How to Avoid Scams When Selling Land Online
Selling land online can open the door to more buyers—but it can also expose you to scammers if you're not careful.
In this guide, we walk through the most common types of land sale scams and how to protect yourself from fraud when listing or negotiating online.
Why Online Sellers Are Targets
Land listings don’t always get the same level of attention or oversight as residential homes. Because of this, scammers often target landowners, especially those selling for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) or through marketplace platforms.
If you’re selling online without an agent, you may be handling inquiries, documents, and transactions yourself—making it easier for bad actors to take advantage.
Common Online Land Sale Scams
Real Example: A landowner in Polk County listed their 0.5-acre lot on Facebook Marketplace. Within a few days, they received an offer above asking price from someone claiming to be a cash buyer relocating from out of state. The buyer sent a "cashier’s check" and requested the seller return $2,000 to cover supposed closing delays. The check later bounced—leaving the seller out thousands of dollars and still stuck with the land.
- The Fake Buyer: They act interested, ask minimal questions, and suddenly request a wire transfer refund or push you to skip the title company.
- Phishing Scams: Scammers posing as buyers may send links or fake documents designed to collect your personal or banking information.
- Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers: Some buyers make over-the-top offers and then pull back last-minute to pressure a price drop.
See: Recovering Money from a Real Estate Scam
How to Protect Yourself
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Stick with verified buyers: Use a reputable land buyer like UNITY or a licensed real estate agent when possible.
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Vet your buyer: Ask for full name, company name, phone number, and proof of funds.
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Use official documents: Always use a formal purchase agreement and request that closing go through a local title company.
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Double-check payment methods: If a buyer insists on a cashier’s check, validate it with the issuing bank.
- Use a Title Company: Never skip this step. A title company handles funds securely and verifies buyer/seller identity.
- Avoid Direct Wire Transfers to Individuals: Always route payments through official escrow accounts.
- Request Proof of Funds: A serious buyer should be able to show a bank statement or letter from a title company.
- Be Skeptical of Rushed Buyers: Scammers often create fake urgency to bypass due diligence.
Red Flags to Watch For
Here are signs the buyer may not be legitimate:
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Vague or inconsistent communication
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Unwillingness to use a title company
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Asking for personal details too early
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Offering to overpay and “refund” the difference
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Refusing to sign a standard purchase agreement
Want to sell safely? Learn about Selling Your Land to a Direct Buyer
Why Working with UNITY Reduces Risk
UNITY makes verified offers backed by data, and we always close through licensed title companies. Sellers never have to worry about handling legal paperwork, buyer identity, or escrow.
We don’t ask for sensitive info upfront, and we explain every step clearly—so you know who you’re dealing with, and what to expect.
You stay in control the entire time.
FAQ
Q: Is Facebook Marketplace safe for selling land?
A: It can be—but you must screen buyers carefully. Don't share personal info until you're working through a title company.
Q: How can I confirm a buyer is real?
A: Ask for proof of funds, a verifiable phone number, and a willingness to use a Florida-based title company.
Q: Should I accept a cashier’s check?
A: Only if it's deposited and cleared through a title company. Fakes are common in scams.
Q: Will UNITY ever ask me to send money?
A: No. We cover most standard closing costs. We’ll never ask you to wire money before closing.
Don’t let scammers steal your time, money, or peace of mind. If you want a safe and verified way to sell your land, UNITY is here to help—with no pressure and no risk.
Ready to Sell Your Land with Confidence?
If you’re looking for a trustworthy company that checks all the boxes—experience, transparency, efficiency, and customer satisfaction—UNITY is here for you.
Thinking about how to sell land? UNITY makes it easy to get started with a secure and hassle-free process — and if you want a deeper understanding of how to sell land, we’ve got a complete step-by-step guide ready for you.
Contact us today to get a fair offer for your land and experience the UNITY difference. Let us help you turn your property into new opportunities, quickly and stress-free.
