Buyer Beware: Real Estate Scams on the Rise in Agriculture

Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty joined us to share guidance on preventing land fraud, identifying scams, and protecting farm and rural property owners.

LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas (RFD NEWS) — Real estate fraud is on the rise in the farm sector, with scammers increasingly targeting landowners through new and evolving schemes.

Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss how producers can better protect themselves and their property from land-related fraud.

In his conversation with RFD News, Stephens outlined key strategies landowners should keep in mind to stay safe from fraud, including increased awareness and careful verification of property-related communications and transactions. He also explained how these scams typically work and the tactics often used to target rural landowners.

Stephens further discussed warning signs producers and land buyers should watch for, as well as steps to take if someone believes they are currently dealing with a real estate scam. He emphasized the importance of acting quickly and verifying all information through trusted sources.

Related Stories
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney recaps Farm Credit Canada’s trade forum, Canadian producer sentiment ahead of the USMCA review, and his outlook for U.S.-Canada trade relations.
Wednesday, June 17 at 7:30 PM ET / 6:30 PM CT
Farmers should watch for settlement notices and gather dealer repair invoices, proof of payment, and equipment identification records.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Kevin Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance joins us to discuss evolving insurance needs in the dairy sector and strategies to support dairy producers during National Dairy Month.
RFD-TV Farm Legal Expert Roger McEowen joins us to discuss QTIP trusts, farm succession challenges, and business planning strategies for ensuring smooth transitions in agricultural operations.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joins us to discuss Canada’s livestock import restrictions, producer reaction to the New World screwworm detection in Texas, and the potential implications for cross-border livestock trade.
HTS Commodities’ Lewis Williamson joins us to recap USDA’s latest Crop Progress Report, troubling winter wheat conditions, and key market factors shaping the markets as the growing season progresses.
Senate Ag Chairman John Boozman says Farm Bill text could be released within weeks, with a committee markup targeted for later this summer.
Livestock producers should inspect animals daily, report any suspicious wounds immediately, and comply with local movement restrictions.