Homeowners Guide to Surviving a Desperate Housing Market

Desperate times breed desperate people. That saying couldn't be more true when it comes to describing the current housing market. As the real estate noose tightens around the housing market, millions of people who make their living from it will feel it the most.

Here's 3 tips to help you survive a desperate housing market.

1. Beware of Too-Good-To-Be True Deals.

We've all heard this saying from birth. "If it's too good to be true ... it probably is." Right?

But despite the warnings the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) files overflow with victims of too-good -to-be true deals. With the growing housing and economic woes, experts predict those files to at least double in the next year.

Government leaders race to create laws to prosecute and protect, but victims multiply faster than the government can find ways to protect them. Many con artist and shady companies continue to take advantage of this window of opportunity.

2. See Proof Before You Say Yes.

An effective way to protect yourself against the coming onslaught of con men and con companies is to see proof of their promises before you decide to sign anything. Don't just settle for proof they provide but independent proof. For example, customer testimonials, Better Business Bureau confirmation, Government affiliations or licensing.

Most legitimate companies won't mind waiting until you check these. This will often make con artist and the shady business nervous or at best irritated.

I still shake my head in disbelief how many homeowners pay thousands of dollars on a verbal promise and a handshake ... nothing else. Make sure you get all promises in writing. It would shock you how many calls and emails I get from people asking for help or advice - who fail to do this.

If you don't get anything else from reading this message, get this. The housing market has quickly changed before your eyes and ears. The days of taking someones word with your home, mortgage, home repairs and improvements is gone for now, maybe forever.