Deed theft remains a growing threat for seniors, Black homeowners

For generations, real estate has been the primary vehicle for building intergenerational wealth in America. But for older adults and Black homeowners, that vehicle has also made them a target, says Scott Kohanowski, general counsel at the Center for NYC Neighborhoods. New York City recently established a Deed Theft Prevention Office, building on longstanding community-based efforts like the Homeowner Protection Program that help residents identify, prevent and respond to deed theft before they lose their homes. Kohanowski sat down with HousingWire to explain why deed theft disproportionately targets older adults and Black homeowners, the red flags homeowners should watch for and what other cities can learn from New York’s approach. Editor’s note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Jonathan Delozier: Is deed theft getting worse or is public awareness finally catching up to the full extent of the problem? Scott Kohanowski: I think this has always existed, and I think real estate empires have been built on deed theft, scam and predation that’s been targeting distressed communities, especially. I don’t know if it’s increasing, but I think we’re probably noticing it ...