“The lucrative business of paid experts, BS bloggers, lying marketers and misleading the American people is ruining any hope for Main Street. Should the FTC step in and bust these marketers who deceive and dupe the public for their financial gain?”
One of these paid puppets who I have blogged about before is Martin Mandelman or Martin Andelman (I think he is now going by Andelman because of this post) who blogs for Aaron Krowne over at a notorious mortgage broker blog, www.ML-Implode.com. This guy Martin operates a blog called, Mandelman Matters where he claims to be a homeowner advocate and loan modification expert. He is constantly writing articles promoting loan modification attorneys and also criticizing law enforcement for cracking down on lawyers and loan mod firms. (More on Martin Below)
Nothing gets me more upset than liars and thieves.
I personally feel that they are the scum of the earth and everything that is wrong in our current world. These Main Street leeches add no true value to society, so they lie and steal to make their livings. Some perform their business of deceit in the darkness of the shadows in order to conceal their dastardly deeds. While others operate from roof tops, announcing to the world that they are blogging angels here to save man kind, but in the back ground devilish deeds are taking place in the shadows.
Just recently the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced new guidelines in relation to blogs (http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2009/10/endortest.shtm) that regulate bloggers. I am a blogger myself who takes my job very seriously. My method of operation is to protect the public from scams and help them through one of the worst economies in American history. It is a job that I do not take lightly. It is also a great way for me to freely express my First Amendment Rights, but at the same time, these rights can be abused by unscrupulous bloggers who use this right to deceive and mislead the public.
From the FTC:
Changes Affect Testimonial Advertisements, Bloggers, Celebrity Endorsements
The Federal Trade Commission today announced that it has approved final revisions to the guidance it gives to advertisers on how to keep their endorsement and testimonial ads in line with the FTC Act.
The notice incorporates several changes to the FTC’s Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising, which address endorsements by consumers, experts, organizations, and celebrities, as well as the disclosure of important connections between advertisers and endorsers. The Guides were last updated in 1980.
Under the revised Guides, advertisements that feature a consumer and convey his or her experience with a product or service as typical when that is not the case will be required to clearly disclose the results that consumers can generally expect. In contrast to the 1980 version of the Guides – which allowed advertisers to describe unusual results in a testimonial as long as they included a disclaimer such as “results not typical” – the revised Guides no longer contain this safe harbor.
This is EXACTLY why the FTC has new guidelines for online marketers and is going to go after rogue bloggers who use their online pedestals to push scams, false claims or known misinformation which can cause harm to the public. I feel this is a great move by the FTC to place these blogs under the legal microscope because these bloggers are causing a lot of harm to consumers. They need to be regulated and the FTC’s new regulations clearly statex how bloggers who engage in commercial activity, should clearly state how they are related to the product, and make it obvious they are engaging in business, or have been paid to endorse the product.
My job as a blogger is centered around consumer activism and being a voice for struggling Americans. One of these tasks that I perform daily is to bring the devilish deeds that are done in the dark and bring them to the blogging light for the common good of man.
In doing so, I take great personal risks to protect my fellow brothers and sisters who are suffering on the American streets. This is not a job I take lightly, but one that I feel has been handed down to me by God and is my life’s calling.
I am in no way perfect, nor do I claim to be. Many people who know me or work with me, understand that I have been in trouble with the law on quite a few occasions in my 38 years of life. From drunk driving arrests to sales of marijuana, I have been on the wrong side of the law more times than I had cared to be. I have seen the inside of quite a few County Jails and this last time, even a California Prison where I had vowed to God, the government and my family that I would never break the law again for my gain.
Even when I broke the law in the past, I didn’t lie, cheat or steal from people. It was never in my DNA to do so.
It has been over five years since my last run in with the law. But one thing is for sure, I wouldn’t change a thing in my past because it has made me the man, father and consumer advocate I am today. Prisons in California are called the “California Departments of Corrections,” and I feel that my incarceration gave me time and the tools to correct those behaviors which caused me to do time behind bars. I hit rock bottom for a reason and my life has came full circle since. I feel 100% redemption has occurred in my life. It has now been approximately 5 years since I was released from the California Rehabilitation Center in Norco, California and I haven’t even received a ticket or had any issues since.
I too have done things that I am not proud of, but a few things I do not do is steal, lie and cheat to make a living. Those traits just do not sit well with me. I think many people who have never been busted deserve or should go to prison. It would do them and our society a lot of good. But, some creeps just never get taught a lesson.
