Foreclosure scams are difficult to detect because the cases are usually dismissed for failure to participate, leaving no sign of the defrauded homeowner, says Limprecht Many owners never realize they've been had. But when a victim complains to the scam artist, if he can be found, after a foreclosure occurs, he's told his problems were just too serious to work outScams like these are most likely to flourish in judicial districts flooded with bankruptcy filings. But it just takes a little common sense to avoid them. Simply beware of ads or flyers which promise to make your difficulties disappear.
"Attention Home Owner. Save Your Home - Stop Foreclosure Novi" and "Well help you keep your piece of America" are typical of the come-ons, some of which may play up their ethnic or religious connections; with names such as "Chris, tians Helping Homeowners."
And remember. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably. is.
Ile proper way to avoid foreclosure is to contact your lender at the first sign of trouble.
"People who have reached a desperate state often become easy prey for financial predators," says Lynne Strang of the American Financial Services Association.
AFSA also suggests that if you need outside help, seek it from a respected housing counseling agency listed with the Department of Hous. ing and Urban Developments housmg-counseling clearinghouse.
You can call them at (800) 569-4287 or visit their Web site at http://,www.hudhcc.org.
And finally, if you think you've been scammed or have been ap- proached by a crook, contact the U.S. trustee or U.S. attorney in your area or the local HUD Inspector General's Office.
Low sichetman is a nationally syndicated
communist based in Washington. -