New alert system warns property owners of real estate fraud
Fairfax County property owners can now receive alerts whenever any documents are filed in connection with their real estate records.
The Fairfax Circuit Court Property Alert Notification System was launched Oct. 9 by the Fairfax Circuit Court Clerk’s Office in collaboration with the Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration and the Department of Information Technology.
The free e-alert service is available through MyFairfax for Fairfax County and City of Fairfax property owners. To set up an alert, follow these instructions.
The alerts are designed to help property owners stay informed and receive an email alert if any documents are filed with the court’s Land Records Division matching the property owner’s name.
Through a timely alert, the system provides early detection of potential fraud, including unauthorized deed filings, transfers, or other suspicious activity involving real property records.
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“The Property Alert Notification System is an important new tool to help safeguard our residents’ most valuable assets,” said Clerk of the Court Chris Falcon. “By giving property owners free and rapid notice of any filings recorded on their property, we are strengthening transparency, as well as safety and security for our residents.”
“We have seen cases of property fraud where bad actors presented fraudulent documents to convey real estate in Fairfax County,” said Rafael Arancibia Jr., public information officer for the Circuit Court. “Some owners have even found their properties listed for sale online.”
“Seller impersonation is used to fool purchasers, notaries, real estate agents, and title agents,” Arancibia said.
A report by the Virginia Housing Deed Fraud Technical Advisory Group found that fraud most commonly involves vacant land and homes that are not regularly occupied, such as second homes and vacation homes.