Real Estate Fraud: When the Deal Was Built on Lies, L is for Lawyer Uncovers the Truth
Real estate deals are supposed to be rooted in transparency. But too often, buyers, sellers, agents, brokers, and title companies make false statements—or conceal critical facts—to manipulate the transaction and line their own pockets. That’s fraud. And we don’t tolerate it.
At L is for Lawyer – Lauren Campoli, we represent individuals and families who’ve been deceived in real estate transactions. We expose misconduct, hold the wrongdoers accountable, and work to unwind the damage caused by fraudulent deals.
What Is Real Estate Fraud?
Real estate fraud occurs when someone intentionally makes a false statement—or hides material information—with the purpose of inducing you to act (or not act) in a real estate transaction. It can happen in residential, commercial, or investment contexts, and the fraud is often committed by people in positions of trust or authority.
Fraud can be active (e.g., false claims, forged documents) or passive (e.g., concealment, nondisclosure). Either way, it’s unlawful—and actionable
Common Forms of Real Estate Fraud Include:
- Misrepresentation of material facts (e.g., false statements about property condition, zoning, title status, or earnest money)
- Failure to disclose known defects or contingencies
- Fraudulent inducement into contracts or closings
- Use of forged signatures or altered documents
- False claims of performance or funding
- Broker or agent collusion with the opposing party
- Title company misstatements or escrow fraud
- Dual agency concealment or breach of fiduciary duty
- Manipulation of earnest money deposits
- “Papering over” defaults to push a deal through
Fraud isn’t just about what was said—it’s also about what was hidden.
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How Do You Prove Real Estate Fraud?
1. A false statement of material fact
Or a failure to disclose a material fact that the defendant had a duty to disclose.
2. Knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard for the truth
The defendant knew (or should have known) the statement was false or misleading.
3. Intent to induce reliance
The false statement was made to get you to sign, act, or refrain from acting.
5. Damages
You suffered financial harm or loss as a result.
Clarity and Precision
A well-drafted contract must be clear and precise. This means using specific language to describe the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of each party involved. Ambiguities or vague terms can lead to disputes and legal challenges.
Terms and Conditions
The contract should detail all relevant terms and conditions, including payment amounts, deadlines, property descriptions, and any contingencies. It should also specify the consequences of failing to meet these terms.
Legal Requirements
Real estate contracts must comply with state and local laws. In Minnesota, this includes adhering to regulations related to property transactions, disclosure requirements, and contract formalities.
Parties Involved
The contract should clearly identify all parties involved in the transaction. This includes their legal names, roles, and contact information. Proper identification prevents confusion and ensures that all parties are bound by the agreement.
Signatures and Dates
To be enforceable, the contract must be signed by all parties and dated. Signatures indicate that the parties agree to the terms, while dates provide a timeline for when the agreement was made and when obligations are due.
Our Firm Knows the Playbook—and How to Stop It
Real estate fraud is often disguised behind “routine” explanations and polite professionalism. But at L is for Lawyer, we dig deeper. We examine the emails, the documents, the timelines, and the money trail. We uncover internal communications, subpoena key records, and follow the transaction until the truth comes out.
We’re not intimidated by big brokerages, title companies, or institutional players. And we don’t shy away from fraud hiding behind a veneer of legality. Whether your case involves misrepresentations, concealment, escrow abuse, or forged documents—we’ve seen it, we’ve litigated it, and we know what it takes to win.
Protect Your Property. Protect Your Rights.
If you’ve been defrauded in a real estate deal, don’t let the other side bury you in paperwork or gaslight you into silence. We’ll help you unravel the fraud, evaluate your remedies, and take swift, strategic action.
L is for Lawyer. Because fraud doesn’t belong in real estate—and you don’t have to fight it alone.
Ensures Compliance
Contracts must comply with legal standards and regulations. Drafting contracts with attention to legal requirements ensures that the agreement is valid and enforceable, reducing the risk of legal challenges.
