Real Estate Broker Fraud

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

Our Orlando, Florida criminal defense firm stands willing to represent real estate brokers, real estate agents and real estate companies suspected of committing or conspiring with others to commit mortgage fraud.

As industry insiders with a good understanding of the real estate market, mortgage approval practices and appraisal methods, real estate brokers and agents are in a unique position to participate in activities that could be construed as fraud. For example:

• If a real estate broker is motivated to make a sale, they may knowingly help gather false information for a loan application or advise a client to complete a loan application in a manner that is more likely to get approval
• A real estate agent may assist a client in obtaining a loan even though they know the client is a straw buyer and someone else is involved in the purchase of the property

On the other hand, investigators often wrongly attribute criminal intent to common industry practices, such as relying exclusively on a certain appraiser. This is common for a real estate broker who has a long-standing relationship with an appraiser and it need not be a sign of wrong-doing.

As a real estate broker or agent, you are particularly vulnerable to charges of conspiracy. As a professional, allegations of fraud or criminal conduct can result in a criminal investigation or charge even if the accusers are lying.

If you have been approached by bank auditors, or state or federal investigators, if you have been subpoenaed to appear before a grand jury, or if you have been charged with real estate broker fraud, contact the Orlando Law Offices of Mark L. Horwitz, PA.

Heading off an Indictment

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. While our firm prepares every case for the possibility of a trial, Mr. Horwitz and our defense team also work to ensure that it never gets that far.

To obtain a conviction for mortgage fraud, authorities must prove criminal intent. We understand the mortgage industry and can provide reasonable explanations for things that appear to investigators as red flags for real estate broker fraud, such as fees and commissions that are higher than usual.

Just because you are under investigation does not mean the allegations are correct. Do not take any action until you have spoken with a lawyer. Failing to answer a subpoena, destroying records, or lying under oath present the risk that you will be charged with not only the original crime, 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 will immediately begin to develop a defense strategy for your case. We offer an aggressive defense that ensures that all defense strategies that are 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.