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
Agricultural property presents unique opportunities for scammers to impersonate landowners and attempt to sell rural property they do not own. And in many cases, they are getting dangerously close to succeeding.
Early wheat harvest is moving, but rain, drought stress, and disease pressure will determine yield and quality.
Higher input costs and tighter cash flow are keeping pressure on farm income, credit needs, and capital spending.
University of Wisconsin-Madison’s John Shutske says simple safety habits can help prevent some of agriculture’s most common injuries.
Cattle producers met with lawmakers to discuss the issues continuing to impact ranchers across the country.
Founder Jon Mollhagen says automation continues playing a larger role in reducing labor demands and animal stress.

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:

Dr. Joana Colussi says differences in input costs, trade conditions, and second-crop risks continue shaping profitability in both countries.
The Perrier family says maintaining herd quality has helped keep the operation strong.
RFD-TV’s Memorial Day Music Marathon is designed to celebrate America’s musical traditions while honoring the spirit of the holiday with performances rooted in country, gospel, and bluegrass.
Current estimates are already hovering around 80 weeks.
Cattle markets continue supporting rural land values, but lenders say repayment rates and carryover debt are becoming a larger focus.
Analysts say drought, tight cattle supplies and summer grilling demand continue shaping the protein market outlook.