As a Queen Creek Realtor, I can tell you that buying a home is one of the most exciting things you will ever do in your life. Whether finding your first home or your dream home, the thrill is always there. And when you have a solid Queen Creek Realtor on your team, you can bet that you will get the best possible guidance along the way.
But buying a home doesn’t come without challenges. There are many things to think about including interest rates, down payments, mortgages, etc. Of course, none of these aspects of the real estate process is a surprise to home buyers.
What might surprise you, however, is the possibility of identity theft.
When you think about it, buying a home requires that you share some very personal and sensitive information. This includes your social security number and addresses, which are key bits of information that someone can use to steal your identity. You also must provide other pieces of information that can put you at risk a well such as detailed financial statements, work history, tax information, and your driver’s license.
So, what can you do to prevent identity theft when buying a home? Finding a reputable lender is key. Here are a few tips you need to pay attention to:
- Ask friends or family members for recommendations and interview a few of them before making a decision.
- Check online ratings and consult the Better Business Bureau for reviews and complaints.
- Ask potential lenders how they handle sensitive information. When looking at mortgage lenders, be advised that they must follow a number of rules including the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act (SAFE Act) and the Red Flags Rule. These rules govern how lenders must protect your information.
While there are no guarantees in today’s world that can absolutely protect you from identify theft, if you are in tune with what you can do to ensure the utmost in safety for your personal information, you can possibly avoid being a victim.
As your Queen Creek Realtor, I will also do everything I can to keep your information safe and secure. Contact me for more information about how I can help you when looking for your next home.
