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
USDA says both crops remain ahead of the five-year average as farmers continue monitoring dry Corn Belt conditions.
Texas Farm Bureau takes us behind the scenes at USDA’s sterile fly facility, considered a first line of defense against New World Screwworm, a fight Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller fears is “futile.”
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney joins us to discuss Canadian farmer sentiment, saying many are also struggling with profitability and long-term outlook in agriculture.
Several fires have merged into Kansas’ largest active wildfire as crews continue battling shifting winds and dry conditions.
The Texas Agriculture Commissioner says crews are still working to contain fires while farmers and ranchers begin assessing damage.

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:

Kentucky Farm Bureau President Eddie Melton joins us to discuss fertilizer affordability concerns, Senate Agriculture Committee testimony, and spring planting conditions in Kentucky.
Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition joins us to discuss the proposed federal gas tax suspension, fuel cost pressures, and what the policy could mean for agriculture and transportation.
Officials say the tool could give Florida citrus growers another option against a disease that has devastated production for decades.
NCGA President Jed Bower joins us to discuss the House passage of year-round E15 legislation, potential opposition in the Senate, China trade talks, and spring planting progress.
ASFMRA’s Chad Hertz joins us to discuss farmland trends, economic pressures facing producers, and how outside influences are shaping today’s land market.
Scouts say yields are landing close to USDA projections as they monitor drought pressure and abandonment concerns.