I feel that the good people on Main Street should do everything they can to expose these people that are misleading the public for their financial gain. We need to shine a light on these liars that make their living by duping unsuspecting people into believing the words they say in order for them to pay their bills.
Rogue bloggers who use their blogs to mislead,deceive and push consumers into known scams is what I call an online form of internet highway robbery. To me, this is akin to driving a bank robber to rob a bank and then when the driver gets arrested he says to the FBI, “Heck, I didn’t rob the bank, I only drove the robber to the bank to rob it. So, that means I am innocent, right?”
WRONG! You are just as guilty and complicit as the person who entered the bank with a gun and there are literally hundreds of drivers sitting in Federal Prison as I write this.
The reason I bring up bank robber accomplices is because that is exactly what is happening in the business blogging and scamming consumers. This seems to be the method of operation for many loan modification, debt and foreclosure scams. They use paid puppets who act as expert shills to promote their scams to the public. Just what the FTC is trying to crack down on.
In reality, anyone with half a brain can do a little research and they will soon find that Martin Andelman is nothing more than a paid puppet for many of the loan modification firms that have been shut down or served cease and desist orders or lawyers who have had to turn over their license to the State Bar over the last year. Many (Not all) of these firms he has endorsed as trusted law firms have since been shut down by either the DRE, AG or FTC for scamming homeowners across the country. His record is complete crap at performing any true due diligence on these scams. I feel it is because he is getting paid and is turning a blind eye to the scam facts in order to line his blogging pockets. As mentioned above, not every firm he has promoted is a scam, but it is as clear as day that the vast majority on his ever changing list have turned out to be just that.
Here is a cached version on Google of these loan mod firms and how they get on his list. Please note that he says he gets no compensation for this:
SPOTLIGHT ON:
* United Law Group Inc.
* McFarlin & Geurts LLP
* Feldman Law Center
* Parman Law Group
* Shah Peerally Law Group
* CDA Law Center
* Mortgage Relief Law Center
* Litchney Law
* Mortgage Restructuring Solutions
* Traut Law Group
HOW FIRMS GET LISTED AS BEING AMONG THOSE I TRUST:
I get calls and emails from homeowners all over the country every week. And, as all of my readers are aware, I do not make money from loan modifications, mortgages, or real estate. In fact, I have never even been in the loan modification, mortgage, or real estate industries. I am a neutral, objective and un-biased party who has been writing to fight for homeowners for over a year now, and I’ll continue to do so until they are treated fairly and this crisis has ended, which the way things are going may be for the rest of my life.
Before I list a firm here, I need to know what the firm’s owners are like as people. Why they went into the business and how they think about and treat homeowners. I need to know that they are people who are compassionate, tolerant and understanding.
My goal is to be able to tell my readers that they can trust these firms in all cases… that they are all in business to do their best to help homeowners remain in their homes under terms they can afford… that they are honest.
An overview of steps I go through before placing a firm on my list:
1. I personally interview each firm’s owner, managing partner and/or senior manager over the phone at least once, which takes 30-45 minutes, and often times much longer.
2. I check online and with regulatory agencies in an attempt to ensure there are no pending actions or unresolved issues.
3. I also talk with others in the industry, check the firm’s references, inquire with competing firms, whatever I can think of…
4. I look at the firm’s internal practices, systems, reports and philosophy of doing business.
5. I review what’s being said online, but I do not place much stock in the Rip-off Report or the BBB.
The result of this process, which takes about a week and sometimes two, doesn’t mean a “yes” or “no”. Whatever I find I bring up to the firm’s management directly to make sure the issue was addressed. I fully understand that almost every firm is capable of having some number of homeowners that have complained. Heck, every company that serves the public will have complaints.
If everything looks good, we also visit the firm and spend at least half a day seeing their operation function first hand. I’ve found that each firm has their own unique personality and specialized expertise. Some are particularly systems strong, others are more service focused.
The tragedy of someone losing their home to foreclosure as a result of what the banks and investment banks have done to our financial markets, with the help of our politicians and regulators is something I will never let go of or be okay with. I believe that history will show this to be the greatest tragedy in our nation’s history.
Before you decide to hire a firm to help you obtain a loan modification, whether it’s one listed here or another you’ve found on your own, you can feel free to contact me to compare notes if you’d like.
