Real Estate Fraud

At Logue Law Group, our team of Butler PA criminal attorneys understands the gravity of real estate fraud cases and is here to assist you throughout your legal journey. Real estate fraud is a serious offense that involves deceptive practices in transactions, aimed at gaining financial advantage through false representations.

We are 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 typically involving investors, appraisers, and brokers, homeowners can also face charges in certain cases. If you find yourself accused of real estate fraud, our Butler PA DUI attorneys are ready to help you.

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, exploiting their vulnerability through deceptive tactics. It is crucial to be aware of common schemes, such as foreclosure prevention schemes, phony mortgage counseling, and rent-to-buy schemes.

In foreclosure prevention schemes, organizations falsely claim to prevent foreclosure but provide little to no assistance while charging exorbitant fees. 

Phony mortgage counseling deceives homeowners into paying hefty fees for tasks they could easily handle on their own.

Similarly, homeowners are coerced into surrendering their property’s title in rent-to-buy schemes, with promises of repurchasing the house later. Sadly, the terms are often unaffordable, resulting in homeowners losing their property while the organization profits.

What Will be the Penalty?

Engaging in such fraud schemes can have severe consequences, including imprisonment. Federal prosecutors may pursue charges related to wire and mail fraud, as these schemes often involve communication through email or FedEx. Money laundering or bank fraud charges may also apply.

Ways in Which a Butler Real Estate Fraud Attorney Can Help

In case of real estate fraud charges, it is crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced Butler Real Estate Fraud Attorney. Our skilled Butler PA criminal lawyer will assess your case, gather necessary information, and analyze the evidence. We will guide you through defense options and work towards the most favorable outcome.

Do not delay in seeking legal representation – the longer you wait, the more challenging it becomes to successfully defend your case. Schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Butler PA DUI lawyer online or call 844.PITT.DUI to protect your rights.

Take action today and safeguard your future!