Property fraud solicitors

Fraudsters often entice victims to invest in property development projects or real estate opportunities that promise high returns. However, these schemes are rarely genuine, and the promised returns never materialise. In many cases, the property may not even exist, leaving investors with nothing to show for their money.

How these schemes work:

• Fraudsters use convincing presentations, fake documents, and professional-looking websites to gain trust.
• An agent may be involved, charging victims fees to participate in the scheme while shielding the fraudster from direct accountability.
• Once the fraudster has secured the funds, they often dissolve their companies or vanish, making it challenging for victims to recover their money.

Property investment fraud case example  

Anthony Gold Solicitors have successfully handled complex property investment fraud cases. In one such case, Clifford Tibber, a partner in our dispute resolution team, represented over 100 investors who were defrauded in a property scheme. 

By bringing the victims together, we shared legal costs and maximised the recovery of their losses. In this case, we pursued the solicitor who acted negligently in representing both the investors and the fraudulent agent. 

Our expertise enabled us to secure a settlement with the solicitor’s insurers without issuing court proceedings. 

This type of fraud occurs when a criminal poses as the legitimate property owner to sell or mortgage a property without the owner’s knowledge. This can result in catastrophic outcomes for both buyers and property owners: 

• For buyers: They risk losing their money when the fraud is discovered, often too late, by the Land Registry. 

• For owners: They face the potential loss of their property, especially if the fraud goes undetected until after the sale or mortgage. 

How identity fraud happens: 

• Fraudsters obtain personal details of the property owner (e.g., through stolen identity documents or phishing scams). 

• They use these details to impersonate the owner and initiate a property transaction. 

• Fraudulent transactions often target unoccupied properties or those without a mortgage, as they are easier to transfer without scrutiny. 

Fraudulent property transactions – Identity fraud case example 

Beth Holden, a partner at Anthony Gold Solicitors, acted in the widely publicised case of Purrunsing v A’Court (a firm) and another [2016] EWHC 789 (Ch). Here, a property buyer lost their funds when a fraudster posing as the seller disappeared abroad. Beth successfully recovered the buyer’s money from the legal professionals involved, holding them accountable for failing to detect the fraud. 

Additionally, Beth has successfully taken on banks in cases where fraudulent mortgages were issued on stolen properties, helping victims discharge fraudulent debts and recover their assets. 

Fraudsters often use sophisticated methods to hide their tracks, such as dissolving companies or moving funds offshore. Our first step is to conduct a detailed investigation into your case. 

By analysing documents, tracing transactions, and gathering crucial evidence, we uncover the full extent of the fraud. Whether it involves a fraudulent investment scheme or a case of identity theft, we identify all parties responsible, including those whose professional negligence may have enabled the fraud. 

Property fraud frequently involves significant financial losses, leaving victims feeling helpless. Recovering stolen funds is a critical part of what we do. Our team excels in tracing assets, even when they’ve been moved through complex financial channels.  

Working alongside forensic accountants and other specialists, we employ legal tools to follow the money trail and recover as much as possible. In instances where fraudsters cannot be located, we pursue claims against negligent third parties, such as solicitors or agents who failed to protect you during the transaction. 

While many cases can be resolved without court action, some require legal proceedings. Our dispute resolution team is prepared to represent you with skill and determination.

With experience in both individual claims and group actions, we ensure that your case is presented effectively, whether in settlement discussions or before a judge.

For victims of large-scale schemes, we have successfully coordinated group claims, enabling clients to share costs and strengthen their position in pursuing justice. 

Beyond addressing your immediate concerns, we also help you secure your property and minimise the risk of future fraud. This might include advice on registering your property with the Land Registry’s Property Alert service or implementing stronger safeguards in property transactions.

Our aim is not only to recover your losses but also to provide you with lasting peace of mind.