I can be reached anytime via email at:
mandelman@mac.com
Just recently he took these so-called trusted firms down after myself and a fellow blogger shined a big a$$ online spot light on his unscrupulous online activities. Also, the California Bar came out with a list of lawyers who were under investigation by the Bar for a significant amount of complaints and many of these attorneys were on Martin Andelman’s notorious lawyer list.
Attorneys like Sean Rutledge of the United Law Group who since has surrendered his law license, Mortgage Relief Law Center who has hundreds of complaints online and is listed with the LA BBB with an F rating. He even promoted Fed Mod or the Federal Loan Modification Center with Attorney Nabile Anz who were sued by the FTC and the California Bar filed charges against Anz in July took over his law firm and he is now no longer able to practice law. The Federal Loan Modification Center was one of the biggest loan mod chop shops on the West Coast and Martin was touting them as the holy home saviors to homeowners.
This shows you just how devious this clown is. Don’t be fooled by how charming, funny and loan modification smart he is. After all, it is he who is telling us these lies as his actions prove just how legally dumb he is.
Research Links:
http://members.calbar.ca.gov/search/member_detail.aspx?x=183324
http://loanworkout.org/2009/04/federal-loan-modification-center-aka-fed-mod-ftc-lawsuit/
http://loanworkout.org/2009/08/federal-loan-modification-center-swindling-homewowners-again/
http://members.calbar.ca.gov/search/member_detail.aspx?x=183324
http://www.ftc.gov/os/caselist/0923070/090626fedloancmpt.pdf
http://www.ftc.gov/os/caselist/0923070/090406fedloanmodcmpt.pdf
http://www.dre.ca.gov/cons_drs.asp
The following attorneys have received a significant number of complaints related to the loan modification services they were hired to perform. They are entitled to a full and fair hearing on any charges that may be filed in the future. No discipline may be imposed unless and until the State Bar proves allegations of misconduct by clear and convincing evidence.
- David Arase, Bar No. 233705, Arase Law Firm and National Housing Assistance
- Stephen Burns, Bar No. 113371, Legal Group Network
- Robert Buscho, Bar No. 122556, United Law Group
- Nicholas Chavarela, Bar No. 251632, Rodis Law Group and America’s Law Group
- Steven Feldman, Bar No. 103676, Feldman Law Center
- Steven Feldman, Bar No. 224065, Avantgarde Group
- Paul Lucas, Bar No. 163076, Lucas Law Center
- Brandon Moreno, Bar No. 233750, U. S. Foreclosure
- Jeffrey Nemerofsky, Bar No. 213014, U.S. Advocacy Law Group and U.S. Financial Products
- Gregory Paiva, Bar No. 207218, Law Offices of Gregory Paiva
- Adrian Pomery, Bar No. 249664, U.S. Foreclosure
- Ronald Rodis, Bar No. 181873, Rodis Law Group and America’s Law Group
- Mark Shoemaker, Bar No. 134828, Advocates for Fair Lending
- Marc Tow, Bar No. 78429, Marc Tow and Associates
- Michael Yellin, Bar No. 255050, A Fresh Start Loan Modification
You can scroll below and see the exchange of words, comments and links to these facts concerning this exchange with Martin and his involvement in promoting these firms for cash.
So, is Martin Andelman just some innocent blogging derelict who is completely oblivious to what he claims to be an expert about. LOL, I highly doubt that this guy is that dumb because he tells us all how smart he is daily. Right Martin? I have never seen someone so full of himself, until I came across his blog.
This is where my bank robber’s driver analogy relates to this blogger and self proclaimed homeowner saviour, Martin Andelman.
What he does by claiming these scams are legit is akin to driving the bank robber to rob the bank. The only difference is that he uses mental deception and his blog that appears to be real sound advice to the unsuspecting victims who are looking for a help. His words essentially deceive the public by promoting that which he says is a trusted firm, when in reality many of them are nothing more than scams or illegal operations.
This has been proven on numerous occasions by myself and also a former ML Implode blogger named Krista Railey who left her blogging post because of these unscrupulous activities. She is a mortgage broker and one of the few good people left in the business who I commend for taking such risks to expose these creeps for the people that they are.
Below is a collection of our investigation and words that involve Martin Andelman of Mandleman Matters. This is not a personal vendetta, just an expose to bring to light that which he does in the dark.
