If you’re purchasing a new home in Palm Beach County — whether it’s your first time, upgrading or downsizing — please protect yourself from possible fraud!!
Florida remains one of the hottest housing markets in the country. We also live in one of the areas most impacted by fraudulent activity!
Here are some suggestions to consider as you settle into your new home:
Tip #1 SIGN UP FOR PROPERTY FRAUD ALERTS
Once you unpack a few essentials, take the first step to protect what is likely your greatest financial asset by registering at: www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/services/property-fraud-alert
This site helps monitor your name (and make sure to include your spouse or anyone else whose name may appear on the deed) in the Clerk of Court’s Official Records system. By doing this, whenever a document is recorded in Palm Beach County, you will receive an alert within 48 hours, detailing what was recorded.
Staying vigilant is crucial and completing the form is simple:
Just register with an email address and the Clerk of Court will handle the rest!
Tip #2 DON’T OVERPAY FOR A COPY OF YOUR DEED
Upon recording a deed, many homeowners then receive a very official-looking notice, which states that by paying $89 for their services, you can receive copies of records of your property deed and/or other property records.
Do not be fooled!
All of these type of documents can be retrieved and viewed for absolutely NO COST whatsoever!!
To receive your 100% FREE documents simply go to: www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/records/officialrecords/official-records-search.
Not computer-savvy? Hard copies are also available from the Clerk of Court at only $1 per page!
Tip #3 KNOW YOUR PROPERTY’S VALUE
Every August, the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser notifies taxpayers of their property’s assessed and market values. If you have a legitimate and reasonable belief that the assessment, classification or exemption status for your property is not accurate, you may (and should) file a Petition with the Value Adjustment Board at www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/departments/value-adjustment-board.
Being Educated, Prudent and Vigilant will all help prevent you from becoming a Victim of Exploitative Predators!
Most importantly, Congratulations on your on your new home and Welcome to Paradise!
Remember: BEFORE Your Troubles Hit the Fan, Please Create Your Estate Plan!!!