Real Estate Fraud

Real estate fraud is a significant crime involving dishonest tactics in property transactions. The main goal is to achieve a financial benefit by using false information. At Logue Law Group, we recognize the severity of these allegations and provide the expertise of our criminal attorneys to support you through the legal process.

Our team of DUI attorneys is prepared to manage a wide range of scenarios, including:

• Utilizing straw buyers to secure loans
• Committing identity theft to obtain mortgages
• Illegally transferring titles to inflate property values
• Selling or renting properties without legal ownership
• Offering investments backed by unrecorded deeds
• Engaging in predatory lending practices
• Using falsified income or wage documents for loan approval
• Acquiring loans with fraudulent information
• Executing foreclosure schemes

While investors, appraisers, and brokers are commonly involved in real estate fraud, homeowners can also face charges. If you are accused of real estate fraud, our legal team is here to assist you. A Wheeling criminal lawyer from our firm can provide the guidance you need.

What is Real Estate Fraud?

The prevalence of real estate fraud has grown, particularly since the housing market decline in the late 2000s. In response, the federal government has increased its efforts to investigate and prosecute these cases. Federal real estate fraud is defined as any misrepresentation made during a real estate transaction with the intent to defraud financial institutions or deceive individuals.

Here are several common types of real estate fraud schemes:

• Equity skimming: An investor convinces a homeowner to sign over the deed and then rents out the property without making mortgage payments.
• Mortgage fraud with stolen identities: Using stolen or fabricated identities to secure mortgages.
• Illegal property flipping: Purchasing a property and then artificially inflating its value through false appraisals before reselling it.
• Predatory lending practices: Imposing unfair or abusive loan terms on a borrower. A Wheeling DUI attorney can also handle related criminal charges.
• Straw buyer schemes: An individual’s credit and identity are used to get financing for a property, but possession is transferred to someone else after closing.

Scammers often target individuals who are facing foreclosure, using deceptive strategies to take advantage of their situation. Here are some frequent schemes to be aware of:

• Foreclosure prevention schemes: These organizations make false promises to prevent foreclosure, charging high fees without delivering any real help.
• Phony mortgage counseling: Homeowners are tricked into paying large fees for simple tasks they could perform for free.
• Rent-to-buy schemes: Homeowners are pressured into giving up their property’s title for a chance to stay as renters and buy the house back later. However, the repurchase terms are typically unaffordable, causing the homeowner to lose their property while the organization profits from their investment. A skilled Wheeling criminal lawyer can assess the legality of these contracts and defend your rights.

What Are the Penalties?

The penalties for being involved in real estate fraud can be severe, often including imprisonment. Federal prosecutors may also bring additional charges for wire and mail fraud, as many transactions use email or postal services. Furthermore, charges of money laundering or bank fraud can also be part of the case. Having an experienced criminal lawyer is essential.

How a Wheeling Real Estate Fraud Attorney Can Help

If you are facing charges for real estate fraud, having a skilled attorney on your side is critical. Our proficient Wheeling criminal lawyer will meticulously review your case, collect all pertinent information, and analyze the evidence against you. We will clearly explain your defense options and help you make the best decision for your circumstances, always aiming for the most favorable outcome.

Do not wait to seek legal help—the longer you hesitate, the more difficult it can be to build a strong defense. Our team includes experienced legal professionals, and a knowledgeable Wheeling DUI attorney can also assist with overlapping criminal matters. Contact us online or call 844.PITT.DUI to schedule a free initial consultation.

Take action today to protect your rights!