I really think that the FTC needs to take a look into this guy. Especially since he disrespects you all daily and even at the ABA conference he had the nuts to poke fun at the FTC. You can see that article here. Here is a quote from Andelman in that article:
Tom Pahl of the FTC spoke about all of the companies that havescammedhomeownersoverthe past year or two by promising to obtain loan modifications. I took notes as he spoke, preparing to fire back with both barrels, because as soon as he was done it was to be my turn and I wanted to make sure I refuted each and every point he had raised. From Tom’s perspective, essentially everyone offering loan modification services is a “scammer” to some degree. As I wrote down much of what he was saying, I couldn’t wait for my turn so I could let him have it.
Looking at me, but speaking to the large room of banking lawyers, Tom started out by saying, “I agree with almost everything Martin just said,” to which I replied just loudly enough for him to hear, “So, why did I drive to Utah if you could have done my part?” And then speaking to the audience I said, “He’s not allowed to agree with me… why is he agreeing with me?”
“I agree with almost everything Martin said,” Tom was saying. “But the problem we at the FTC have had is determining how to tell the good guys from the bad guys.” He was looking at me like I was supposed to respond.
I thought about it for a couple of seconds, remembering how difficult it had been for me and my team to figure out the very same thing, as we were researching the subject of loan modifications over the past year, and I realized he was right. “Fair enough,” I replied to his less-than-rhetorical query, “You’re right about that… it’s not an easy thing to do.” Now I was agreeing with him? This was deteriorating fast… what was I going to do next… start agreeing with Wells Fargo about something? The thought made me vomit in my mouth just a little.
“I’ll have to think about that,” I said. “I’ll have to think about how I can help in that regard.” I had no idea how I would help in that regard, but he had me dead to rights, so I had to at least say that there might be some way to separate the wheat from the chaff on the loan modification playing field.
He knew he had me, so he couldn’t help but go for the knock out punch. “How many legitimate attorneys that are helping homeowners with loan modifications do you know?” I had to think about that for a moment. “I don’t know, maybe 40 or 50? Maybe even 60, 70?” I didn’t like the way this discussion was headed one bit, but his point had been made… me knowing a relative handful of skilled and ethical lawyers was not going to solve what is clearly a national problem of mammoth proportion.
My plea to the FTC – Dear Tom Pahl from the FTC,
How long are you going to let this conceited, cocky, rogue blogger continue to disrespect the FTC, AG’s, the Bar and screw consumers on Main Street? That is the question of the day……
Martin Mandleman facts (Most info provided is courtesy of the great Krista Railey and TickerForum.org):
As I pointed out on ML Implode, 2 of the firms on Mandelman Matters Trusted Firm List are listed here. Of course, there are only 10 firms remaining on Mandelman’s list (names have a way of disappearing without explanation).
With the addition of Green Credit Solutions, who were also silently removed from the list, that is 3 out of 11 firms on his “Trusted Firms” list that either have open investigations and/or regulatory action against them. Not much of a batting average if you ask me.
Yet this self-anointed modification expert who has no mortgage background or regulatory experience wants homeowners and industry professionals to trust his recommendations. But when the chips are down and problems emerge, he feels no obligation to his readers to advise them why firms are removed from his trusted firm list.
Unfortunately there are more than just a few blogs and websites that advocate the modification industry and promote modification companies and attorneys.
Let’s look at the worst site: The Mortgage Lender Implode-O-Meter and the Green Credit Solutions scandal. ML Implode promoted Green Credit Solutions (and later Green Credit Law Center). Despite months of me pointing out obvious compliance issues, they continued to promote GCS on their website even at a time when they knew the company was not in compliance with the California Department of Real Estate. Randall of ML Implode even went so far as to actively promote the company. Randall made this comment on the forums:
“Yes Syd… we ARE doing Loan Modifications, and Debt Settlement also. With a staff of 40 and growing fast… in-house counsel and a network of hundreds of Attorneys nationwide.
We are working on Retail, Wholesale (Brokers) and Institutional levels. Advertising on the Internet, Radio and Newspapers is working.
The tremendous infrastructure costs to do it RIGHT, and LEGALLY should move Brokers over to a system they can trust. Gov’t oversight and audits and the threat of going to jail (should you screw up) should not be taken lightly. Get in touch with GCS if you want to do it right, with the full confidence of the
Team at the Implode-O-Meter.Whether you are a Broker looking to expand your product lines, or even need a ‘Mod’ yourself, visit:
1.
