A: There are a number of scams out there that homeowners must be wary of, or you can indeed lose your house even if you owe only a relatively small amount of money. In one scam, the “lender” agrees to pay your back maintenance and current monthly mortgage and fees for a certain time-period if you write the monthly check to them by a specific date each month. Miss that date even by a minute, and they take the title to your house that they are holding as collateral for the loan. If you are indeed behind on your monthly maintenance payments, try to work out a plan with your association or contact only a reputable lender.
Gary Landau is a Coral Springs-based real estate and probate attorney. He can be reached at 954-979-6566 or Garysline@aol.com. If you need advice for your particular situation, contact your attorney.