Real Estate Fraud

Real estate fraud is a serious offense that involves deceptive practices in real estate transactions, aimed at gaining financial advantage through false representations. At Logue Law Group, we understand the gravity of such cases and offer the expertise of our Pittsburgh criminal attorneys to assist you throughout your legal journey.

Our team of Pittsburgh real estate fraud lawyers is equipped to handle various situations, including:

• Using straw buyers
• Identity theft for obtaining loans
• Title transfer to inflate property value
• Selling or leasing properties without ownership rights
• Selling investments secured by unrecorded deeds
• Predatory lending practices
• Falsified income or wage documentation for securing loans
• Acquiring loans with false information
• Foreclosure schemes

While real estate fraud typically involves investors, appraisers, and brokers, homeowners can also face charges in certain cases. If you find yourself accused of real estate fraud, our Pittsburgh DUI attorneys are here to help.

What is Real Estate Fraud?

Real estate fraud has become increasingly prevalent since the housing downturn in the late 2000s. As a result, the federal government has intensified its investigations and prosecutions in these cases. Federal real estate fraud encompasses any misrepresentation in a real estate transaction with the intent to defraud banks or deceive individuals.

Here are some common real estate fraud schemes:

• Equity skimming
• Mortgage fraud using stolen or fabricated identities
• Illegal property flipping
• Predatory lending practices
• Straw buyer schemes, wherein an individual’s credit and identity are used to obtain financing, with possession transferred to another individual after closing.

Scammers specifically target individuals facing foreclosure, employing deceptive tactics to exploit their vulnerability. Here are some common schemes to be aware of:

Foreclosure prevention schemes: These organizations falsely claim that they can prevent foreclosure, charging exorbitant fees without providing any substantial assistance.

Phony mortgage counseling: Homeowners are deceived into paying hefty fees for simple, free tasks that they could easily handle on their own.

Rent-to-buy scheme: Homeowners are coerced into surrendering their property’s title in exchange for the opportunity to continue living there, paying rent, and repurchasing the house later on. In reality, the terms are often unaffordable, resulting in the loss of the property for the homeowner while the organization profits from the investment made by the homeowner.

What Will be the Penalty?

Penalties for involvement in such fraud schemes can lead to imprisonment. Federal prosecutors may pursue additional charges related to wire and mail fraud, as many transactions involve communication through email or FedEx. Furthermore, charges of money laundering or bank fraud may also be included.

Ways in Which a Pittsburgh Real Estate Fraud Attorney Can Help

If you find yourself charged with real estate fraud, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney by your side. Our skilled Pittsburgh criminal lawyer will assess your case, gathering all necessary information and examining the evidence. We will explain your defense options and guide you towards making the best decision for your situation, working towards achieving the most favorable outcome.

Don’t delay seeking legal representation – the longer you wait, the more challenging it becomes to successfully defend your case. Contact us online or call 844.PITT.DUI to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Pittsburgh DUI lawyer in Pittsburgh.

Take action today and protect your rights!