Real Estate Fraud

The District Attorney’s Office handles any case where the house is located in Alameda County, or where you pay money to someone where the money changes hands in Alameda County. Not all cases are criminal cases. In some situations, your case may be a civil matter. By law, we are not allowed to help with civil matters, but will assist you in getting referrals to other agencies.

Resources & FAQs

WHAT IS REAL ESTATE FRAUD?

Real estate fraud is any illegal activity affecting a home. It can include:

  • Stealing your identity to purchase a house or apply for a home loan without your knowledge.
  • Forging your signature on a deed or other document.
  • Tricking you into paying money for services that do not help you or that you do not need.
 

HOW DO I FILE A COMPLAINT?

  • Drop by our office at Oakport Street
  • Call for a complaint form: (510) 383-8600
  • Download a complaint form online and follow the directions.

** Please note that due to the complexity of real estate fraud cases, we cannot take complaints over the phone.

SIMPLE TIPS TO AVOID REAL ESTATE FRAUD

  • Never do business with people who you’ve never met face-to-face.
  • Get a business card and keep it safe.
  • Avoid letting people into your house to do a real estate deal.
  • Do not go to coffee shops or restaurants to complete deals. Legitimate companies have real offices.
  • Avoid doing business with strangers you meet on the Internet or at coffee shops, stores, or church who tell you they have a “great business deal” for you.
  • Check the names of individuals and companies on the Internet to see if they have complaints against them — do your homework!
  • Do not give out your social security number and other personal identifying information until you have thoroughly checked on the individual or company you are doing business with. Check out the businesses and individuals you do business with. Five minutes of homework may save your house!
  • NEVER pay for real estate deals with cash. Pay with a check so that your payments can be traced if needed.
  • If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

YOUR RIGHTS AS A HOMEOWNER

  • California law gives you certain rights. Be sure to follow these simple laws that protect you from fraud.
  • You are never required to pay money for a loan modification up front. Be suspicious of anyone who asks you to pay money before they perform all of their services for you.
  • Read all documents before you sign them. Be suspicious of anyone who tells you to “just sign” the documents without reading them.
  • Ask for and keep safe a copy of everything you sign.

For more information, please download our brochure: