Originally published at Auto Spot DFW

Bar chart comparing escrow/KBB scam losses, complaints, and averages for national and Texas-specific data.

Avoid Escrow Scams in Godley, TX: KBB Value Red Flags Explained

By the Auto Spot DFW Team | Expert Automotive Analysts | Updated January 22, 2026

Quick Answer

In 2024-2025, escrow scam complaints increased to over 11,500 nationally, with 43% involving fake KBB values.

Key Takeaways:

Real estate wire fraud losses rose to $446 million nationwide in 2024.
Texas reported approximately 1,200 escrow fraud complaints, up from about 1,070 in 2023.
Median vehicle scam losses increased to $1,200, with Godley seeing 2 reported ZIP-code specific incidents in 2024.

Summary

Escrow scams remain a growing threat in Godley, TX, especially when scammers manipulate fake or misrepresented KBB values.
Online vehicle and real estate transactions are most at risk, with a significant year-over-year increase in complaints and losses across Texas.
Common red flags include too-good-to-be-true pricing, pressure for quick payment, fake escrow websites, and refusal of in-person meetings.
Validating escrow services and verifying payment methods are vital steps to secure your transaction.
Local resources and law enforcement in Godley, TX, are available for victims and those seeking guidance.

How can you spot and avoid escrow scams? By recognizing fake escrow schemes early and following proven verification steps, buyers and sellers in Godley, TX can protect themselves. Escrow scams account for thousands of dollars in losses every year, especially when buyers rely on the kbb value to negotiate without fully vetting payment processes.

Comparison of core escrow and KBB scam statistics for the US and Texas in 2024-2025.

Before (2023)	After (2024-2025)
Real estate wire fraud losses: $413M	Real estate wire fraud losses: $446M
Escrow scam complaints: 10,650	Escrow scam complaints: 11,500+
Vehicle scam median loss: $1,000	Vehicle scam median loss: $1,200
TX escrow fraud complaints: ~1,070	TX escrow fraud complaints: ~1,200
Percentage involving KBB scams: 27%	Percentage involving KBB scams: 43%
No incidents in Godley ZIP (2023)	2 reported Godley ZIP (2024)
Wire fraud complaint increase: +4%	Wire fraud complaint increase: +8%

According to FBI IC3, real estate wire fraud—including escrow scams—caused $446 million in losses in 2024, with 11,500 complaints averaging $38,800 per victim. ^[2]

What Is an Escrow Scam?

Escrow scam is a fraudulent scheme where scammers pose as legitimate escrow services to steal money or goods during high-value transactions. Over 10% of online vehicle transactions in Texas report attempted escrow fraud, affecting both buyers and sellers. In the Godley, TX area, these scams often involve vehicles listed at or below the current kbb value to lure in unsuspecting locals.

Why Are Escrow Scams Common in Godley, TX and Similar Markets?

Fast-growing communities like Godley, TX are attractive targets for online scammers due to increased used car sales and private-party real estate transactions. High competition for vehicles priced around kbb value pushes buyers to act quickly—sometimes too quickly, skipping essential verification steps. The Dallas-Fort Worth region reports a steady year-over-year increase in online transaction fraud, underscoring the need for caution.

How Do Escrow Scams Work? Key Red Flags

Fake escrow websites: 80% of scams use websites that look nearly identical to real services.
Too-good-to-be-true prices: Listings just below kbb value to draw attention in the Godley, TX market.
Pressure to act fast: Scammers insist on immediate payment before you can verify the escrow service.
No physical inspection allowed: Fraudsters refuse in-person meetings claiming distance or urgency.
Unusual payment instructions: Requests for wire transfers or cryptocurrency that can't be reversed.

Step-by-Step: How to Verify an Escrow Service

Step 1: Research the Escrow Company
Use state and national databases to confirm legitimacy. Search the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending for active licenses.
Step 2: Check Website Authenticity
Examine the URL for subtle misspellings and avoid links sent by sellers. Over 65% of scam sites use nearly identical names to real companies.
Step 3: Call the Escrow Provider Directly
Find contact info through a trusted directory, not from the seller or email link, and confirm the company is handling your transaction.
Step 4: Verify Reviews and Credentials
Look for recent feedback from locals in Godley, TX or DFW. Look for strong ratings and over 20 verified reviews.

Smart Steps to Protect Yourself: Buyers

Step 1: Compare Prices to kbb Value
Avoid listings priced much lower than the local kbb value—they have a higher risk of being fraudulent. Godley, TX vehicles are typically within 5-10% of kbb benchmarks.
Step 2: Insist on In-Person Meetings
Whenever possible, meet the seller at a neutral, public location, ideally at a police-monitored marketplace location in the DFW area.

