Two recent scams have been brought to CAPECO’s attention, both of which are related to homeownership and occurred within a four-month span. These scams are particularly concerning as they target vulnerable populations. The scams involves a caller ID listing a mortgage company reaching out to homeowners and offering them a loan modification by lowering their monthly payments. With the loan modification, a barcode or QR code is provided and the homeowner is told to use that code at a service payor, like Walmart, and make the mortgage payment. The scammer checks every month with the household and provides a new code. Households are being told to take that code directly to Walmart, again to make the mortgage payment. Unfortunately, the households may not learn they are being scammed until their mortgage company reaches out to them via letter after the households are three to four months late on their original mortgage payment.
Here are some common mortgage scams that every homeowner should be aware of:

1. Bait-and-Switch: A potential borrower is baited with an enticing loan offer, like a competitive interest rate or low monthly payments. Shortly before it comes time to sign on the dotted line, the lender presents completely new—and much less favorable—home loan terms.
2. Equity Stripping or “Leaseback Scheme”: Scammers promise to rescue a homeowner from their unaffordable mortgage. Facing foreclosure, the homeowner agrees to sign the deed over to a “rescuer” in exchange for the ability to continue living in the home as a renter, while the new homeowner pays off the delinquent mortgage. Meanwhile, these rent payments go toward buying the property back, with interest.
3. Mortgage Relief Scams: Scammers target vulnerable homeowners who are in financial distress. They use a variety of methods, like equity skimming, loan modification, and rescue and relief schemes to take advantage of them. These tactics offer to pay the mortgage or save the home of a homeowner in financial distress.
4. Phony Mortgage Relief Programs: Scammers pose as mortgage relief providers and offer to help homeowners modify their loans or save their homes from foreclosure. They often ask for upfront fees and personal information, which they use to steal the homeowner’s identity.

To protect yourself from mortgage scams, it's important to do your research and be cautious when dealing with lenders or other individuals who offer to help you with your mortgage. Always verify that the lender or company you're working with is legitimate, and never provide personal or financial information unless you're sure it's safe to do so. If you think you may have been the victim of a mortgage scam, contact your local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission immediately.

Check out these websites that provide warning signs, tips, common loan modification scams, as well as information on how submit a complaint or report fraud:

• FDIC.gov
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
• FTC.gov
• AARP.org
  

CAPECO offers a variety of services and programs to help individuals and families with housing issues.  Click below to find out more.

Keeping cool in a non-air conditioned apartment during the summer can be challenging, especially on those sweltering hot days. However, there are several ways to stay comfortable and cool without the luxury of an AC unit. Below are five tips to help you stay cool during summer days and nights.

1. Use Fans: Fans are an inexpensive and effective way to keep cool in a non-air conditioned apartment. Ceiling fans can keep the air circulating, while stand-up or table fans can provide a more direct and stronger airflow. Placing a bowl of ice in front of a standing fan can enhance the cooling effects.
2. Utilize Window Treatments: Efficient window treatments can be very useful in keeping the heat from entering your apartment. Closing curtains, blinds, and shades during the day will block sunlight and prevent heat from getting into your living space. Invest in light-colored window treatments as they reflect sunlight and prevent heat absorption.
3. Avoid Heat Sources: During the hottest times of the day, avoid using heat sources such as the oven, stove, or dryer. Cooking on a grill or eating cold meals such as salads or sandwiches can save you from heat sources and their residual heat.
4. Use Cooler Colors and Materials: Using lighter colors in interior decor is a good idea because darker colors attract heat. Wearing and using lightweight, airy materials are also very effective in keeping cool during summer days and nights.
5. Stay Hydrated and Cool: It’s imperative to stay hydrated during the summer months. Drink plenty of water, if you need to cool down quickly, you can place cold, wet towels on your wrists, neck, or forehead. If you can, take a cool shower or dip your feet in cold water. All of these act as a great coolant and help you stay refreshed.

Keeping cool in a non-air conditioned apartment during the summer requires creativity and resourcefulness. Utilizing window treatments, investing in fans, avoiding heat sources, utilizing cooler colors and materials and staying hydrated are just some ways to combat high temperatures. These simple solutions can make your home a haven of relaxation and comfort.

Use the comments below to share with us how you are keeping cool without AC this summer.

Preparing for a fire emergency in your apartment building can be crucial when it comes to protecting yourself and your loved ones. Here are some steps you can take to be prepared:

1. Develop a fire escape plan: It's important to have a plan in place on how to escape your apartment in case of a fire emergency. Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan and practice it regularly.
   
2. Know your building's evacuation plan: Every building has an evacuation plan in case of a fire emergency, so make sure you know the details of your building's plan.
   
3. Be aware of fire hazards: Be mindful of what can cause fires in your apartment, such as cooking, smoking, candles, or electrical wiring. Make sure to take the necessary precautions to prevent fires, such as not leaving cooking unattended and avoiding smoking indoors.
   
4. Check your smoke detectors: Make sure your apartment has working smoke detectors and test them regularly to ensure they're functioning properly.
   
5. Keep a fire extinguisher: Having a fire extinguisher in your apartment can help you put out small fires before they spread. Make sure to know how to use it before an emergency occurs.
   

By taking these steps, you can help prepare yourself and your household for a fire emergency in your apartment building.

Chris Baskin writes to help others live more simply explaining ways for renters to stay cool and save money this summer.  In an article from October 2022, when he wrote for Treehugger.com, he wrote about ways to stay cool and save money during the summer.
Follow the link below to learn more.

Prevent foodborne illness during emergencies and disasters.

Check out these Resource Materials from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service.