Wire Fraud - Making sure your money is safe!

The FBI reports a rise in wire fraud schemes, with criminals becoming more skilled at executing these attacks. Today’s fraudsters often use professional-looking emails—complete with proper grammar and email signatures—and various non-email methods such as phone calls, text messages, and chatbots. While these scams require minimal technical skill, they’ve become increasingly convincing. Tools like phishing kits are widely accessible, enabling attackers to craft highly persuasive scams. How Does Real Estate Wire Fraud Happen? In a typical scenario, a cybercriminal compromises an email account using malware. This allows the fraudster to monitor communications and potentially send fraudulent messages. Often operating overseas and beyond the reach of U.S. law enforcement, these criminals exploit moments of trust and urgency in real estate transactions. It’s a serious threat, but by staying vigilant and following these steps, you can protect yourself from wire fraud. Step 1: Establish Trusted Contacts Early At the start of your real estate transaction, obtain verified contact information for your Realtor, Lender, and Title Company. Stick to these trusted phone numbers and email addresses throughout the process. Verify that any messages you receive align with this information. Be cautious about phone numbers or contact details appearing in emails, especially if they differ from what you initially received in person. Sophisticated scams often include convincing fake email correspondence. Step 2: Understand the Process and Stick to It Legitimate title companies will never email wire instructions. For example, Title often provides wire transfer details only via fax or snail mail. Always verify instructions with the title company by contacting the trusted number you obtained from your Realtor earlier. Pro Tip: Indiana's Good Funds Law states if you need to bring more than $10,000 to closing, a wire transfer IS REQUIRED.  Reach out to your title company for guidance well in advance. Step 3: Stay Alert to Changes Most reputable title companies never change wire instructions. If you receive an email or message claiming otherwise, it’s fraudulent. Call your title company immediately to confirm any instructions. Be wary of follow-up calls or emails that claim to validate a fraudulent message—these are common tactics used by scammers. Remember, changes to wire instructions, email addresses, or phone numbers are extremely rare. Approach any such changes with suspicion and verify them with a direct phone call to your trusted contact. Step 4: Recognize Timing as a Key Factor Scammers often strike in the final weeks before closing when homebuyers are busy and distracted. They send “urgent” emails pressuring buyers to “act immediately” or “rush delays.” These are clear red flags. Title companies won’t rush you for wire transfers. Fraudsters may also claim there’s been a “change of plans” requiring a down payment before closing. Never respond hastily; instead, verify any such requests with a phone call. Act Quickly if You’re Targeted If you fall victim to wire fraud and authorize a fraudulent transfer, recovering your money can be challenging. Acting swiftly is crucial. Reporting the incident immediately may increase the chances of retrieving some or all of your funds.  The FBI can initiate its Financial Fraud Kill Chain (FFKC) process to help recover funds from international wire transfers if reported within 72 hours. You will also need to contact your local police department and file a report. This step is essential for both legal and insurance purposes. Protect yourself and your investment by staying informed and vigilant. Criminals rely on distraction and urgency—don’t let them take advantage of you.   Tim VicsikRE/MAX 100Tim@TimVicsik.comwww.ND-Condos.com(574) 329-9587  

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What does Title Insurance Cover (and not cover)?