These are just some of the shameless promotional comments. However, Martin Andelman also interceded on behalf of Green Credit with Steve at MFI Miami in getting Green Credit off his Worst Mod Company List. In Steve’s article removing GCS off his worst mod list list, Steve wrote:“You’re probably wondering why I’m bringing this up. Well, a few weeks ago, I received a call from Martin Andelman, who writes a blog for ML-Implode.com. He asked me about the issues I had with Green Credit Solutions and what criteria I used for my twenty worst mod company list. I told him it was based on the complaints I received, and we began talking about the Chris Campbell saga involving Dr. Howard. Martin spent the next 90 minutes trying to persuade me that my impression of Green Credit Solutions was wrong.”
[url http://www.mfi-modsquad.com/why-green-credit-solutions-is-coming-off-the-list-of-20-worst-mod-companies" target="_blank">http://getgreencredit.ml-implode.com/lan....
Steve later went on to quote reasons for removal which were patently false.
In June 2009, GCS was issued a Desist and Refrain Order from the California Department of Real Estate and the DRE filed an Accusation. Green Credit later closed their offices and websites and reopened under a new name. Here is the website:
http://www.getmycreditgrade.com/
I've called out Andelman and ML Implode for weeks now to report the closure of GCS and advise borrowers how to obtain an accounting of their trust funds and possible refund because the GCS closing and reopening were done in stealth. Not only did ML Implode and Andelman not report the truth on GCS, ML Implode moved or deleted threads regarding GCS and their refusal to report. Not even Steve at MFI Miami reported the closure. Its interesting to note that I contacted the "new company", and when I asked if they were still doing modifications, the woman I spoke to chucked and said "of course".
Note: I have verified the web registration for Getmycreditgrade.com. GCS is listed on the registration. GCS Marketing also changed their DRE license address to the new address. The DRE also shows an advance fee agreement for GCS Marketing:
http://www.dre.ca.gov/cons_adv_fees_list....
I spoke to two of GCS' customers yesterday who want their money back. One resolved their own issue, another desperately needs help. The borrower who needs help also participated in GCS' debt management program. The issues and move should have been disclosed to the public, and they should not have been able to create a new identity so easily. I am also finding modification company websites that are linked to getmycreditgrade.com.
My big question is why ML Implode and Andelman want to keep this issue mute.
Now, Aaron at ML Implode wants to create a new foreclosure prevention website and attorney services network at www.iamfacingforeclosure.com.
Did some digging. Green Credit is now doing business as Guardian Credit Services. Found the corporate filing. Christopher Fox is the agent for service with the same Foothill Ranch CA address. Green Res changed their mailing address to the Foothill Ranch address as did GCS Marketing. Both companies show on the CA DRE's listing of companies with no objection by the DRE (however, Green Res is showing under a prior dba of Pacwest Funding Realty).
Both www.getmycreditgrade.com and www.myguardiancredit.com have Green Credit Services listed on the web registrations.
Big problem getting trust fund accounting and refund data. Live chat states they are hired by Guardian Credit and can't help with Green Credit Solutions prior customers or provide information on obtaining a refund.
Apparently, a CA DRE Desist and Refrain Order is useless. Companies can simply reopen under another name. And apparently, ML Implode and Andelman aren't interested in reporting the facts so that industry professionals and borrowers can be warned.
Wow. That is flagrant.
The plot thickens. Found this thread and post from Randall at ML Implode titled "Trusted Firm List"
http://forum.ml-implode.com/viewtopic.ph....
Quote:
We're starting something new, and would like your thoughts and feedback.
http://ml-implode.com/dbmod.cg.....mp;sb....
Every account comes with the ability to update and change the page... at least parts of it.
Just for fun and testing, there is a company called 'Name' in there... look for the comment on the main listing page that says "This page was last updated:" There's a link there to update the page... click, then select 'Name' as the company, and the password is "Password."
Have fun...
So, I decide to have some fun. From the looks of Randall's post and the page, it looks like ML Implode is doing a "Trusted List" for loan modification firms. Check out the page:
http://ml-implode.com/dbmod.cgi/ak/defau....
The title of the page:
Quote:
The Mortgage Lender Implode-O-Meter
Trusted Firms
Handling Foreclosure Mitigation & Loan Workouts
"Your source for Loan Modification Companies you can Trust!"There is a prominent ad for Mandelman that says "click here to be considered for this list".
When you click on "To participate please click here for more information.", it takes you to a sales pitch:
http://ml-implode.com/mod-questionnaire.....
This page makes it clear that this is a paid service based on the information posted on the bottom page in regard to cancelation. Hence, companies pay to be on the list.
As I've pointed out, Aaron's Iamfacingforeclosure.com site is also a referral site for trusted attorneys.
