Real Estate Fraud

Real estate fraud is a serious offense involving deceitful practices in property transactions to gain an unfair financial advantage through false claims. At Logue Law Group, we recognize the severity of these accusations and offer the expertise of our Philadelphia criminal attorneys to guide you through your legal journey.

Our team of Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer is prepared to handle a variety of situations, including:

• Using straw buyers
• Identity theft to secure loans
• Transferring titles to falsely inflate property value
• Selling or leasing properties without proper ownership rights
• Selling investments backed by unrecorded deeds
• Predatory lending practices
• Falsifying income or wage documents to obtain loans
• Acquiring loans using false information
• Foreclosure schemes

While real estate fraud usually involves professionals like investors, appraisers, and brokers, homeowners can also face charges in certain situations. If you have been accused of real estate fraud, our team is here to help.

What is Real Estate Fraud?

Real estate fraud has become increasingly common since the housing market crash in the late 2000s. Consequently, the federal government has ramped up investigations and prosecutions in these matters. Federal real estate fraud covers any deception in a real estate deal intended to defraud banks or mislead individuals. If you are facing these serious accusations, consulting a Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer is essential to understanding your rights.

Here are some common real estate fraud schemes:

• Equity skimming
• Mortgage fraud using stolen or fake identities
• Illegal property flipping
• Predatory lending practices
• Straw buyer schemes, where a person’s credit and identity are used to get financing, with property rights transferred to someone else after closing.

Scammers specifically target people facing foreclosure, using deceptive tactics to take advantage of their vulnerability. Here are some common schemes to watch out for:

Foreclosure prevention schemes: These groups falsely claim they can stop foreclosure, charging high fees without offering any real help.

Phony mortgage counseling: Homeowners are tricked into paying large fees for simple, free tasks they could easily do themselves.

Rent-to-buy scheme: Homeowners are pressured to give up their property’s title in exchange for the chance to keep living there, paying rent, and buying back the house later. In reality, the terms are often unaffordable, leading to the homeowner losing the property while the organization profits from the homeowner’s investment. A skilled Philadelphia federal attorney can help navigate these complex issues. 

What Will be the Penalty?

Penalties for participating in these fraud schemes can result in prison time. Federal prosecutors may pursue extra charges related to wire and mail fraud, since many transactions involve email or delivery services like FedEx. Additionally, charges of money laundering or bank fraud might also be included. 

Ways in Which a Philadelphia Real Estate Fraud Attorney Can Help 

If you are charged with real estate fraud, having an experienced attorney by your side is vital. Our skilled lawyer will evaluate your case, gathering all necessary details and reviewing the evidence. We will explain your defense options and guide you toward making the best decision for your situation, striving for the most favorable result.

Don’t wait to seek legal representation  – the longer you delay, the harder it becomes to defend your case successfully. Contact us  844.PITT.DUI  online to schedule a free initial consultation.

Take action today and protect your rights in Pennsylvania!