Tips to Avoid Foreclosure Scams

Scam artists smell a quick buck when it comes to foreclosures, and they would love to take advantage of scared, frightened and unknowing homeowners out the little money they have left. Don't be taken advantage of! Read the following tips closely, and if you have any questions call the experienced attorneys at the Byrne Law Group for a FREE consultation at 813-413-6565 for more information.

Many unscrupulous companies and individuals are taking advantage of the desperate situation homeowners are facing. These companies promise they can help save homes, then take outrageous up-front fees from our homeowners facing foreclosure. The companies often keep the fees, take no additional action, and let the homes fall into foreclosure.

By the time the homeowners discover the fraud, it is TOO LATE.

The most important thing to know to protect yourself is this: if something seems to good to be true, IT IS!

Here are some tips:

1. Use Only Approved and Licensed Companies.
   When looking for foreclosure rescue or loan modification, ONLY work with someone approved by state or federal government agencies. For instance, if you are working with a foreclosure counselor, be sure they are approved by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. You can visit HUD's website to search for an agency by going to http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm or by calling 877-HUD-1515 (877-483-1515) for more information. If you are approached by foreclosure counselors by mail, phone, or in person, make sure the counseling agency is HUD-approved before you do business with them. If you are already in foreclosure, only a licensed attorney can represent you before a Court. Make sure you are working with an experienced and licensed attorney in your state.
   
   
2. Foreclosure Counseling Doesn't Cost an Arm and a Leg.
   Most elegit foreclosure counseling should be low-cost or even no-cost! If a foreclosure counselor tells you it will cost many hundreds or thousands of dollars, be very careful! Do not agree to work with anyone who requires a fee before conducting any services, or anyone who only accepts payment by cashier's check or wire transfer. Do not pay anyone any money at all until you know they are legit, and you know exactly what they will be doing for you, and how long it will take.
   
   
3. Guarantees are a Red Flag!
   There are no guarantees in lawsuits, foreclosures, loan modifications, or foreclosure counseling. No one can predict what will happen, and no legit professional will ever guarantee a result. Be very careful of anyone or any agency that guarantees you an outcome, or guarantees they can stop your foreclosure! There is no such thing as a sure thing! Working with legitimate and licensed professionals, such as the attorneys at the Byrne Law Group, can increase your chances of having a successful outcome, but no professional will ever make a promise of success! Be cautious of anyone who does and always get the details of your transaction in writing before paying any money.
   
   
4. Read What You're Signing Before You Sign It!
   Always read what you sign THOROUGHLY before you sign it! If you don't understand what it is you're signing, ask questions! No legit counselor or professional will ever pressure you to sign paperwork that you haven't had a chance to read thoroughly. And do not sign blank forms that the counselor will fill out later. ALWAYS talk to an attorney before signing anything that transfers title of your home to someone else! If you have any questions, be sure to ask questions and never be afraid to consult an attorney like the experienced team at the Byrne Law Group.
   
   
5. Again, If It Sounds Too Good to be True, IT IS!
   Trust your instincts! If something sounds too good to be true, you may be the target or victim of foreclosure fraud! Only work with experienced and licensed professionals. Ask questions, demand answers in writing, never sign anything you don't understand, never pay money upfront, and report suspicious behavior to your state and local law enforcement and consumer protection agencies. In Florida, if you believe you have been taken advantage of, call the Florida Attorney General's Fraud Hotline at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM or visit http://myfloridalegal.com/mortgagefraud to file a complaint online.