Scams Page — Homeowner Help Desk

Learn the warning signs and how to protect yourself.

Scammers try to trick homeowners into giving up money, or even their homes.

What This Page Covers

What's a Scam? ↘

what to do next ↘

where to get help ↘

Common types of scams ↘

What’s a Scam?

A scam is when someone pretends to help you but is really trying to steal your money or home.

Scams can happen to anyone — no matter how educated or street smart you are. The best way to protect yourself — and your loved ones and neighbors — is to learn what to look for.

Think you’re being scammed?

Call us now: (646)-786-0888 | Monday-Friday, 9 am to 5 pm

If you call after hours, leave a message. A real person will get back to you as soon as possible.

Or fill out this form for free help.

Common Scams We See

A scammer tricks you into signing papers that transfer the deed, or legal ownership, of your home without you knowing it. Sometimes, they even fake your signature or use false documents to take the property. Learn More.

Someone says they can stop foreclosure or lower your loan payments. They ask you to pay them instead of your bank, or tell you to stop paying your mortgage altogether.

Someone lists a home for rent, takes your money, but they don’t own the place.

Someone tells you to sign over your home now and promises you can buy it back later.

Someone tells you bankruptcy will automatically save your home without explaining the risks or connecting you to a trusted attorney.

Someone offers to fix your home, takes your money, and disappears — or does sloppy, unsafe work.

Someone tricks or pressures a family member who inherited a home with you into selling their share. Then that person now owns the home with you and may try to force you out or force your home’s sale.

Someone uses a website, letter, flyer, or phone call that looks official but is not real.

Someone offers a risky loan with high fees or confusing terms that could put your home at risk. The person may issue a loan from a third party or ask that you transfer your property to another company, sometimes called an LLC.

Someone uses false papers or a forged signature to make it look like you owe money or missed payments on a loan. You may also get unexpected mail with a fake check, money order, or other loan papers that make the scam look real.

What You Should Do

Don’t sign anything you don’t understand
Don’t pay anyone upfront for help
Get free housing counseling and legal help — funded by New York City and State government
Call us to get connected to help you can trust