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March 10, 2025
For Immediate Release
Ottawa County Treasurer Cheryl Clark, Ottawa County Prosecutor Sarah Matwiejczyk and Ottawa County Sheriff Eric DeBoer are warning homeowners about deceptive and illegal schemes targeting individuals facing property tax delinquency or foreclosure proceedings.
“These scammers deliberately target our most vulnerable residents during times of financial hardship,” said Ottawa County Treasurer Cheryl Clark. “It’s critical that property owners know legitimate assistance is available through proper channels.”
Scammers Exploiting Financial Hardship
Fraudsters often prey on homeowners with false promises of assistance, only to strip them of equity, ownership rights, or additional funds. As tax deadlines approach, these schemes become more prevalent, exploiting individuals who are already under financial stress.
Elderly homeowners are especially at risk. Many of these schemes are designed to manipulate property owners into making hasty decisions that can lead to devastating consequences.
Common Scam Tactics
Scammers use a variety of methods to reach homeowners, including:
- Personal mailings
- Emails
- Text messages
- Phone calls
- In-person contacts
These contacts often urge property owners to “call now” for supposed assistance, creating a false sense of urgency.
Scams to Watch Out For
- Fraudulent “tax specialists” demanding excessive upfront fees to negotiate with tax authorities
- Property investors pressuring homeowners to sell for far below market value
- Fake government representatives demanding immediate payment via unusual methods
- Deed theft schemes tricking owners into signing over property rights
- Phony loan modification services requiring upfront payments for non-existent help
In many cases, these so-called “assistance programs” result in homeowners losing all rights to their property—even when they still have significant equity. Working directly with the Ottawa County Treasurer’s Office is the best way to protect property ownership and explore legitimate options.
Protect Yourself—Contact the County Treasurer First
Some of these third-party solicitations are criminal in nature. If you are contacted by anyone other than the Ottawa County Treasurer’s Office offering help with delinquent property taxes or foreclosure, do not engage—contact the Treasurer’s Office immediately at (616) 994-4501.
Protect your property. Protect your rights. Call your County Treasurer’s Office FIRST.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Cheryl Clark, Ottawa County Treasurer, 616-994-4501
Sarah Matwiejczyk, Ottawa County Prosecutor, 616-846-8215
Eric DeBoer, Ottawa County Sheriff, 616-738-4000
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