The California Dept. of Real Estate has issued a consumer alert about what to do if someone learns that a forged and/or fraudulent deed has been recorded against their real property.  According to the alert, those who have learned of the fraudulent deed must act immediately to protect their ownership interest in the home.  Homeowners should immediately gather and collect all of the information, documents, and other evidence and report the forged deed to:

• The local police and/or Sheriff’s department, and to such police agencies where the property is located (if different from where the owner resides.)

• The offices of the city and district attorneys where the home is located

• The office of the recorder in the county where the property is located

• The local city’s or county’s department of consumer affairs

• The California Secretary of State, Notary Public Section.

• The California Dept. of Real Estate