Real estate investing can be a powerful path to wealth—but it's also a magnet for scams. In this cautionary yet empowering blog, the author shares close encounters with fraudulent deals, from fake listings and "guaranteed return" pitches to title fraud and shady investment seminars. Each experience reinforced the importance of due diligence, skepticism, and verifying every detail before committing funds. Tools like a real estate deal analyzer proved essential for uncovering unrealistic promises and protecting against financial loss. The key takeaway: trust your instincts, do your research, and never skip the due diligence—because in real estate, being careful pays.