In today’s digital age, real estate transactions can often become entangled with misinformation and deceptive practices. Earlier this week we encountered a situation that serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of working with a trusted realtor.

Last Friday afternoon Dyna showed an off-market property to a client - a home that will be officially listed for sale over the weeks ahead. Shortly after viewing the home, our client found it listed on a real estate website as a foreclosure, raising concerns about its availability. This situation highlighted a growing issue in online real estate listings: bait-and-switch tactics designed to capture personal information.

The website in question, RealtyStore.com, featured the home and misleadingly labeled it as a foreclosure. Intrigued, our clients investigated further, only to discover that the listing was a ploy to gather their contact information, which would then be sold to other real estate-related sites (the disclaimer on their website lists the following companies: "RealtyStore.com, Affordable Rent to Own, PrimeStreet, HomeLight, Move Sales, Inc., Opcity, Inc., realtor.com, and their networks of service providers”). The home in question had been sold seven years ago and, although it received a Notice of Election and Demand (NED) in May 2023, the issue was resolved by September.

This practice of exploiting outdated or resolved foreclosure information to lure potential buyers is not just misleading but can also cause undue stress and confusion. It’s a reminder that not all information found online is accurate or reliable.


The Importance of a Trusted Realtor

In this digital landscape, it is more important than ever to work with a trusted realtor who can provide accurate, up-to-date information and guide you through the complexities of the real estate market. Our goal is to support each client with integrity and transparency, ensuring that your journey in the real estate market is as smooth and informed as possible.

Our Commitment to You

We acknowledge that some of you have likely shared your information online with us. Rest assured, the big difference with our approach is our commitment to your privacy and interest. We welcome your curiosity about the local real estate market and aim to support each individual over the days, weeks, months, and sometimes years ahead. Our updates are tailored to provide you with general market trends and specific information relevant to your needs.

Through our secure website and the valuable tools and resources available via our affiliation with ERA and Anywhere Real Estate, along with additional platforms we’ve selected, we strive to maximize the value we bring to you.

Stay Informed and Protected

We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and to rely on trusted sources for your real estate needs. If you ever come across listings that seem questionable or too good to be true, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to provide clarity and ensure your real estate experience is positive and secure.

Thank you for your continued trust and partnership.