Valentine’s Day is a season of love, connection, and celebration. Unfortunately, it is also a peak time for scams. When emotions run high and people are more trusting, fraudsters increase their efforts. For homebuyers and homeowners, this can create serious financial risk.

Real estate transactions involve large sums of money, which makes them a prime target for wire fraud and title fraud. Understanding common homebuyer scams can help you protect your savings and your peace of mind.

Romance Scams and Real Estate Wire Fraud

Romance scams cost victims over $1.3 billion last year, making them one of the most costly forms of consumer fraud. These scams often begin with what feels like a genuine relationship. Over time, trust is built. Then an urgent request for money follows.

For homebuyers and sellers, this becomes especially dangerous when a scammer attempts to interfere with a real estate transaction. Fraudsters may pressure someone to send money quickly or suggest a last-minute change to wire instructions.

Wire fraud in real estate often occurs when criminals impersonate a trusted party and request funds be sent to a fraudulent account. Always confirm wire instructions directly with your title company using a verified phone number before sending any money.

Valentine’s Deals and Online Homebuyer Scams

Valentine’s Day promotions are everywhere, and scammers know how to disguise themselves as legitimate businesses.

Warning signs include:

• Extremely low prices on flowers, jewelry, or gifts from unfamiliar websites
• Emails or text messages posing as well-known brands with suspicious links
• Websites requesting unnecessary personal or financial information

These types of scams may seem unrelated to real estate, but compromised personal information can later be used in title fraud or wire fraud attempts. Before clicking, review website addresses carefully and avoid rushed decisions. Using a credit card instead of a debit card can provide added protection if fraud occurs.

Sweet Messages That Lead to Title Fraud

Not every Valentine’s message is harmless.

Fraudsters often use emotional subject lines like “You’ve received a Valentine’s eCard” or “A special gift is waiting for you.” These messages may contain malware or phishing links designed to steal login credentials and personal data.

Stolen information is frequently used in homebuyer scams, including fraudulent wire requests and attempts to redirect closing funds. Fake charity appeals are also common during this season and rely on emotional giving.

If you are unsure about an email, text, or message, do not click. Delete it or verify the sender through a trusted source.

How Verus Title Helps Protect Homebuyers and Homeowners

At Verus Title, protecting your money is just as important as completing your transaction. Wire fraud and title fraud are not always obvious, and scammers often target buyers and sellers when they are busy or excited about closing.

That is why Verus Title uses secure systems, strict verification protocols, and clear communication to help safeguard every transaction. We also educate homebuyers and homeowners on how to recognize real estate fraud before it becomes costly.

This Valentine’s Day, focus on the joy of buying or selling a home, not the risk of fraud. With awareness and a trusted title partner, you can move forward with confidence.

If you ever receive a suspicious request related to your closing, contact Verus Title directly using a known phone number. We are here to help protect your home, your funds, and what matters most.

Written by: Liza Ratley