Check Property Records Yearly

Reviewing your property records each year is an important way to protect yourself from fraud, such as a recent real estate scam involving forged documents.

The Scam

Robert A. Tribble Jr. allegedly filed fake deeds with Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller’s offices in south Florida, making it appear as if he owned homes that were not actually his. Tribble primarily targeted vacant homes that were in foreclosure. He then tricked people into giving him money to rent or buy those homes. One victim gave Tribble $23,500 as a down payment on a home. In all, Tribble is accused of defrauding potential buyers and renters out of $240,000.

Protecting Yourself

Our office encourages everyone to review their property records once a year to make sure no one has filed a fake document to take ownership of their property. Search for deeds and other documents in our free online Official Records database. You can also search the Property Appraiser’s records online.

If you suspect a document in the Official Record is forged, contact our office right away at 561-355-2991. Documents cannot be removed from the Official Record without an order from the court.

If you have questions regarding the recording of documents or the Official Record, please do not hesitate to email our office or call (561) 355-2991.