedures, and flagging transactions that match the profile above.
What agents should do
If a listing opportunity feels off — trust it. Request a video call with the seller. Verify their identity independently before proceeding. And communicate with your title partner early if anything about the transaction feels rushed or unusual.
The bottom line
Seller impersonation fraud succeeds when everyone assumes someone else is watching. You are the first line of defense. Stay skeptical, stay curious, and loop in your title rep early.
The Resourceful is published every Tuesday by Jeremy Wallace, title and escrow sales executive serving Las Vegas and Henderson area real estate agents.