Ohio REALTORS® Testifies in Support of Deed Fraud Legislation
By: Andrew Huffman, VP of Legislative Affairs
Ohio REALTORS® is helping lead the fight to protect Ohioans against the criminal activity known as deed fraud. Andrew Huffman, VP of Legislative Affairs at Ohio REALTORS®, provided testimony today on House Bill (HB 749), which would grant County Auditors with permissive authority to establish a property protection program where a property owner may voluntarily register a property and a “freeze” would be placed on the deed. This would prevent a County Auditor from conveying a property until the property owner cancels the freeze. The bill also directs the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing to approve continuing education on deed and title fraud for real estate brokers and salespeople, ensuring licensees are informed on ways to identify fraudulent activity before a property is listed.
Deed fraud is a growing concern throughout the nation and right here in Ohio. According to the FBI, in 2025, real estate-based complaints amounted to over $275 million in losses from over 12,000 victims. In 2024, the Ohio Division of Real State and Professional Licensing issued an advisory notice to make Ohio consumers and real estate professionals aware of the increased threat involving fraudulent real estate listings.
Ohio REALTORS® has been working with the bill’s sponsors, Reps. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) and Matt Kishman (R-Minerva), as well as other stakeholders to make sure this legislation will effectively crack down on fraudulent activity. The bill is currently pending in the House Local Government Committee.
Learn more about HB 749 through the following link: House Bill 749 | 136th General Assembly | Ohio Legislature
Andrew Huffman
Vice President, Legislative Affairs
Serves as the primary lobbyist on state legislative and regulatory issues for Ohio REALTORS®. He is responsible for overseeing the Association’s legislative, regulatory, and political advocacy efforts and coordinating with the Association’s Legislative Steering Committee on reviewing and determining policy positions.
Andrew serves as staff liaison to the Legislative Steering Committee, Enlarge Legislative Committee, Issues Mobilization Committee, and coordinates with the Assistant Vice President of Political Affairs on managing the SPC Advisory Board and RPAC Trustees Committee.
Learn more about Andrew & his role.
