Real Estate Fraud

Real estate fraud is a serious crime involving dishonest practices in property transactions, intended to secure financial gains through fraudulent representations. At Logue Law Group, we recognize the complexity of such cases and are dedicated to providing our clients with the expertise of our Erie criminal lawyers who will guide and support you throughout your legal proceedings.

How Our Erie Real Estate Fraud Attorneys Can Help

The legal team at Logue Law Group specializes in handling a wide range of real estate fraud cases, which may include but are not limited to the following schemes and practices:

• Exploiting straw buyers
• Using identity theft to obtain loans
• Illegally transferring property titles to inflate property values
• Selling properties or entering lease agreements without rightful ownership
• Selling investments backed by unrecorded deeds
• Engaging in predatory lending tactics
• Submitting falsified income or wage documentation to secure loans
• Obtaining loans using fraudulent information
• Running foreclosure scams

Although real estate fraud is commonly associated with investors, brokers, and appraisers, homeowners in Erie County may also face charges in specific cases. If you have been accused of involvement in real estate fraud, connecting with an experienced Erie DUI attorney from Logue Law Group can make a significant difference in your defense.

What is Real Estate Fraud?

The occurrence of real estate fraud has risen significantly, especially following the housing market downturn of the late 2000s. Due to this, federal authorities have strengthened their efforts to investigate and prosecute these cases. Federal real estate fraud encompasses any misrepresentation made during a real estate transaction with the intent to deceive individuals or defraud banking institutions.

Examples of Real Estate Fraud Schemes

Some common types of real estate fraud include the following schemes:

• Equity Skimming – Stripping property of its value while defaulting on mortgages.
• Mortgage Fraud – Using stolen or fake identities to secure loans.
• Illegal Property Flipping – Manipulating property values for improper resale profits.
• Predatory Lending Practices – Exploiting borrowers through unfair loan terms.
• Straw Buyer Tactics – Using another person’s credit and identity to fraudulently close property deals before transferring ownership post-closure.

Individuals in Erie County facing foreclosure are often targets of scammers employing deceptive tactics to exploit their vulnerable financial situations. Here are some schemes that these homeowners should watch out for:

Foreclosure Prevention Scams

Organizations falsely claim they can prevent foreclosure and charge exorbitant fees for minimal or no actual assistance.

Phony Mortgage Counseling

Scammers charge homeowners high fees for services they could easily access for free or complete themselves, such as filling out basic forms.

Rent-to-Buy Scams

Homeowners are persuaded to sign over property titles in return for promises to rent and eventually re-purchase their homes. Unfortunately, the terms are often unreasonable, leading to the homeowner losing the property while the scammers profit.

Penalties for Real Estate Fraud

Being involved in real estate fraud can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment. Federal prosecutors often take additional legal actions, such as filing charges for wire fraud or mail fraud, given the use of email or courier services in many transactions. Charges of money laundering or bank fraud may also be pursued.

Why You Need an Erie Real Estate Fraud Attorney

If you are facing real estate fraud charges, having an experienced attorney is crucial for your defense. At Logue Law Group, our skilled Erie DUI attorneys will thoroughly assess the details of your case, review all evidence, and explain every available defense option to you. Our goal is to guide you toward making informed decisions to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

By partnering with an Erie criminal attorney from Logue Law Group, you gain access to a legal advocate who will work tirelessly to secure justice on your behalf. Delaying legal assistance can make building a successful defense more challenging, so it’s essential to seek representation as soon as possible.

Contact Logue Law Group Today

Don’t wait to take action. Safeguard your rights and future by contacting Logue Law Group today. Call us at 844.PITT.DUI or reach out online to schedule your free initial consultation with an experienced Erie criminal lawyer in Erie County.

Take the first step towards protecting yourself and ensuring you have strong legal support by your side.