FORECLOSURE SCAMS TO AVOID

I would not like to call it human nature the propensity of certain people to prey on others when those others are in time of need or are volnarable.  However there are groups of people out there that will take advantage of your situation when you are facing foreclosure.

Three quick tips to avoid these scams are:

1. Never sign your deed over to anyone.

2. Never pay upfront fees to anyone.

3.  Always inform yourself about who you are dealing with.

The unfortunate circumstances that are faced by people in foreclosure are compounded by people praying upon them during their trying times and taking whatever money they have left and leave them high and dry.

Short Sales is another area where people are taken advantage of.  Realtors and Short Sale negotiators should be theorly interviewed asking them of their experiance and knowlege of short sales and the procedures they follow.

It is always a good idea to be informed when dealing with Realtors, investors, negotiators and attorneys.

It is always good if you can afford it to be represented by an attorney.  Many times in a short sale the bank pays for the realtor, short sale negotiator as well as the attorney.  Just remind them who they work for and who their loyalty is too.

The number one tip to avoid foreclosure scams is to be informed and knowlegeble of the process.

When in doubt ask questions, lots of questions and do not stop until you are satisfied that you have been educated as to the question and the area of inquiry.

Write your questions down when interviewing a Realtor or short sale negotiator, sometimes we forget in the excitement of being helped what questions to ask of them.  Do not be shy, ask hard hitting questions...  Like are you licensed to do this? How successful have you been in situations like yours?  What options can they afford you if so chose to engage them contractually?

It is your duty to be informed and to be honest with those who are trying to help you in your situation.  Now is not the time to hide information.  hiding information such as the fact that you moved out will not help you or the Realtor your working with.