An area homeowner contacted me recently requesting advice on which paid service I recommend for identifying potential real estate fraud activity on their Beverlywood area single family residence.. My response was, “NONE! IT’S A SCAM. Your tax dollars enable you receive this important information for FREE.” Here is an explanation of how the service works. Below you will find a link to the website to register.

The Los Angeles County Assessor’s e-Notification service gives homeowners the opportunity to register their e-mail to be alerted whenever a foreclosure, transfer of title, or mortgage is recorded on their property with the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk. This notification allows property owners a means to identify potential real estate fraud activity, such as a fraudulently recorded lien or deed.

What is the Property Owner e-Notification Alert?

Currently, the Registrar-Recorder will, within 30-days, mail a copy of a Grant Deed, Quit Claim Deed, Deed of Trust, or, within 5-days, mail a copy of a Notice of Default, or Notice of Sale to the property owner upon its recording. Now, homeowners can also opt-in for e-mail notifications. Once a homeowner registers, they will be sent an e-mail of any activity on their property within 48-hours.

How does a homeowner enroll in the Property Owner e-Notification?

To enroll in Property Owner e-Notification Alert, the homeowner simply creates a profile on the Los Angeles County Assessor’s portal website at https://assessor.lacounty.gov/news-information/enotification, click on Register Today, fill in the information, check the box for Opt-In for AIN/Recorded Document e-mail notification and click submit. Once they have created an account, log in to the portal and select “Property Owner e-Notification Alerts” on the landing page. Enter the AIN (Assessor Identification Number) on the “Property Owner e-Notification Registration” page and select “Add.” Once added, they will begin to receive electronic notifications when a document is recorded with their linked AIN. A homeowner may repeat this step to register any other LA County properties on their account. There is no limit and there are no fees.

Why does the LA County Assessor offer E-Notification?

The service allows property owners the opportunity to seek free, legitimate assistance and helps them avoid falling victim to real estate scams. Also, if a property owner suspects erroneous or fraudulent activity, they can report it to the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs at (800) 593-8222, online at dcba.lacounty.gov, or by e-mail at homehelp@dcba.lacounty.gov.

Dan May is among the leading real estate professionals in Los Angeles County. He can be reached at (310)739-8647 and dan@danmayrealestateteam.com Give Dan a call to confidentially discuss your options, your home’s value and/or for a list of local vendors.