The recent warning from the City of Chattanooga

On September 15, 2025, the City of Chattanooga Public Works Department issued a public notice about unofficial flyers appearing in local neighborhoods. These flyers, created by a private company, claimed homeowners faced urgent code violations and pushed them to sell quickly or hire the company for repairs.

The city clarified that these flyers were not official notices and had no connection to the Land Development Office or any other department. Genuine communication from the city always comes on official letterhead or directly from a city inspector whose identity can be verified.

Why does this matter for homeowners? Because fear-based tactics can make people feel pressured into hasty choices, especially if they don’t realize the difference between an official city notice and a solicitation. The city encouraged residents to call the Land Development Office at 423-643-5800 if they ever have questions about a potential violation or want to confirm an inspector’s identity.

For homeowners, this reminder is an important first step: don’t take paperwork at face value. Always confirm the source before reacting.

How scams and scare tactics target homeowners

Unfortunately, scams thrive in times of uncertainty. Homeowners dealing with financial strain, property issues, or inherited houses are often more vulnerable to high-pressure tactics. Scammers know this, and they use fear to make people feel like they have no time to think.

Common scare tactics include:

• Urgency: “Act now or face huge fines.” These statements are meant to trigger panic rather than allow time to consider options.
  
• Threats: “Your house is at risk.” This phrase is intentionally vague, designed to create anxiety without providing any real information.
  
• Finality: “You’ll lose everything if you don’t sell today.” Scammers know that when people feel cornered, they’re more likely to comply.
  

The danger with these messages is that they take away your ability to make an informed evaluation. You might think you have no choice but to sign paperwork, agree to terms you don’t understand, or sell for far less than your home is worth.

It’s important to recognize that these tactics are not about helping you solve a problem—they are about creating fear to benefit someone else.

How to avoid being scammed

Homeowners can protect themselves by slowing down and asking the right questions. Here are some practical steps:

1. Verify all official notices. The City of Chattanooga does not hire private companies to warn residents about code violations. If you receive a flyer or letter, call the city before doing anything else.
   
2. Pause before acting. Scammers count on you reacting quickly. If someone demands immediate action, that’s a red flag. A legitimate buyer or service provider will allow you to take the time you need.
   
3. Read the fine print carefully. Contracts may include hidden fees or terms that don’t favor you. If the paperwork is confusing or rushed, take it to a trusted advisor before signing.
   
4. Don’t overshare information. A real buyer doesn’t need your bank account number or social security number just to make an offer. Be careful about what you share until you trust the company.
   
5. Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s the tone of a conversation, the urgency in a letter, or the behavior of a representative—step back and investigate further.
   

By treating every unsolicited offer with caution and giving yourself time to evaluate, you can reduce your chances of falling victim to a scam.

How to vet a company before you sell

Even if a company seems legitimate, you should always do your research before moving forward. Here’s a practical guide for vetting any cash home buyer or real estate service in Chattanooga:

• Check their local presence. Do they have an office in Chattanooga? A local phone number? Knowledge of Chattanooga neighborhoods? If not, they may not have a real investment in your community.
  
• Look at their track record. A trustworthy company will proudly share past experiences and real homeowner stories. For example, our Success Stories show how Chattanooga Property Solutions has helped families in probate, foreclosure, and inherited property situations.
  
• Read reviews from multiple sources. Look on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau in addition to the company’s own reviews page. A pattern of positive experiences is a strong sign of credibility.
  
• Ask how they calculate offers. Transparency is key. If a company can’t explain how they arrived at a number, be cautious. A clear process should reference comparable sales, repair costs, and local market data.
  
• Look into who’s behind the company. A reputable business isn’t just a brand—it’s people. You can learn more about our mission and values on our About Us page.
  

By taking these steps, you can quickly separate legitimate companies from those that rely on pressure tactics.

Who we are: more than cash home buyers

At Chattanooga Property Solutions, our vision goes beyond simply buying homes. We see ourselves as problem-solvers for homeowners facing challenging circumstances.

Yes, sometimes the right answer is to sell my house fast in Chattanooga or sell my house as-is in Chattanooga TN, and we provide a fair process when that’s the best fit. But other times, the right solution might be waiting, repairing, or exploring different options altogether. We don’t believe in pushing one outcome—we believe in helping you understand every choice available.

Our team’s role is to provide guidance, resources, and support for people who may feel overwhelmed. We don’t just look at the property—we look at the person behind it. That’s why so many of our clients say the process felt respectful, clear, and empowering rather than pressured.

You can learn more about how our Guaranteed Cash Offer works, but remember: it’s just one option among many, and you’re never obligated to take it.

Real stories, real peace of mind

We’ve worked with families across Chattanooga in situations that felt impossible:

• Inherited homes. Many families don’t know what to do with properties passed down to them, especially when multiple heirs are involved. We’ve helped navigate these situations respectfully.
  
• Major repairs. Some houses need significant work, and homeowners don’t want to sink thousands into updates. In those cases, selling as-is can be the best solution.
  
• Financial strain. Job loss, foreclosure threats, or medical bills can create stress. We help homeowners understand their options and take control of their situation.
  
• Relocation. Whether for work, family, or lifestyle, sometimes a fast, smooth sale is necessary. We’ve guided people through this transition without added stress.
  

In each story, the outcome was about more than selling a house—it was about helping people move forward with peace of mind.

For more examples, see our Success Stories and What People Are Saying About Us.

Bottom line: You deserve partners, not pressure

Scare tactics, scams, and misleading flyers have no place in Chattanooga. Homeowners deserve to make informed decisions without fear or manipulation.

At Chattanooga Property Solutions, we believe in providing real solutions through respect, transparency, and empathy. Whether you’re exploring how to sell my house fast Chattanooga, considering whether to sell as-is, or just trying to understand your options, we’re here to help you navigate the process safely and confidently.Reach out today to start a conversation. No pressure, no scare tactics—just clear answers and support for whatever path you decide is right.