Yet, they've completely failed at as a watch dog and have a poor track record regarding recommendations.
However, since Randall said to have fun, the company edit function on the link Randall provided has entertainment value.
ML Implode has updated their advertising page, and based on the information shown on the page, the cost to be included in the "trusted" list is $1000 upfront and $500 a month. The upfront fee can be credited to the monthly fee. Here is the page:
http://ml-implode.com/mod-questionnaire.....
Excerpt:
Quote:
We have created a searchable(by State) database of Loss Mitigation Companies. As a participant, you can submit to us certain 'static' data about your company, and then by password, be able to input and adjust your company offerings, details, photos and Logos. Consumers and businesses can find you here on our site, or you can link directly to your page from your own web site. Our standing with search engines will help bring your name, and your site to higher levels.
We do have available a 'test' database where you can go in and experience some of the features. Click here and edit/change the content for Mister Loan Mod Attorney -- password is 'lossmit.'
The fee per State listing is $500.00 per month. This is payable online by credit card on the monthly anniversary of your listing going live. Our contract is a standard IAB Insertion Order, a sample of which can be viewed here. Total payment with initial order is $1,000.00 based upon a 30-day cancellation policy... which really means, you're all paid up for at least two months! There are no set up fees or other charges.
According to another page, advertisers can chose to be listed on Mandelman Matters, ML Implode, or Iamfacingforeclosure.com.
http://ml-implode.com/advertise.html
Excerpt:
Quote:
Constant research, exclusive reporting, and news aggregation of the Mortgage Industry has resulted in us becoming THE source of the truth... no holes barred.
THE source of the truth?????? ROFLMAO.
I'm just sayin'...
Martin Andelman September 8, 2009 at 8:00 am [edit]
8 Krista Railey September 8, 2009 at 7:21 pm [edit] Martin, I have talked to you and emailed you on my issues. Do I really need to post the emails and your responses to make a point?
And if you tell me one more time to do something productive in regard to the modification, I think I’ll have to barf. I’ve told you repeatedly that when borrowers have questions, I answer them. In fact, I received word from one borrower today that they can begin the trial period for HAMP program on October 1st. My charge- nada.
From reading Moe’s site and forums, I see that Moe provides free assistance too. Lets be clear on this, I don’t care about the past mistakes of people who provide free help and advice to borrowers that need it. I’d rather deal with someone who had a past, turned over a new leaf and then moved on to help people rather than a shill with a spotless past who merely steers borrowers to modification firms and does nothing to truly help borrowers.
In regard to complaints, I told you to do some research. But since you haven’t figured out how to use Google yet, you can start here:
http://www.consumeraffairs.com/finance/green_credit.html
http://www.loanmodcons.com/2009/05/green-credit-solutions-cons-another.html
http://greenprofs.com/is-green-credit-solutions-a-reputable-company-for-loan-mods/
http://www.trulia.com/voices/Foreclosure/I_m_looking_for_information_about_a_company_called-67334
http://debtsettlementfraud.org/debt-relief-scam-complaints/2009/8/26/green-credit-solutions.html
http://implode-explode.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=16074&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=30
http://loanworkout.org/2009/07/green-credit-solutions
As to the person who posted their comment anonymously, why do you think they would possibly want to reveal their identity? Hmm… maybe the person fears that you might retaliate? Maybe the conversation was verbal, and it can’t be proven? I know I would personally appreciate if the poster would contact me through Moe and provide an affidavit privately.
Nonetheless, you did admit on MLI that you do collect a fee for out of state companies because your compliance attorney charges almost $1000 to do a background check. Also, Aaron of ML Implode wrote this:
“But I can tell you from my conversations with Martin, revolving around how to help people and raise money for the site at the same time, the idea was to charge firms to be screened, at which point they MAY be listed at our option. That is, payment would be for the screening process primarily, and listing would only happen should we approve them. They would have to agree that there is no guarantee of being listed.
It is of course very easy to make this sound bad, but that can be done with anything that involves us actually earning revenue.”
… and you said:
“What Aaron is referring to is related to approving firms as Trusted Firms when they are outside the state of California. I met with a compliance attorney who advises the State Bar as to how I might do this. She felt that she could help me approve out of state firms through a process, but that it would include background checks and other compliance reviews that would cost me close to $1,000. It is NOT a profit center and no one can pay to be on the list. But I can’t afford to spend $1,000 to have a firm listed. And I can’t check out a firm in another state for free.
