Q. Do I need to worry about foreclosure fraud?

A. Yes, with the large number of foreclosures taking place, there has been a large increase in the number of people trying to take advantage of you situation. There are many good people that will help you, but you need to know how to recognize the honest ones from the foreclosure fraudsters and scammers.

Q. What should I do if I am in foreclosure?

A. The purpose of this website is to provide information to distressed homeowners prevent from becoming a victim of foreclosure fraud, so what you should do if you are in foreclosure is not the primary topic we are covering here. Plus everyone’s situation is different so I cannot answer your questions without know all of the details. That said; it is a very prudent idea to consult with an attorney or real estate agent (that you select) about your options. Lenders are sometimes willing to help borrowers with some type of “workout” situation, provided the borrower lets them know early on that problems may be looming. Most lenders don’t want to take properties back and if there’s a way to work through things it will be found; if you address the situation early on. Don’t be fooled by foreclosure fraud perpetrators.

Q. How do I tell the honest foreclosure rescuers from the foreclosure fraud artists?

A. The first thing you should do is ask them for three references of other homeowners they have helped. This alone will send many of the foreclosure scammers running. Secondly, tell them that you will be having your attorney review everything they suggest to you or try to get you to sign.

Q. What should I do if I am certain that someone is trying to defraud me?

A. Seek help immediately from a competent source, such as an attorney, your state’s District Attorney, state or local government consumer protection agency (ask them who you should contact in your state), and whatever you do – Don’t Sign Anything until you have it reviewed by a professional.
Remember these general tips.

• If it sounds too good to be true—it probably is!
• Never sign a blank document or a document containing blanks. This leaves you vulnerable to fraud.
• Don't sign anything you don't understand.
• Always seek assistance from an attorney.

Q. Will you help me?

A. Well, that depends on what you need. For starters, have you contacted your lender or an attorney for advice? If not, then I can’t help you. You can post your question on our blog and ask the other readers for advice, there are a lot of knowledgeable and helpful people out there that will respond. My purpose with this site is to raise awareness and give you the tools and information you need so that you can find assistance.

Q. Do you give legal advice if I need to fight back against someone who has already committed fraud against me?

A. Heck No, in fact, make that a double Heck No. I do not offer legal advice and will not pretend to offer legal advice. You need to seek your own competent professionals depending on your situation and the state you are in.

Q. I’ve already lost my home to a foreclosure rescuer fraudster, now what do I do?

A. I am sorry to hear that. I have been a victim of fraudulent cash back schemes and appraisal fraud so I know it is difficult. Who you should contact depends on the type of scam that was perpetrated on you. As mentioned previously, you should start with your lender (if mortgage fraud is involved), your District Attorney for your state, your Department of Licensing (if a Real Estate agent or broker committed the fraud), and/or a local attorney. Every state is different and they have different Divisions that may handle different situations.

Q. Where can I get more information on foreclosure fraud?

A. Read my book, “Foreclosure Rescuers – Stealing Your American Dream”, sign up for my Foreclosure Fraud Alert Newsletter, and join in on the discussion on The Foreclosure Fraud Alert Blog.