According to the WFTV article:

Jeff said this type of scheme, known as an overpayment scam, is pervasive in the industry. “The scam targets contractors,” he explained, “And sometimes inadvertently affects homeowners in the process.” In an overpayment scheme, a scammer will seek out homes listed for sale on sites like Zillow or Redfin. Typically, they’ll target vacant homes.

The scammer will pretend to be the home’s owner, and ask local contractors to provide an estimate for some exterior work like a roof, driveway or painting.

The scammer and the contractor will agree to a price, and the scammer will mail or otherwise provide a check for more than the agreed upon price.

“Instead of being $20,000, there’ll be $22,000,” Jeff said. “Then, they’ll get a call from the supposed homeowner saying ‘Oh my gosh, there was a mistake.’”

The scammer will ask that the extra money be refunded. Shortly after the contractor sends the cash and occasionally after work begins, the scammer’s original check will bounce from the contractor’s bank account.