Regardless, this is not something that won’t be disclosed, so I’m not sure why it’s even being questioned at this point.”
So, now that we know what you are, the only question that remains is price. But as you say, its not something that will be disclosed. : )
I do find it interesting that Aaron is planning to convert the Iamfacingforeclosure site to a paid referral site. Surprisingly, I do have emails from one of the organizers regarding this fact. I’ll keep the emails private, but this ML thread confirms it:
http://forum.ml-implode.com/viewtopic.php?t=111212
Here is an excerpt:
“Aaron and I are looking for bloggers. We are revamping the “I am Facing Foreclosure” site to become the mothership of ALL THINGS FORECLOSURE.
WE will be offering FREE foreclosure assistance information, attorney networks for ATTORNEYS WHO GET IT, resource info, consumer mall, blogs, forums, whistleblower info, and news archives. We want this site to be the IMPLODE-O-METER for foreclosure.
The case law is coming in and so is the discovery. Let the games begin.”
Hmmm… let’s rewind and examine this statement:
“Let the games begin.”
Sounds familiar, where could I have possibly heard it before?
Oh, here!
http://mandelman.ml-implode.com/
“Mandelman Matters. I am here… let the games begin”
Just for information purposes, a ML Forum member posted this response to the thread which was immediately moved to Idle Chatter under the topic “Off Topic”:
“Can I volunteer to tell you to accept responsiblity for your actions?”
http://forum.ml-implode.com/viewtopic.php?t=111397
Martin, you can scream and yell and get righteously indignant all you want, but it won’t change facts. You can also jump up and down and threaten to sue me all you want, but you better believethat I save everything, and I have a whole lot of documentation and information to back me up. I documented files for 20 years, and you better believe that I have a few CDs worth of content that includes emails, threads, websites and documentation from a variety of sources on this issue and a back bone that you can’t even imagine. So chose your threats wisely. I’ve been amazing kind thus far, and I encourage you to fight nice.
Better yet, you can just man up and save face. Decide.
9Martin Andelman September 10, 2009 at 1:14 am [edit] Actually, after reading your last post I am mostly embarrased about having responded thus far. I guess I was having a hectic week and your posts got me to respond out of anger at your arrogance and obnoxious and uninformed accusuations.
Now, having read your last comment with a clearer head, I’m just sorry to have paid any attention at all.
Hope everyone had a lovely holiday weekend…
10 Krista Railey September 10, 2009 at 9:23 am [edit] Martin, you still aren’t getting the point of what I am saying and why I am saying it.
I have nothing against you personally. My issue is entirely with how both you and ML Implode handled the GCS situation. You promoted the company. You can’t deny this. Its an established, documented fact. You did this despite me providing you with details as to my compliance concerns. ML Implode did so as well.
But when the chips were down, and the DRE issued a D & R order and filed a complaint, both you and ML Implode remained mute on the issue. To make matters worse, MLI deleted unfavorable posts, and moved discussion threads on GCS to Idle Chatter and General Discussion- areas of the board that have little traffic or are not accessible to non registered readers.
Why you don’t find this deplorable is beyond me. I have provided you with links to websites where GCS customers have complained, and stated they were not advised of the closure. But what I can’t understand is why you need a large number of complaints to justify releasing the facts on the company. Do people really need to be outraged enough to complain before you think its appropriate to notify the public of the closure?
ML Implode prides itself on being a “watch dog” site. You maintain a Trusted Firms page on your site. That puts you in the position of being a “Watch Dog” too.
The closure of GCS is a huge issue not just in regard to homeowners, but as a message to the modification industry. Other companies duplicated the GCS business model, and people need to armed with information in order to protect themselves.
Knowing how long I have been discussing my concerns regarding the company with you and ML Implode, the inaction up to this point sends a very loud message which does not bode well for “watch dogs” who look the other way.
I kept being told by ML Implode that GCS was compliant. Yet legal codes for the exclusions were not provided. Information was not only not forthcoming, I was told it proprietary. I was assured by ML Implode that they had checked out everything, and the company was compliant. I did not deem their statements reliable, and I stopped writing my blog because of the issue.
All the while, GCS had clear communication from the DRE regarding their marketing, advertising, and advance fee agreements. Yet during this time, GCS was advertising on ML Implode and Randall was openly soliciting GCS. In January 2009, I was shown a letter from the CA DRE to GCS regarding concerns with their advance fee agreement. I read the letter, and told Curt and Randall in Curt’s office that the DRE’s concerns were reasonable. Therefore, ML Implode, knowingly, allowed GCS to advertise and promoted GCS at a time they could not legally operate (according to the CA DRE).
