Foreclosure Rescue Scams

With the recent increase in foreclosures, scams through “foreclosure rescue companies” have also appeared on the scene. They claim that they will help you, but really they are intending to make a profit at your expense. If your property is in foreclosure, be cautious.

This is most likely the first time you have been in this situation. This is a time in which the homeowner is very vulnerable. Con artists love to take advantage of you in these uncharted waters.

There are a few points to be aware of when dealing with a “foreclosure rescue company.” Watch out for:

*Asking for mortgage payments to be paid directly to his/her company or bank account, rather than your lender.
Reality: They pocket the money, and you STILL lose your home.

*They claim “We’ll save your credit!” You pay them a fee and transfer your property deed or title to theirs to avoid foreclosure on your record.
Reality: The foreclosure will be reported against the borrowers on the note, not anyone else.

*They say they’ll give you money, if you just sign the house over to them so they cure the default.
Reality: There is nothing wrong with this, as long as the party taking over really does pay the loan current, but you are still ultimately responsible for the loan. BE CAREFUL!

*They say they’ll buy the property, lease it to you, and you’ll have the option to buy it back.

*They ask for money up front before providing any service.

*They instruct you not to contact your lender, lawyer, housing counselor, family, friends, or others.

*They require payment only in the form of cash, cashier’s check, or wire transfer(Moneygram).
Every encounter I have had with this particular point included the request that the money be sent somewhere in Africa, usually Nigeria. They make it seem safe and legitimate. They claim they are out of the country with a church group, and play the part of the devout religious person, ending their communications with “God Bless You.”

Take home message is, if you’re in foreclosure or about to go through foreclosure, DO NOT let yourself become trapped in a scam with a “foreclosure rescue company.” The best thing to do is to contact your lender and a REALTOR. Both can help you through this trying time. Keep your head up. You will get through this.

California School Recognition Program

Every year in California, schools are recognized for their academic achievement, and closing the “achievement gap” among groups. High quality education should be the right of every student in California. The school districts, county offices of education, and the California Department of Education are responsible for making sure that every student, regardless of race, religion, or social status, receive this right. Closing this “achievement gap” between groups has become a top priority for State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell. He believes that all students having access to quality education is important for a strong education system in a strong California.
The 2009 California School Recognition Program (CSRP) honors schools that have shown educational excellence for all students. Schools must meet various eligibility criteria based on No Child Left Behind (NCLB), Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), and Academic Performance Index (API) requirements. The criteria for selection of schools is based on turning in an application including the school’s signature practices that are directly related to the success of their students, a review of the application, and a site visit to confirm the submitted practices.
Applications are reviewed for completeness by teams of educators chosen by the CDE. Complete applications move forward as a state nominee. Each state nominee receives a site visit to confirm the submitted practices.
Selected schools are recognized at an awards ceremony where Jack O’Connell presents each school with a 2009 California Distinguished School plaque and flag. The event is funded by donations and corporate sponsors, such as the Disneyland Resort.
Schools recognized are leaders in academic achievement and leaders in helping all students succeed. Each school is personally called by Jack O’Connell. O’Connell states “Each principal I spoke to was excited and overjoyed at their recognition for this prestigious award. All of our Distinguished Schools awardees are incredible schools with dedicated teachers, hard-working principals, and successful students.”
The selected schools represent about 10.9 percent of California’s 2,400 middle and high schools. Of those schools, only 341 schools have met the criteria based on student achievement from 170 school districts in 46 counties.
The 2009 Distinguished Schools awards will be held Friday, May 29, 2009 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Among schools honored are Sacramento County schools: Elk Grove High School, Delta High School, CK McClatchy High School, John F. Kennedy High School, Bella Vista High School, Casa Roble Fundamental High School, Louis Pasteur Fundamental Middle School, and Westside Prepatory Charter Middle School.
For more information about the CSRP, including a list of schools eligible and sponsors, please visit www.cde.ca.gov/ta/sr/cs/.