Florida Ranks Third in Nation for Winter Real Estate Scams

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- Florida homebuyers, beware. A new study reveals Florida ranks third in the nation for winter real estate scams, with nearly two-point-three reports per hundred-thousand residents during the October through December season. That's nearly double the national average. The research shows Florida residents lose more than seven million dollars every year to these scams during the holidays. Experts say scammers prey on buyers rushing to close before Christmas. If you're buying property, verify all parties through official channels, never wire money based on email alone, and be wary of deals that pressure you to act fast.