Wire Fraud & First-time Home Buyers - How we educate our buyer clients

by Stacy Dinucci Kitchell

🎯 First-Time Buyers Are Prime Targets for Wire Fraud

Great article on Wire Fraud from Florida Association of Realtors -- please be aware! Wire fraud is on the rise - and first-time homebuyers are three times more likely to fall victim, according to the 2025 State of Wire Fraud Report (via Florida Realtors).

🚨 Key Stats:

- 1 in 20 consumers in real estate deals lose money to fraud.
- 25% report receiving suspicious messages during the transaction.
- 50% of buyers still start the process unaware of wire fraud risks.

🎭 How It Happens:

Scammers monitor emails, spoof trusted contacts, and send fake wiring instructions—often just before closing. Some even use AI voice deepfakes to impersonate agents or title reps.

🔐 How to Stay Safe:

- Always verify wiring instructions by phone using a known number.
- Don’t rely on emails for sensitive financial info.
- Be wary of sudden changes in instructions or contact info.

🧠 Buyers Expect Protection:

35% of buyers say agents should educate them on wire fraud—and 80% would pay more for a professional who prioritizes security.

🛡️ Our Commitment:

At Engel & Völkers Upper Tampa Bay, we prioritize education and proactive security steps to protect your transaction from start to finish.

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Why Work With Us?

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👩‍💼 Our Leader

Stacy Dinucci Kitchell, License Partner, Broker/Owner of Engel & Völkers Upper Tampa Bay

💼 A “recovering” Real Estate Financial Analyst with a deep background in pricing strategy, Stacy combines industry knowledge with personalized service.

📘 BS in Finance, Indiana University – Kelley School of Business

🏆 Recipient of the 2025 Engel & Völkers Ruby Award

🔗 View Stacy’s LinkedIn Profile