Due Diligence is key

[Benjamin Z. Pickens]

I found a for sale by owner in my area. I sent a text message to the listed phone number with an out of stated area code. I received a phone call back almost immediately. Caller said his name was Andy. He said he was living in Florida and had bought the property from someone who had some personal reasons for getting rid of the property. So I go to the assessor's website for the county to research the property. Turns out "Andy"  is not the the listed owner of the property. Also, the owner's address was a P.O. Box that belongs to the local sheriff's office. 

I called the Sheriff's Office and reported it. It is most likely a scam. I say that to say this: It is highly beneficial to perform due diligence to the greatest extent. I am new to investing and learning things everyday. Just thought I would give some insight for others that are just getting started.