Real Estate Appraiser Fraud

Defending Professionals in Florida Mortgage Fraud Cases • Real Estate Appraisal Fraud

After the fall in the real estate market, many significant mortgage fraud cases involved inflated appraisals of property that was bought and sold several times, always at a higher price. Appraisers have been accused of appraisal fraud and conspiracy in what is referred to as property "flipping".

Lenders and federal authorities look for real estate appraiser fraud as part of loan fraud investigations. The charges against real estate appraisers typically involve kickbacks, overcharges, and appraisers assisting with fraudulent purchases by straw buyers. The primary criminal charge is usually conspiracy to commit wire fraud or bank fraud.

At the Law Offices of Mark L. Horwitz, PA, in Orlando, Florida, our criminal defense team stands willing to represent real estate appraisers suspected of committing or conspiring with others to commit mortgage fraud throughout central Florida, statewide, and nationwide.

If you have been approached by state or federal investigators, or have been subpoenaed to appear at a grand jury investigation, contact our law office immediately. As industry insiders, real estate appraisers can face criminal penalties if found guilty of profiting from fraudulent transactions. Early representation is important in real estate appraisal fraud cases.

We represent all professionals against insider fraud allegations

Defense attorney Mark L. Horwitz is a criminal trial specialist board-certified by the Florida Bar and the National Board of Trial Advocacy. He has more than 30 years of criminal law experience.

Just because you are under investigation does not mean the allegations are correct. Many guilty buyers, when faced with criminal charges of fraud, will try to point the finger at others in the transaction, including the real estate appraiser. By blaming others, they hope to limit their own punishment.

False allegations are always possible and they need to be confronted quickly before suspicion falls on you, and your reputation in the community is damaged.

If you have been summoned to appear before a grand jury, do not take any action until you have spoken with a lawyer. Failing to answer a subpoena, destroying records, or lying under oath present a risk that you will be charged with not only real estate appraisal fraud, but also with obstruction of justice (a much easier charge to prove).

Talk with our defense team so you understand your rights, your obligations, and the actions you can take to protect yourself. We offer an aggressive defense that ensures that all actions legally and ethically possible are pursued to protect our clients liberty.

Contact the Law Offices of Mark L. Horwitz, PA at 407.401.7224 or call toll-free at 866.784.0023 to arrange a confidential consultation.