What Does Title Insurance Cover? Imagine sunlight streaming onto your patio, highlighting the beauty of your new home. Now, imagine discovering a hidden legal issue tied to the property’s past ownership. That’s where title insurance steps in to protect your investment. Unlike most insurance policies that guard against future events, title insurance shields homeowners from issues tied to the home’s previous owners. While not mandatory for buyers, it’s often required by mortgage lenders and highly recommended for peace of mind. Let’s break down what title insurance covers—and what it doesn’t. What is Title Insurance? When you purchase a home, you’re not just buying the property—you’re also securing the legal right to own it. But what happens if past issues, like unpaid taxes or an undisclosed heir, surface and challenge your ownership? Title insurance acts as a safeguard against such surprises, ensuring your rights and financial investment are protected.  Typically the Seller will choose the Title Company, or the Mortgage Lender if it's a refinance.  If you've had a great experience and you'd like to use your trusted Title Company, ask your Realtor to write it in to your purchase agreement! Title insurance covers: Claims against your ownership rights: Protects you if someone contests your legal ownership of the property. Legal costs: Helps pay for attorneys if you need to defend your title in court. Financial reimbursement: Covers losses related to past issues up to the policy limit. With title insurance, you can focus on making your house a home without worrying about hidden threats to your ownership. What Title Insurance Doesn’t Cover While title insurance is invaluable, it’s not a catch-all. Here are a few key exclusions: New Issues After Policy Issuance: Problems like unpaid contractor liens after your policy starts aren’t covered. Owner-Created Issues: Any title defects caused by you (e.g., taking out a second mortgage and failing to pay). Legal Violations: Noncompliance with zoning, building codes, or other laws. Current Occupants' Rights: Claims from tenants or others occupying the property. Condemnation: Losses due to government action or land being declared unfit for use. Natural Water Rights: Disputes related to lakes, rivers, or other bodies of water on or near the property. Disclosed Restrictions: Covenant rules you agreed to when purchasing the property. What Does Title Insurance Cover? Title insurance protects against issues tied to the property’s history, including: Unpaid property taxes or liens Fraud or forgery in past deeds Conflicting wills or missing heirs Easements or encroachments Improperly recorded documents In short, it covers many potential headaches so you can focus on enjoying your home. Why Title Insurance Matters Protect Your Money: Avoid financial loss tied to previous owners' mistakes. Cover Legal Costs: Defense against ownership challenges can be expensive—title insurance helps with this. Peace of Mind: Feel secure knowing your property rights are protected. Navigating Title Insurance with Confidence A good Title Company understands the importance of safeguarding your investment. Title issues may not always arise, but when they do, having the right coverage can make all the difference.    Timothy VicsikRE/MAX 100www.ND-Condos.com(574) 329-(574) 329-9587Tim@TimVicsik.com

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How to Save Big with Over 65 Property Tax Deductions in 2024

Apply for Over 65 Property Tax Deductions Discover Two Ways to Save on Your Property Tax Bill Are you a property owner aged 65 or older in South Bend, Indiana? You could be eligible for significant savings on your property tax bill through two key programs: the Over 65 or Surviving Spouse Deduction and the Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit. Even those buying on a recorded contract can benefit. Over 65 or Surviving Spouse Deduction With the Over 65 or Surviving Spouse Deduction, you can enjoy a reduction in your home's assessed value of either $14,000 or half the assessed value, whichever is less. This means a lower assessed value and, ultimately, a smaller property tax bill. Eligibility Requirements: Age: Turned 65 or older by December 31 of the prior year. Surviving Spouse: If your spouse was 65 or older at the time of their death, you must be 60 or older and not remarried. Ownership: Own or be paying on a recorded contract for at least one year. Residency: Live in the property as your primary residence. Income: Combined adjusted gross income of $40,000 or less for the prior year, including the income of your spouse and all others who own or pay rent on the property. Assessed Value: Property assessed at $240,000 or less. Other Deductions: Must not be receiving other property tax deductions except for the mortgage, homestead standard and supplemental deductions, and the fertilizer storage deduction. Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit The Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit is designed to limit how much your property taxes can increase each year. With this credit, your taxes will increase no more than 2 percent annually. Eligibility Requirements: Age: Turned 65 or older by December 31 of the prior year. Homestead Deduction: Must have qualified for the homestead standard deduction on the property this year and last year. Income: Adjusted gross income of $30,000 or less, or a combined adjusted gross income with your spouse of $40,000 or less. Assessed Value: Gross assessed property value of $200,000 or less on the homestead portion of the property. Ownership: Own, be buying on a recorded contract, or have a beneficial interest in the property. Get Started Don't miss out on these valuable savings opportunities. If you meet the eligibility requirements for either the Over 65 or Surviving Spouse Deduction or the Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit, you can significantly reduce your property tax burden. For more information or to apply, contact the city-county offices or consult with a local real estate expert like Tim Vicsik at RE/MAX 100. Tim VicsikRE/MAX 100Tim@TimVicsik.com www.ND-Condos.com 

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