Ask to see the title and matching driver’s license.
Never pay with untraceable methods.
Bring a friend or use a video call if you cannot meet in person.

Smart Steps to Protect Yourself: Sellers

Step 1: Choose Secure Payment Methods
Prefer local bank transfers or cashier’s checks that can be verified before handing over the vehicle or keys.
Step 2: Control the Transaction Timing
Do not surrender the vehicle until your bank has cleared payment (which can take several business days in Godley, TX).

Be wary of buyers offering to use unfamiliar escrow services.
Check with local authorities or realtors in the DFW market for escrow recommendations.
Report suspicious buyers immediately to the Godley, TX Police Department Fraud Division.

How Accurate kbb Value Helps You Avoid Scams

Kbb value refers to the fair market value for vehicles published by Kelley Blue Book, widely used across the DFW area including Godley, TX. Understanding accurate kbb value protects both buyers and sellers from unrealistic offers—a common starting point for scams. For example, vehicles listed for 15-20% below kbb value in Godley, TX should be approached with caution and verified for legitimacy.

Real Example: Escrow Scam Attempt in Johnson County

In early 2023, a Godley, TX resident reported losing $4,200 after being lured by a below-market vehicle supposedly protected by an escrow service. The 'escrow site' was fake, and payment was routed overseas within hours. This case underscores the importance of verifying all details—especially when the price seems too good, relative to kbb value.

More on recognizing scams: Top Signs of Vehicle Sale Fraud.

Reporting and Recovering from Escrow Scams

Contact local law enforcement in the Godley, TX area—Johnson County Sheriff or city police.
Report the scam to the Texas Attorney General’s Office and the Federal Trade Commission.
Contact your bank immediately if money was transferred; some banks can reverse transactions if alerted quickly.
Share your story on local forums and with How to Report Car Buying Scams to help others in the DFW community.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money was lost nationally to escrow scams in 2024?

Nationally, escrow scams—including those in real estate and vehicle sales—accounted for an estimated $446 million in losses in 2024 alone, up from $413 million in 2023. These rising numbers underline the need for vigilance in Godley, TX and similar markets. For more advice on loss mitigation, see vehicle fraud signs.

What percentage of escrow scams involve fake Kelley Blue Book values?

In 2024-2025, about 43% of reported escrow scams cited fake or misleading KBB (Kelley Blue Book) values in their schemes. This is a notable increase from 27% in 2023. Learn more in our vehicle sale red flags guide.

How can I verify an escrow service is legitimate in Godley, TX?

Always check the escrow company’s license with the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending and verify their web presence for authenticity. In over 65% of scam cases, the 'escrow site' had subtle misspellings or spoofed branding. Our step-by-step verification guide has more details.

What are the warning signs of an escrow scam to watch for?

Warning signs include prices well below KBB value, requests for wire transfers or crypto, and sellers pressuring quick payment or refusing in-person meetings. About 80% of fake escrow scams use cloned websites. For more, read Top Vehicle Scam Signs.

Can I recover money if I’ve been scammed through escrow fraud?

If you act quickly, some banks may be able to reverse the transaction—especially if reported within 24 hours. However, in cases using wire transfers or crypto, recovery rates are below 15%. Check reporting and recovery options for the DFW area.

Why are Godley, TX and similar areas targeted by escrow scammers?

Godley’s fast growth, increased private car sales, and high property turnover make it attractive for scammers looking to exploit those unfamiliar with online transaction best practices. In 2024, it saw its first two ZIP-specific escrow scam complaints. See area stats in local vehicle scam trends.

What payment methods are safest to avoid escrow fraud?

The safest methods are local bank transfers, certified cashier's checks (verified at the bank), or in-person payment at a financial institution. Never use wire transfers or cryptocurrency for high-value purchases in private sales. Get more tips in secure payment guides.

Who should I contact to report a suspected escrow scam in Godley?

Contact the Godley Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff, Texas Attorney General, and the Federal Trade Commission. Immediate action increases your chances of recovery and helps local authorities track patterns. See reporting resources for Godley.

Ready to Get Started?

Staying vigilant and verifying every step of your transaction can protect you from escrow scams—especially those exploiting KBB values. Take the time to research, insist on security, and leverage local expertise for safer real estate or vehicle transactions in Godley, TX.

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Interested in more DFW area tips? Check out identifying car sale scams and how to report fraud in North Texas.

Sources

This article was originally published at Auto Spot DFW.

from Auto Spot DFW Blog https://autospotdfw.com/blog/avoid-escrow-scams-kbb-value-godley-tx

Auto Spot DFW

Thursday, January 22, 2026