Watch this good, short video on how to protect your money from wire fraud schemes when buying a home…
Month: August 2017
July 2017 Minneapolis & St. Paul Housing Update
The data (courtesy of MAAR) for July 2017 is in, and the results are consistent with what we’ve been seeing for quite some time. The data – compared with one year prior, in July 2016 – are as follows;
1. New Inventory for the month is down, by -3.9%
2. Housing inventory – overall – is down, by -18.3%
3. The median sales price is up, by +5.9%
4. Closed sales are down, by -2.6%
There are many, pre-approved buyers, ready to purchase. The issue is inventory. Certainly the lower levels of inventory put upward pressure on pricing. +5.9% is above average (in a balanced market, it should be @ 3.0%, +/-).
I also hear the same thing among friends of mine in the Realtor and Lending world; inventory is the issue. And this is not a new thing.
Lastly, this inventory problem is NOT predicted to change, anytime soon.
How to Avoid Deed Scams in Minnesota
Our Minnesota Attorney General has published a warning to all buyers and sellers of homes to beware house deed scams. These deed scams aren’t just affecting Minnesota or the Twin Cities area, but have affected people across the country.
These swindlers are tricking buyers and sellers by sending letters posing as a government authority and recommending that they send money to obtain an official, certified copy of their deed. People who are falling for these house deed scams are sending money, but receiving nothing in return.
Some instances where you may need or want a copy of your property deed may include buying or selling your home, refinancing, or transferring title. If you are ever asked for a copy of your deed, ask if they need just a copy or a certified copy. This can save you a little money if just a copy is needed.
If you need a copy of your deed, you can contact the county that the property is in to request it. Typically, if you just need a copy, it is about $1 per page. If you need a certified copy, the price can go up to about $10. Also, you may be able to obtain a copy of your deed from the title company that handled your purchase.
Sadly, scammers are constantly reinventing new ways to con people out of money or personal information. It is affecting the Real Estate Industry more often. The best thing to do is educate yourself. The Minnesota Attorney General’s website is a great resource to read up on “How to Spot a Scam” and common scams that are out there.
If you would like to learn more about how to avoid house deed scams, contact Watermark Title. We’d love to help answer any questions you might have.