Ep 8. Extreme Home Ripoffs / Greedings from Florida

In season 8 episode 8 of American Greed, viewers witness the devastating consequences of home renovation scams in Florida. The episode titled "Extreme Home Ripoffs / Greedings from Florida" showcases the lengths to which con artists will go to deceive innocent homeowners.

The first story featured on the show follows the case of a contractor who swindled several homeowners out of tens of thousands of dollars. The contractor promised high-quality renovations to these individuals and ensured them that the work would be completed on time and within budget. However, as the renovations progressed, the contractor began adding more and more costs to the project, citing issues that were allegedly beyond his control.

To ensure the work was up to code, the contractor reassured homeowners that all necessary permits had been obtained. However, the reality was far different, as homeowners later discovered that the contractor had never even applied for the necessary permits. Eventually, the contractor skipped town, leaving the victims with unfinished projects and a mountain of debt.

The second story in the episode examines a particularly egregious case of mortgage fraud. A group of conspirators sought out homeowners who were struggling financially and offered them the chance to refinance their homes at a lower rate. However, rather than provide legitimate refinancing services, the group took over the titles to these homes and subsequently took out multiple loans on the properties.

The conspirators then disappeared with the cash, leaving homeowners with astronomical debt and no way to reclaim their homes. Authorities ultimately intervened, but not before the damage had been done.

Throughout "Extreme Home Ripoffs / Greedings from Florida," viewers see firsthand the heart-wrenching impact of fraud and deceit in the home renovation industry. From unfinished projects to stolen homes, con artists continue to prey upon unsuspecting homeowners with no regard for the devastation they leave in their wake.

American Greed season 8 episode 8 serves as an important reminder of the importance of conducting thorough research and vetting contractors before agreeing to any home renovation projects. By taking the time to ensure that a contractor is reputable and trustworthy, homeowners can avoid falling victim to the kinds of scams featured in this episode.