Three weeks ago I met with Marcia and who was at her wit’s end. A few years back she found out her daughter and two grandchildren were in an abusive situation. Having a heart of gold, she offered to have them move in with her until the the situation was resolved.

It’s been difficult for her daughter to find solid, stable work in this tough economy so, once again, Marcia was there financially to support them. She had to take on a part time job herself to try and make ends meet. With the rising cost of food, gas, utilities and the cost of living — she was just going deeper and deeper in debt. It was spiraling out of control and Marcia was panicking.

Marcia, in desperation, decided to look into a reverse mortgage. The numbers showed that Marcia could pay off her current mortgage, obtain $5,000.00 to pay off some bills and have another $43,000.00 available in a line of credit for emergencies down the road.

Her concern was could she qualify? When she learned that she did not need good credit to qualify, it was the answer to her prayers.

She completed her counseling, went to application, the appraisal was performed and she closed her reverse mortgage in less than three weeks. Marcia was so relieved to have this behind her. She kept saying “you don’t know what a burden this is off my shoulder.” I can now focus on helping my daughter get her life established and get back to my retirement…”you just don’t know how relieved I am.”

I was so delighted to help Marcia get her finances and life back in order that it really made me feel happy too — that I was a part of getting this family back on track … priceless!

720.641.3482

Spring brings warmer temperatures, longer days, greener lawns and home repairs and improvements. It also brings increased complaints about home improvement fraud to the Consumer Protection Line. District Attorney Carol Chambers reminds consumers that some simple precautions can reduce the possibility that the repairs or improvements to your home will not lead to despair later.

TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM HOME IMPROVEMENT FRAUD:

1. Only do business with local and well established businesses. Never do business with someone who shows up uninvited on your doorstep.
2. Never allow anyone into your home that you do not know and trust. Report any suspicious visitors to your home to local law enforcement.
3. Never allow someone to pressure you into a hasty decision. If someone tells you there is a serious problem with your home, get a second or third opinion before proceeding with the repairs.
4. Before doing business with any company, check its record with the Better Business Bureau and if it is registered with the Secretary of State.
5. Get a written contract spelling out what work will be done, what materials will be used, what it will cost and when work will start and when it will be completed.
6. Verify that the contractor has workmen’s compensation and liability insurance before any work begins on your home. Have yourself listed as an additional insured on the contractor’s policy.

Need help? Have Questions? Call the Consumer Protection Line: 720.874.8547

For additional information about senior scams - scams targeting seniors.

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