This first appeared on May 27, 2008. Unfortunately even today, there are people looking to scam those who can least afford it. If you’re facing foreclosure or know someone who is, this is an important read.
Predators in our Midst: A Warning for Homeowners Facing Foreclosure
I know that attorneys and other professionals may send written solicitations to homeowners who are facing the possibility of foreclosure. However, I have heard that there are unscrupulous individuals who may be posing as attorneys or are providing bankruptcy “assistance” when in fact, they are not qualified to do so.
If you are facing foreclosure and are contacted by ANYONE who claims to be an attorney, point your browser over the Board of Bar Overseers and look up that person up. There, you will find out whether they are licensed to practice law in Massachusetts, whether they are insured, and whether there is any history of discipline against them. If the person claims to be an attorney and they are not listed there, stay away from them.
These predators obtain a homeowner’s name and address by scouring the Land Court records and the auction notices in local papers. This information is available to anyone who goes to the court, or who perhaps subscribes to this information through a vendor (such as Banker & Tradesman). Through clients, I have learned that homeowners can be contacted by attorneys, real estate brokers and salespersons, mortgage brokers, as well as “investors” or others who may not have their best interests in mind.
Clients have been known to bring in bundles of mailings they have received. But the unscrupulous ones may not send out mailings. They may call, or show up at the door. They may claim that they go to same church, or once lived in the same neighborhood. They will appear to be friendly and helpful. They are anything but.
The bankruptcy cases that are getting filed are sloppily prepared. In many cases, those filings are without a credit counseling certificate, which means the case will end up being dismissed. In many cases, the scoundrel has taken the last chunk of money these folks have all under the guise of “helping them.”
If you’re facing foreclosure, or know someone that is, be smart and be safe. Deal only with a licensed professional.
To look up a real estate professional’s license, click here.
To look up a mortgage broker’s license, click here.
Related posts:
- Predators in our Midst: A Warning for Homeowners Facing Foreclosure
- A Warning for Homeowners Facing Foreclosure
- Displaced Katrina Homeowners Not Getting Promised Mortgage Relief
- Homeowners Warned of Foreclosure Scams
- Mass AG Targeting Foreclosure ‘Rescuers’
Tags: Consumer Scams