Georgia Attorney General Sues Home Saver 911 for Deceiving Homeowners

News Summary

Georgia’s Attorney General has filed a lawsuit against Home Saver 911, accusing the company of misleading vulnerable homeowners into transferring home titles under false claims of providing financial assistance. A temporary restraining order has been issued to halt the company’s operations while several alarming testimonies from affected homeowners highlight the company’s deceptive practices. The lawsuit seeks to void the deeds transferred and impose penalties for unlawful actions, ensuring the protection of consumers in high-stakes transactions.

Atlanta, Georgia – Georgia’s Attorney General, Chris Carr, has filed a lawsuit against the real estate company Home Saver 911, alleging that the firm is deceiving vulnerable homeowners into signing over the titles to their homes under false pretenses, including claims of providing foreclosure assistance and personal loans. A Fulton County judge has issued a temporary restraining order that blocks the company from continuing its operations amidst these serious allegations.

The lawsuit presents a troubling picture of Home Saver 911’s business practices, describing them as “stealing title to the homes of Georgia consumers.” It is claimed that the company employs misleading advertisements that fail to clarify that signing loan documents would result in the transfer of home ownership. As a result, many who thought they were securing loans found themselves losing their homes instead.

Evidence included in the lawsuit highlights several clients’ stories where they signed over their home deeds, often under the misconception that they were obtaining financial assistance. For instance, Keni Frederick, a resident of Fairburn, Georgia, believed he was securing a $20,000 loan when he transferred the deed to his home to Home Saver 911. Another client, Loretta Elgren, also signed away her home title, expressing concern about being evicted.

Attorney General Carr notes that Home Saver 911 has targeted homeowners at risk of foreclosure, promising aid to help them maintain ownership but allegedly pursuing eviction after acquiring title. The lawsuit claims that 73 homeowners entered into contracts with Home Saver 911, with reports indicating that at least 12 individuals have already been evicted as part of these actions.

The business practices of Home Saver 911 have come under scrutiny for their aggressive marketing techniques, which reportedly include door-to-door sales, cold calling, and a strong social media presence. Critics argue these tactics prey on homeowners in distress, leading them to make decisions without fully understanding the implications.

According to the lawsuit, Home Saver 911 has initiated 26 legal actions against homeowners seeking dispossession, and many of those affected claim they were not properly informed about the agreements they were signing, particularly since no notary was present during the deed signings, a standard procedure for such transactions. The Attorney General’s office has highlighted concerns regarding the lack of transparency and adherence to legal protocols in the company’s dealings with homeowners.

The owner of Home Saver 911, however, disputes the allegations, arguing that clients were informed about the agreements and have denied any wrongdoing. In defense of the company, a recorded conversation has been presented as evidence to support the claim that customers were fully aware of the transactions.

In light of these ongoing issues, Carr’s lawsuit is seeking several remedies. It aims to void the deeds transferred to Home Saver 911, halt the company’s operations, impose civil penalties for any unlawful actions, and provide restitution to affected consumers. The U.S. Department of the Treasury has also warned consumers to exercise caution in situations involving signing over deeds to secure assistance from third parties.

Julia Duperrault from the Atlanta Legal Aid Society has emphasized the alarming trend of homeowners unknowingly transferring ownership of their properties. She noted that many victims of this alleged scheme did not fully understand the implications of their actions, underscoring the need for awareness and legal protections in such high-stakes transactions.

Founded in March 2023, Home Saver 911 experienced rapid growth and outreach, leading to significant repercussions for homeowners across metro Atlanta. As the case unfolds, the Attorney General’s office remains committed to protecting consumers and holding companies accountable for deceptive practices.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WSB TV: Georgia AG Says Company Offering Help to Homeowners is Stealing Homes
• AJC: Georgia AG Chris Carr Accuses Atlanta Company of Foreclosure Scam
• Wikipedia: Home Foreclosure
• Google Search: Home Saver 911
• WSB TV: Woman Charged Making False 911 Call Before Rapper Young Scooter’s Death
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Foreclosure