The New York State Department of State reported a 340% increase in fraudulent listing complaints in 2025, driven largely by AI-generated fake properties. In November 2025, the Department issued a formal consumer alert, and since then I have personally flagged three suspicious listings for clients in Washington Heights and Inwood alone. Here is how to spot the fakes before you lose money.
What Are AI-Generated Fake Listings?
Scammers are now using artificial intelligence to create convincing but completely fake property listings. These can include:
- AI-Generated Photos: Realistic interior and exterior images of properties that don't exist
- Fake Property Descriptions: Compelling copy written by AI that sounds professional
- Phantom Addresses: Listings at real addresses for properties not actually for sale or rent
- Deepfake Video Tours: Virtual tours created entirely by AI
Red Flags to Watch For
Protect yourself by looking for these warning signs:
- Price too good to be true: Significantly below market value for the area
- Pressure to act fast: Urgency to send deposits or sign without viewing
- No in-person showing: Excuses for why you can't tour the property
- Wire transfer requests: Asking for money via wire transfer or cryptocurrency
- Unlicensed agent: Cannot provide valid NYS real estate license information
- Inconsistent photos: Lighting, shadows, or perspectives that don't match
How to Verify Listings
- Check the license: Verify any agent at DOS License Lookup
- Cross-reference: Search the address on multiple platforms (StreetEasy, Zillow, MLS)
- Reverse image search: Check if photos appear elsewhere online
- Demand an in-person tour: Never rent or buy without seeing the property
- Work with a licensed broker: A trusted professional can verify listings for you
Verified Active Listings
Real MLS listings from the REBNY Listing Service
515 E 72nd Street #4-B
Upper East Side
77 Greenwich Street #23-C
Financial District
Listing information provided courtesy of the Real Estate Board of New York's Residential Listing Service (RLS). Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Sale listings verified. ©2026 REBNY. RLS data displayed by Keller Williams NYC.
If You Suspect a Scam
Report suspected fraud to:
- NYS Department of State: dos.ny.gov or (518) 474-4429
- NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection: 311 or nyc.gov/consumers
- FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center: ic3.gov
My Commitment to You
Every listing I share is personally verified. I never use AI-generated content to represent properties, and I'm happy to verify any listing you find elsewhere.
Verify a Listing
