Protect Yourself Here are some red flags of mortgage fraud: Your mortgage or real estate professional assures you he/she can help you buy a property way outside your means using an "investor," fake representations of your income, or fake representations about your sources of funds for closing. You are offered payment for your involvement as an "investor" or straw-buyer on a property you have no desire to own or maintain. You’re told that all of the house related expenses will be paid for you, including mortgage payments, any down payment, maintenance fees, taxes and insurance. They promise to rent out the home and you will not be responsible for any costs or expenses. You are asked to sign blank forms (DON’T DO THAT EVEN IF IT SEEMS LIKE AN INNOCENT MATTER OF CONVENIENCE). Your contract for purchase shows a much higher price than was negotiated with the seller. (THAT MONEY IS GOING SOMEWHERE AND PROBABLY NOT TO YOU). This could indicate a purposeful over- appraisal that would further deceive the lender. The settlement statement you are asked to sign shows that you are bringing money to the closing table that you know you are not. If your better judgment tells you not to do it, don’t do it. It is your loan. You are ultimately responsible. This information was provided by the state Office of Financial Regulation. If you feel that someone has tried to lure you into mortgage fraud contact the office at 407-245-0608. As cases of mortgage fraud continue to increase, it's highly advisable to hire a real estate attorney for any transaction you are making. Copyright 2007 by Internet Broadcasting Systems Buy guns and ammo while you still can. A race war is coming. Vince Foster http://tinyurl.com/37ws2w About his murder: http://tinyurl.com/ysj8o "I am particularly horrified by the use of propaganda and the manipulation of the truth and the revision of history." - Hillary .