Scammers can commit deed fraud by filing fake paperwork with the county, making it seem like they own someone else’s home or land—without the real owner's knowledge. This can lead to long legal fights or even losing the property.
To help protect property owners, new laws - Public Acts 154 and 155 of 2024 (each can be found in the supporting documents below) were passed last year. Many counties also offer free fraud alert services that warn property owners if someone tries to make changes to their property records.
Genesee County Register of Deeds has a Property Fraud Alert service link on their website.
Click here to be redirected to the Genesee County Register of Deeds website.