This week I had someone call me to say, “We’re calling to updated your warranty information. I’m pulling up your record and all be right back.” Yes, this was a live person! Before I could say hello, they put me on hold. Once it dawned on me that they did not even say what kind of warranty that needed updating, I just hung up the phone. But then I got upset! Another scammer trying to use an unsecure world to fill their pockets and further harm my family.
Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME for short) sent out a great little email this week reminding us of the dangers of scammers trying to hurt families that are already facing foreclosure. Here’s a copy of the email with appropriate links. If you feel that someone has contacted you illegally, please contact HOME. And beware of scammers!
Dear Jennifer,
During the General Assembly session, we sent you weekly updates about legislative actions affecting you and other Virginians. You will continue to get regular HOME email updates on news of note and ways you can participate in HOME’s mission…just not so often!
We want you to share with everyone you know that new and more devious foreclosure scams are growing in this tight economy. Help Is Free! Foreclosure Rescue Scammers are finding all kinds of ways to make a buck off of those that are at the brink of losing their home due to job loss or other circumstance.
- There is never a fee to get assistance or information about Making Home Affordable from your lender or a HUD-approved housing counselor (like HOME).
- Beware of any person or organization that asks you to pay a fee in exchange for housing counseling services or modification of a delinquent loan. Do not pay – walk away!
- Beware of anyone who says they can “save” your home if you sign or transfer over the deed to your house. Do not sign over the deed to your property to any organization or individual unless you are working directly with your mortgage company to forgive your debt.
- Never submit your mortgage payments to anyone other than your mortgage company without their approval
This year the Virginia General Assembly did pass a bill that clarified that it is ILLEGAL to charge a fee before completing services to help prevent or avoid foreclosure. If the Governor signs the bill into law, it will go into effect on July 1, 2009. However, this will not stop scammers from taking advantage of people. You must protect yourself. There are many websites out there that appear to be official government assistance sites, but instead they are scammers just waiting to prey on your money and your home. Please use HOME’s website (www.phonehome.org) as a resource. Click on the President’s “Making Home Affordable Initiative” on our homepage for more information and tips.
Thanks for helping to protect your friends, neighbors, and family members as you continue to support HOME’s mission. Please donate online now.
Best,
Myra
Myra Howard
Vice President of External Affairs
Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia, Inc.(HOME)
700 E. Franklin St. Suite 3A Richmond, VA 23219
804-354-0641 x155
“Ensuring Equal Access to Housing for All People”
