Buying or refinancing your home may be one of the most important and complex financial decisions you'll ever make. Many lenders, appraisers, and real estate professionals stand ready to help you get a nice home and a great loan. However, you need to understand the home buying process to be a smart consumer. Every year, misinformed homebuyers, often first-time purchasers or seniors, become victims of predatory lending or loan fraud. Don't let this happen to you!

You have the right to be free from predatory lending practices.  The federal Truth in Lending Act (“TILA”) protects consumers from overcharges and other undisclosed “costs of credit”.  Other federal lending laws such as the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (“ECOA”), which protects against credit discrimination, and the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (“RESPA”), which prevents kickbacks and bait-and-switch lending, exist to help borrowers in the often complex area of loans and consumer lending.  Several state laws also provide protection for borrowers.

If you’re the victim of a bait and switch, in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, non-disclosure of material terms, overcharges and fees, or other predatory lending practices, we may be able to help.  CONTACT US to discuss the specific issues of your home purchase or refinance.

Read more:

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Know Before You Owe Initiative
National Consumer Protection Week
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau now online
Fraudsters are still at it...