Some may think that all the mortgage fraud concerns have been washed up and are gone away, but there are residual and new efforts by scammers present in the market.
This column has provided suggestions or areas to watch for in the past to help prevent becoming a victim of mortgage fraud. Perhaps a refresher will be helpful. In a recent meeting of local real estate professionals, the following list was given as a reminder and tutor of things to watch for in the business; they may be useful to consumers and readers of this column along with practitioners.

DON'T provide false information about your employment, credit score, income, or whether you will occupy the home.
DON'T use a false identity to get a loan for yourself or let someone use your identity (name, social security number or credit score) to get a loan for them.
DON'T borrow more money in mortgage loans than you can afford to pay.
DON'T sign blank incomplete documents or documents you do not understand.
DON'T expect to get "paid" for buying a home.
DON'T conspire to sell your home at an artificially inflated value.
DO be cautious about promises of "high rates of return" in real estate "investing."
DO read and keep copies of all documents you sign.
DO ask questions and make sure you understand everything you sign.
DO work with professionals who are licensed in good standing with the State.

State and Federal regulators have made a strong stand and taken measures to clean up unfortunate and illegal criminal activity. Unfortunately, there are people still looking for the quick fix, or the big bucks, or something for nothings. People who may not be well informed often fall prey to those shysters who know how to take advantage over others. Hopefully, the list above will be of help as one is vigilant and to safe-guard themselves against harmful business practices.

St. George REALTOR® Jim Coleman is Associate Broker and Partner/Owner of ERA Brokers Consolidated. He Specializes in Residential, Investment and Commercial Real Estate, holding National Designations of Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Resort and Second Home Property Specialist (RSPS), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS), GREEN Property Specialist, and Certified Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource Specialist (SFR). You can contact him by e-mail at Jim@JimColeman4Homes.com. Call: (435) 627-5411; or write: Jim Coleman, 201 East St. George Boulevard, St. George, Utah 84770. This and other columns are available at www.WinningTalk.com/articles.