subject: How to Avoid Being Scammed with Foreclosure [print this page] 4. List and Sell- In this desperate housing market, some real estate agents have gotten greedy and chosen to scam the homeowners they are supposed to help. In a "list and sell", the agent promises to a homeowner who has defaulted on their home loan that they sell their home before the foreclosure goes through(usually within 60 days) or the agent will purchase the property. The agent will then list the home at an inflated value in MLS and when the house doesn't sell, the agent offers to buy the house at significantly lower price than then the value of the house. Be sure that you investigate the companies and people you choose to work with when you are dealing with your home. Scammers are just around the corner waiting to take advantage of your misfortune. Read the fine print! Do your due diligence to acquire as much information as you can about those who you choose to do business. If you think you are victim of fraud surrounding your home, there are some organizations that are designed to help you in your time of need. ACORN or the Association of Community Organization for Reform Now, the Consumers Union or HUD(US Housing Office of Urban Development). Think are in danger of losing your home to foreclosure? Do not ignore the problem, remain proactive and contract your lender as soon as you think that there may be a problem with your loan. Stay in contact with your bank and read up on the laws in your state on foreclosure and remain proctive by continuing to negotiate with your bank
