How can you stop deed fraud?

ALTHOUGH the city has taken some measures to crack down on fraudulent deeds over the years, it's still surprisingly easy to steal property from its rightful owner. How can the problem be fixed?

The Records Department currently records any document that meets state and city requirements. It does not check for fraud. But in Allegheny County, for instance, all deeds must go through a certification process before they are recorded.

State Sen. Larry Farnese plans to submit bills in the Legislature that would make it tougher for thieves to steal properties. The bills would:

* Require the city Records Department to ensure that the name and signature on the new deed matches that of the owner of record on the previous deed.

* Increase penalties for notaries who knowingly or recklessly authorize fraudulent deeds and for anyone who uses notary stamps to commit a crime.

A property owner can also help prevent deed fraud with a couple of steps:

* Ask a friend or family member

to look after your house if you're going to be away for a while. Don't let mail pile up. If you own an unoccupied house, visit frequently and maintain its appearance.

* If you stop receiving real-estate

tax bills, find out why. Check with the city Department of Records to be sure you're still listed as the owner of the property. Visit http://1.usa.gov/Ub6Gc8 for more information.

Buyers also fall prey to home thefts when the thief resells the stolen house. Here's how a home or property buyer can protect against a fraudulent seller:

* Buy title insurance. It's a one-

time fee that varies depending on the purchase value of your home.

* Know who you're dealing with. Check with the city's Office of Property Assessment to verify who owns the property you're purchasing at http://1.usa.gov/gODcuP.

"Make sure you're dealing with the owner and when signing a contract have someone with you reviewing the contracts," said Police Lt. John Walker, with the Southwest Detectives Division.

Joan Decker, records commissioner, says, "Don't buy property on the block for cash." Buy from professionals. Use a Realtor.

- Jan Ransom