Quitclaim Deed Fraud Is On the Rise in Florida — Here’s How to Protect Your Property

Quitclaim deed fraud is on the rise in Florida.

At first glance, quitclaim deeds might seem like a convenient way to transfer property ownership—especially between family members or trusted parties. But a growing number of scammers are using these documents to commit home title theft, putting unsuspecting homeowners at serious risk.

According to a recent FBI warning highlighted by Florida Realtors, quitclaim deed fraud is surging across Florida, with criminals forging signatures and recording fraudulent property transfers without the true owner's knowledge or consent. These forged deeds are often filed with the county clerk’s office, making the theft appear completely legal—until the rightful owner realizes their property has been “sold” or encumbered by someone else.

This type of scam, often called deed fraud or home title theft, is especially dangerous because it can go undetected for months—or even years. Elderly homeowners, out-of-state property owners, and those without estate planning protections in place are among the most frequent targets.

What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?

The best defense is a proactive one. Here are a few key steps to consider:

—Establish a clear and legally valid estate plan

—Avoid casual or unreviewed use of quitclaim deeds

—Regularly monitor your property records through your county recorder’s office

—Consult an attorney before signing or accepting any deed-related documents

Want to know more? Watch my video on quitclaim deed fraud now on Facebook:

At The Offices of Olivia S. Benson, we help Florida families protect their homes and legacies with comprehensive estate planning and probate services. If you’ve been approached with a quitclaim deed or have concerns about your property title, don’t wait until it’s too late.

📞 Schedule your free 15-minute consultation today by calling 786-245-7746 or send your consultation request at https://www.officesoliviabenson.com/contact-us Your property deserves protection—and we’re here to help.