FinCEN Anti-Money Laundering Real Estate Report Guide

Understanding FinCEN's Real Estate Report

FinCEN's Residential Real Estate Rule requires certain professionals involved in real estate closings and settlements to submit reports to FinCEN regarding certain non-financed transfers of residential real estate to legal entities or trusts.

When required, the closing professional must report to FinCEN key information about the buyer, including the entity or trust structure and the individuals who own or control it, limited identifying information about the seller, and basic transaction details such as the property, purchase price, and how the transaction was funded.

Sun Title will proactively help identify reportable transactions early, guide real estate professionals on when the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Rule applies, and clearly communicate what information buyers and sellers will need to provide.

For more information on FinCEN's Residential Real Estate Rule and the required Real Estate Report can be found below.

Upcoming CE Course

Sun Title's FinCEN Reporting Rule and Money Laundering CE directly applies to daily real estate practice by helping agents, brokers, and attorneys spot potential FinCEN issues early, set accurate expectations with buyers and sellers, and avoid last-minute surprises that can delay or disrupt closings.

1 Hour Legal Virtual CE Course
Wednesday 2/18/2026 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM ET

A Guide to Determine if Your Transaction is Reportable Under FinCEN's Residential Real Estate Rule

Ask About Buyer Structure

Ask: "Are you buying as an individual, LLC, trust, or other entity?" The answer determines if FinCEN reporting applies.

At Contract - Ask About Financing

Ask: "Bank mortgage or paying cash?" If they say cash, private loan, hard money, or seller financing, flag it. Traditional bank mortgage usually means no report needed.

Entity or Trust + No Bank Mortgage? Call Sun Title Now

If both boxes are checked, contact Sun Title immediately. Early heads-up means smooth closing. Late discovery means delays and headaches.

Preparing for a great real estate closing

What Real Estate Professionals and Consumers Need to Know About FinCEN's Residential Real Estate Rule

The resources that follow include short videos, easy-to-understand explanations, and other resources, for real estate professionals and consumers to quickly find answers and understand how to navigate the rule with confidence.