Georgia Joins Nevada, Florida, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado and More US States Facing Sharp Increase of Winter Real Estate Scams, New Data Shows More

Published on December 28, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

As winter approaches, Georgia joins Nevada, Florida, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, and several other US states, facing a sharp increase in real estate scams. According to new data, the number of winter real estate scams has surged in these states, with scammers preying on buyers eager to close deals before the holidays. Georgia, alongside Nevada, Florida, and other affected states, has seen a significant rise in reports of fraud, leaving homeowners vulnerable to financial loss. Nevada and Florida, in particular, have witnessed alarming numbers, but Georgia is quickly catching up with its own high scam rates.

The data highlights how these states, known for their bustling real estate markets, are now hotspots for scammers. As homebuyers rush to secure properties before Christmas, fraudsters exploit the urgency, leading to devastating financial consequences. Georgia’s inclusion in this growing list of states emphasizes the urgent need for caution.

The spike in winter real estate scams has prompted warnings for buyers across these states. Understanding the risks in Georgia, Nevada, Florida, Alaska, Arizona, and Colorado is crucial for anyone involved in real estate transactions this season. Keep reading to discover more about how to protect yourself from these rising threats.

The winter months can bring more than just cold winds and heavy snow; they also bring a hidden danger that many unsuspecting homebuyers might not see coming: real estate scams. According to a recent study, the states most vulnerable to these scams during the winter season have been revealed, with Nevada leading the nation. The study highlights a sharp increase in scam reports from October to December, as eager homebuyers rush to close deals before the year’s end. With the holidays adding pressure, scammers are capitalizing on the season’s urgency, causing significant financial losses. Florida, known for its booming real estate market, ranks third, with victims losing millions each year. Let’s take a closer look at the data and find out how these scams are impacting the housing market in the most vulnerable states.

Nevada: The State Most Vulnerable to Winter Real Estate Scams

Nevada takes the top spot for the most significant risk of real estate scams, with an alarming 2.64 scam reports per 100,000 residents between October and December. The Silver State’s high scam rate is compounded by its residents losing an average of $16,108 per report, resulting in a total of $1.39 million lost over the winter months. The state’s vulnerability is directly linked to the aggressive real estate market, with many homebuyers desperate to close deals quickly before the holidays. Scammers are exploiting this urgency, presenting deals that seem too good to resist, but ultimately leading to devastating financial consequences.

Georgia: A Close Second with Increasing Scam Reports

Georgia follows closely behind Nevada with 2.29 scam reports per 100,000 residents. The Peach State has become a hotbed for real estate scams, as buyers attempt to finalize deals before Christmas. Victims in Georgia lose an average of $7,440 per scam report, contributing to significant financial losses across the state. The combination of high scam rates and substantial losses has made Georgia one of the most vulnerable states when it comes to winter real estate fraud. Real estate experts suggest that the high demand for homes during this period, combined with the pressure to close deals fast, leaves many buyers susceptible to exploitation.

Florida: The Sunshine State Struggles with Winter Real Estate Scams

Florida, famous for its real estate boom, ranks third in the nation for scam reports during the winter season. With 2.23 reports per 100,000 residents, Florida’s scam rate is 95.6% higher than the national average. The financial impact is severe, with Floridians losing a total of $7.21 million annually during the months of October to December. Despite its booming housing market, Florida’s real estate transactions often attract scammers looking to exploit buyers desperate to secure homes before the new year. With the average loss per scam report in Florida standing at $13,847, the state is undeniably one of the most affected by these fraudulent schemes.

Alaska: The Fourth Most Vulnerable State in the US

While Alaska’s scam rate of 2.16 reports per 100,000 residents is relatively high, the state’s small population leads to fewer total reports compared to other states. However, the financial losses in Alaska are still significant, with an average loss of $10,779 per report. Despite the relatively low number of incidents (just 16 reports in total), the financial impact remains considerable. Real estate scams in Alaska are driven by the same pressures seen in other states: buyers rushing to close deals before the holidays, making them prime targets for scammers.

Arizona and Other States Show Rising Risk

Arizona, with 2.04 scam reports per 100,000 residents, ranks fifth on the list. The state’s residents are losing an average of $18,025 per scam, which is among the highest average losses in the nation. The state’s proximity to Nevada and Florida, along with a strong real estate market, makes it a prime target for scammers. Other states that follow in the rankings include Colorado, South Carolina, and Virginia. These states show a worrying trend, with scam rates and financial losses steadily climbing. The increasing number of reports in these states highlights the growing vulnerability of homebuyers to fraudulent schemes, particularly during the high-pressure winter months.

Wyoming and North Dakota: Extreme Financial Losses Despite Low Scam Rates

At the opposite end of the scale, North Dakota and Wyoming experience relatively few reports of real estate scams, but the financial losses are staggering. North Dakota, with just 0.17 reports per 100,000 residents, sees victims losing an average of $76,142 per scam, making it the second-highest state in terms of average losses per incident. Wyoming, though it has a higher report rate of 1.30, suffers from even greater financial damage, with victims losing an average of $80,694 per scam. These high average losses point to the devastating impact that real estate fraud can have, even in states with lower overall scam rates.

How to Protect Yourself from Winter Real Estate Scams

The holiday season creates the perfect storm for real estate scams. With buyers eager to close deals before Christmas, scammers exploit the rush, often offering deals that seem too good to pass up. The pressure to act quickly can cloud judgment, leaving many buyers vulnerable to fraud. To protect yourself from these scams, it is crucial to verify all parties involved in a real estate transaction through official channels. Always be cautious of deals that seem unusually urgent or that pressure you to act quickly. Never wire money based on email instructions alone, and if something feels off, trust your instincts and seek professional advice.

The Rising Threat of Winter Real Estate Scams in the US

As winter real estate scams continue to rise, it’s essential for homebuyers to stay vigilant and informed. States like Nevada, Georgia, and Florida are particularly vulnerable due to their high scam rates and significant financial losses. While the holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, it’s also a prime opportunity for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers. Understanding the risks and taking the necessary precautions can help protect you from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.

Conclusion: Stay Safe This Winter and Protect Your Investment

Real estate scams are a growing concern, particularly during the winter months when buyers are eager to close deals before the holidays. States like Nevada, Georgia, and Florida are at the forefront of this issue, with high scam rates and significant financial losses. By staying informed and exercising caution, homebuyers can protect themselves from falling victim to these scams and ensure that their real estate investments are safe and secure.