Many investors have unfortunately fallen victim to REIT scams, often due to misleading information or high-pressure sales tactics. These are experienced agents who know what they are doing, so you may easily get caught off-guard.
If you suffered investment losses of more than $100,000 due to the misconduct of a stockbroker, investment advisor, or financial firm, an experienced REIT scam lawyer in California from Meyer Wilson may be able to help you recover your losses.
Our legal team has recovered over $350 million for our clients since 1999. Led by industry-renowned trial attorneys, U.S. News named us among The Best Lawyers in America.®
We can investigate your claim, pursue the recovery of your losses in court or in arbitration, and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Reach out to our REIT scam lawyers today to protect and restore your financial security.
Resourceful REIT Scam Lawyers in California
We use advanced digital tools to manage your case more efficiently. This helps us work faster so you can focus on recovering while we take care of the details. Our real estate investment scam lawyers will keep you posted on any case details, and we will always stay within reach.
Our investment fraud law firm has the resources needed to stand up to the big Wall Street firms. While many law firms have only a few attorneys and very little support, we have a strong team that can handle even the largest and most complicated financial fraud cases.
Understanding REIT
A Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) is a company that owns or finances properties that make money, like office buildings, shopping centers, apartments, hotels, and warehouses. Investing in a REIT lets you put money into real estate without having to buy property yourself.
When you invest in a REIT, you’re buying shares in a group of properties, which allows you to earn income from them without needing a lot of money upfront. REITs are traded like stocks, making them easy to buy and sell.
Many REITs also pay regular dividends, which can be a good source of steady income. If you think you might have been involved in a scam, our experienced investment fraud lawyer can review your portfolio.
What Are REIT Scams?
A REIT scam may involve false or exaggerated statements about how much money you can make, how safe the investment is, and how easily you can access your money. Some scammers present non-traded REITs as safe investments while hiding risks like limited access to your funds.
Investors are often rushed into making quick decisions without enough information through high-pressure sales tactics.
If you were promised steady and high returns with little risk, treat this as a red flag. Conduct a background check on the company and advisor before making a final decision. A California REIT scam attorney can also evaluate the offer and help you make an informed decision.
The Difference Between Publicly Traded and Non-Traded REITs
Both types of REITs let you invest in real estate, but publicly traded REITs are usually easier to buy and sell. Non-traded REITs might offer the chance for higher income, but they often have more restrictions and risks.
Publicly Traded REITs
These are companies that own and manage income-producing real estate, and their shares are bought and sold on stock exchanges, just like regular stocks. This makes them easy to invest in, as you can purchase shares through a broker at any time during market hours.
Publicly traded REITs are required to provide regular financial reports, which helps investors stay informed about their performance. Because of their liquidity and transparency, publicly traded REITs can be a good option for those looking to invest in real estate without the hassle of directly owning property.
Non-Traded REITs
Non-traded REITs are not listed on stock exchanges, which means they are harder to sell and usually require you to keep your money invested for a longer time. You may not be able to access your funds quickly and might have to wait to cash out.
These REITs are often marketed as “safe” investments, but they come with specific risks, like limited access to your money and changing market values. Sometimes, advisors recommend these products to earn high commissions, even if they don’t fit your financial goals or risk level.
Taking Action Against a Registered Representative
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) is a non-profit organization that regulates brokerage firms and protects investors. Many investment agreements, including REITs, have arbitration clauses that require disputes to be resolved through arbitration.
Most REIT scam cases are settled through arbitration, which is a private and simpler process than going to court. In arbitration, both sides share their views with an unbiased arbitrator or panel, who then makes a final decision.
Fraudulent REITs can be hard to track down, making it tough for investors to get their money back. However, the experienced REIT scam lawyers from Meyer Wilson can represent you during FINRA arbitration.
Can I Pursue a FINRA Arbitration?
If you have lost money in your investment portfolio because your advisor was careless, you may have a valid claim. Even if you’re unsure, please contact our REIT scam attorneys. We can review your investment transactions and help you take the next steps.
You may have grounds for a FINRA arbitration if, among other things:
- The advisor didn’t check the security well before suggesting it to you.
- The REIT had very high fees, making it a bad choice from the beginning.
- The non-public REIT may have been too risky for your investments.
- The broker might have made false promises about the REIT or didn’t share important information with you.
- The advisor did not disclose conflicts of interest that could affect their recommendations.
- The advisor pressured you into making a quick decision without giving you enough time to think.
If you have been a victim of a real estate investment scam, you have the right to get your money back. Although the process of recovering your losses can feel overwhelming, you don’t have to face it alone. Our REIT scam attorneys offer compassionate support.
Call Our California REIT Scam Attorneys Today
Older investors may find their retirement savings drained, receiving little or no return, or even losing their entire investment. Meyer Wilson wants to empower you to fight for your financial recovery. We understand the challenges you face and will tell you everything you need to know to make informed decisions.
Every investor deserves justice, and we will be by your side to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Together, we can help you regain your peace of mind.
