Nassau County, NY - September 12, 2014 - Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano and Nassau County Police Commissioner Thomas C. Krumpter would like to make the public aware of the increase of Mortgage Scams being perpetrated on homeowners who are looking for loan modifications. The public should take the following steps when inquiring about all financial transactions involving any loan or mortgage modification for their home:
- Do not sign over the deed to your property to any individual unless you are working directly with your mortgage company.
- You can apply to the federal Making Home Affordable (MHA) program on your own or with free help from a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Contact HOPE hotline at 1-888-995-HOPE (4673) --To find a HUD-approved housing counseling agency near you access HUD’s database for Foreclosure Avoidance Counseling.
- Any company claiming to be affiliated with HAMP or displays a logo representing the U.S. Government can be verified by contacting the HOPE hotline 1-888-995-4673.
- Beware of anyone seeking to charge you in advance for mortgage modification services. In most cases, charging fees in advance of for this service is illegal.
- Paying a third party to assist you with your application does NOT improve the likelihood of receiving a mortgage modification.
- To verify any mortgage company or broker you can use this website or DFS.NY.GOV
Pictured: Rosaura Hernandez and Tania Ayala, both arrested for mortgage scams.
