Real Estate Fraud

Understanding Real Estate Fraud

Real estate fraud is a severe crime involving deceptive actions in property transactions to gain financial benefits by misrepresenting facts. At Logue Law Group, we recognize the seriousness of these cases and provide the expertise of our Kittanning criminal attorneys to guide you through your legal process.

Common Types of Real Estate Fraud

Our team of Kittanning criminal lawyers is skilled in addressing various scenarios, including:

• Using Straw Buyers
• Identity Theft in Loan Acquisition
• Title Transfer for Artificial Value Inflation
• Selling or Leasing Without Ownership Rights
• Investments Secured by Unrecorded Deeds
• Predatory Lending Practices
• Falsified Income or Wage Documentation for Loans
• Securing Loans with False Information
• Foreclosure Schemes

While real estate fraud often involves investors, appraisers, and brokers, homeowners can also be accused in specific situations. If you’re facing real estate fraud accusations, our Kittanning DUI attorneys are ready to assist you.

What Constitutes Real Estate Fraud?

Since the housing market decline in the late 2000s, real estate fraud has become more prevalent. Consequently, federal authorities have increased their investigation and prosecution efforts. Federal real estate fraud involves any misrepresentation in a real estate deal with the intent to deceive banks or individuals.

Common Real Estate Fraud Schemes

• Equity Skimming
• Mortgage Fraud Using Stolen or Fabricated Identities
• Illegal Property Flipping
• Predatory Lending Practices
• Straw Buyer Schemes—where an individual’s credit and identity are used to obtain financing, and possession is transferred to another entity post-closing.

Fraudsters often target individuals facing foreclosure, using deceitful tactics to exploit their vulnerability. Some common schemes include:

Foreclosure Prevention Schemes

These organizations falsely promise to prevent foreclosure, charging high fees without delivering meaningful help.

Phony Mortgage Counseling

Homeowners are misled into paying large sums for simple, free services they could handle independently.

Rent-to-Buy Schemes

Homeowners are pressured into surrendering their property’s title for the chance to continue living there, paying rent, and repurchasing the house later. Often, the terms are unaffordable, leading to the loss of the property while the organization profits from the homeowner’s investment.

What Could Be the Penalty?

Involvement in such fraudulent schemes can lead to imprisonment. Federal prosecutors may add charges related to wire and mail fraud, as many transactions involve email or FedEx communications. Additionally, charges of money laundering and bank fraud may be pursued.

How a Kittanning Real Estate Fraud attorney Can Assist You

Facing real estate fraud charges requires the support of an experienced Kittanning criminal attorney. Our seasoned Kittanning DUI lawyer will evaluate your case, collect all necessary information, and examine the evidence. We will explain your defense options and help you make the best decision for your situation, aiming for the most favorable outcome.

Don’t wait to seek legal representation—the longer you delay, the harder it becomes to defend your case effectively. Contact us online or call 844.PITT.DUI to schedule a free initial consultation with a knowledgeable Kittanning criminal lawyer in Kittanning.

Protect your rights and take action today!