Nevine Rizk, a senior real estate specialist and mobile notary, spoke about an increasingly serious issue: protecting homeowners—especially seniors and other vulnerable populations—from property fraud.

She explained that home title fraud most often occurs when a property has no mortgage or is held outside of a trust. In these cases, bad actors can fraudulently transfer ownership without the homeowner realizing it until after the damage is done. Unfortunately, homeowners are often not automatically notified when a deed is changed. However, Michigan residents can protect themselves by registering their property with the county Register of Deeds. Once registered, homeowners receive email notifications if any changes or activity occur on their property record, allowing them to act quickly if something looks suspicious.

Registering a home in Michigan involves recording the property deed with the Register of Deeds office in the county where the property is located. If fraud is suspected, a copy of the deed may reveal a forged signature. Homeowners can then contact their mortgage holder (if applicable), the county, or engage an attorney to begin correcting the issue.

From the notary's perspective, Nevine emphasized how important it is to work with a knowledgeable and reputable notary. Michigan does not require formal training for notaries, so consumers should ask about a notary’s experience, background, and familiarity with the specific documents being notarized. A valid notarization must include several key elements: proper identification of the signer, confirmation that the signer is who they claim to be, verification that the information in the document matches the signer, confirmation that the notary is properly commissioned in the State of Michigan, and inclusion of the notary’s official stamp or embosser along with a statement certifying the act.

She also explained the three main types of notarizations: an acknowledgment (where the signer confirms understanding of the document), a sworn statement (where the signer swears to the truthfulness of the contents), and a witness notarization. Notaries do not choose the type—this is determined by the document or the person preparing it.

As a mobile notary, Nevine can meet clients wherever they are, at home, in an office, a hospital, or an assisted living facility.

Her key takeaway: protecting your home is not automatic. Homeowners must take proactive steps to safeguard what is often their largest asset.