Additional Coverage:
- A couple got shocked messages from friends asking if they were moving. Nope, a scammer had put their home on Zillow. (newsbreak.com)
In an unfortunate turn of events for a Kansas City couple, Jamey and Lauren Bertram, their expansive home, valued at over $1 million, was falsely advertised for sale on Zillow for the shockingly low price of $10,000. This scam listing invited interested buyers to send $200 to supposedly secure a chance to view the property. The Kansas City Star was the first to uncover this deceptive scheme, highlighting the vulnerabilities present in today’s competitive real estate market.
Imagine the Bertrams’ surprise and confusion as they were bombarded with email inquiries and visitors, all stemming from a fraudulent listing of their 5,300-square-foot residence, bought for around $1 million in 2019. According to The Kansas City Star, the original post appeared legitimate, showcasing photos from their 2019 purchase, but it quickly took a suspicious turn with the drastically reduced asking price.
The scammer’s message was cunningly crafted to appear benevolent, claiming the low price was part of an annual gesture to assist first-time buyers and serve as a tax write-off. The listing discouraged professionals like real estate agents or attorneys from inquiring further, directing potential buyers to a contact named Mandi, with a Las Vegas-based phone number.
A follow-up by the newspaper revealed a request for a $20 upfront payment via an online app, promising a house tour and refund for those who don’t make an offer. This listing has since been removed, but the duration it was active remains unclear.
The startling incident underscores a broader issue of fraud within the real estate industry. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, internet scams, including real estate fraud, have surged, with losses reaching $12.5 billion in 2023, a significant jump from the previous year. Real estate wire fraud, categorized as business email compromise (BEC), ranks high among the costliest internet crimes, affirming the critical need for vigilance among buyers.
Further emphasizing the prevalence of such schemes, a similar case occurred in Seattle, where Galen Caldwell’s home was also listed without his permission, echoing the Bertrams’ ordeal. These incidents not only illustrate the audacity of online scammers but also the ongoing challenges facing individuals in a high-stakes housing market. Despite the listing’s removal, the Bertrams continue to deal with the fallout, fielding inquiries from hopeful buyers misled by the fraudulent ad.