the wasserblawg

by Michael H. Wasserman You read that right, A 480 percent increase according to a May 2017 PSA from the FBI. Its Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Scammers are targeting wire transfers with alarming frequency. As state law mandates the use of wire transfers for most real estate transactions, it's vital that every buyer, seller and professional be vigilant to prevent fraud. Here's what to look for and what you can do to help protect your money - your deal. Check the Source: Wire transfer fraud typically starts with a "phishing" email that looks ok at first blush, but is a fake. Real-looking but fraudulent emails may contain: A slightly different email address. It could be just one character off. Or using a correct name but from a free account, like gmail, aol or yahoo. Legit-looking logos and email footers. Remember, logos can be downloaded from public websites from title companies and banks. A working phone number for confirmation. So, if/when you ca

--> by Michael H. Wasserman I’m so very happy to welcome attorney John Aylesworth to the practice. He joined us in February 2017 and our clients and colleagues have been reaping the benefits of his good counsel all spring and summer. John is hardly new to our practice; He has worked with us on individual cases for several years already. Now that he is with us full-time, we are able to help even more buyers and sellers move through the real estate process with sanity intact. John really hit the ground running this year, so you may have already met him. John brings a great balance of calm and strength, and has a broad depth of experience in residential and commercial transactions, and new condominium development. He brings a roster of his own clients, many of whom consider him an invaluable counselor and friend, another great sign for us. Like me, John strives to provide great service to our clients and brokers. He works hard to get contracts to the closing table, o