Queens couple scammed out of $15,000 in house fraud

A couple in Queens, New York, lost $15,000 after attempting to buy a house that was never for sale. They were misled by a real estate agent who claimed the property was theirs for a down payment but never allowed them to see it. After a year of waiting, the couple sought their money back, only to find the agent's office abandoned. They eventually won a small claims court case but still did not receive their full deposit until a news investigation helped them recover it. To avoid similar scams, experts recommend verifying property ownership, checking real estate agent credentials, and being cautious of low prices and upfront payments. Using a licensed agent and escrow services can also provide protection against fraud.