Now, please forgive me for being blunt, but don’t you think the DRE D & R order and Accusation weigh the facts a little more toward my side of the argument?
You know I write this at great personal risk considering a pending legal matter. But, what is right and equitable has to outweigh selfish interests.
Now MLI wants to create a foreclosure resource, referral, and watch dog site. And you want to build a “Trusted Firm” lists. Good luck with that.
Both of these endeavors include taking money from potential sponsors for some purpose or another. They even quoted your famous line “Let the games begin” when they announced the new site on an ML Implode discussion thread.
I say let the games stop.
11 Moe Bedard September 10, 2009 at 10:23 am [edit] It is now time for me to chime in. But I am going to be brief because I feel Krista and everyone who knows anything about this industry and life in general can clearly see who is BS, who has something to gain from what they write and who has the track record to even intelligently speak and debate on this topic.
Obviously Martin, Krista has handed you your head on a loan mod scam platter and you are here to save face for your “new found” career as a consumer advocate for attorney ran loan mod firms. This is as clear as the day and as dark as the night.
It is what it is.
I am not here for personal reasons, just to do my job, blog the truth and protect consumers against lies. You might want to try it someday dude……
As far as you getting paid to say these firms “are trusted loan modification firms” is EXACTLY what I have heard on the loan modification street from some VERY CREDIBLE SOURCES. Actually, one of my advertisers who happens to be a friend, Nathan Fransen ESQ. with the Fransen and Molinaro Law Firm told me this information. So, with that said, please sue me because I did just write that. I would love to subpoena Mr. Fransen and your financial records, along with the shams that you call trusted law firms. (well at least until they get busted right Martin?) I am sure we could prove without a reasonable doubt that you are a “paid puppet” and your speaking thrown is ML Implode.
I am sure Nathan will be pissed at me for dragging him into this, but I am not here to lie or protect anyone. I may even lose his firm as an advertiser over this. Oh well…..
We can see the strings moving your mouth and guiding your typing fingers now Martin. They are no longer invisible dude..OOPS!
Just look at IamfacingForelcosure.com that Aarown Krowneoperates and you are working with at ML Implode. Him and I were partners for a brief period of time in 2008 and I thought he was a stand up guy and his interests align with Main Street. Oh how I was sooooo wrong and you and this Green Credit scandal just proves it. That was until I got sick of him just doing nothing and getting credit for all that I did. To this day, he has MY CONTENT on his website with no mention of me being the author for his financial gain. The first 30-40 posts on that website are my words.
This shows the kind of clowns that run ML Implode and they were ALL involved in steering brokers and consumers to one LOAN MOD COMPANY, GREEN CREDIT!!!! Now that they are shut down and it is time for the new snake oil.
Ever hear of Mr. Mortgage? Well Krista and anyone reading this, Mr Mortgage left in 2008 for some of the same reasons. I heard this from some credible sources.
The links that Kritsa has provided and any consumer worth their salt would only have to check these links, the government documentation, complaints and obvious shell game is for everyone to see with their own two eyes.
What has Martin provided for us or consumers to research? Not crap! Just calling Krista and myself names and grasping at loan mod straws is all that he can do.
My company was NOT shut down, but I closed the doors because I saw back in 2008 (YES 2008) that this business was on its way down hill and that state and federal regulators were going to make sure that no one could process or offer loan modifications. I saw the writing on the wall long ago and decided to do what I do best and help homeowners online.
Sorry, but you’re a bit late to the business.
I have written on the subject since 2007 more than anyone in the world, I give away fee loan modification books, worked with NACA and Bruce Marks, marched in the Senate House -2008 in Washington DC, helped thousands in Connecticut, helped hundreds save their homes online for free since 2007, write helpful articles all day with my son and operate a free online forum with 19,000 homeowners.
I have been in the New York Times, LA Times Fox Business, BusiessWeek and quoted all over the world for my expertise in loan modifications and I can go on and on. What have you done or where have you been featured? I’m still looking on that one…..
And what have you done?
Promoted “trusted law firms” for cash. You are PATHETIC Martin for even trying to debate Krista and myself. So please stop while your SO NOT ahead.
As far as my criminal record goes. Yes, I do have one and have paid my dues long ago. I did my time for my stupidity with drinking, drugs and a terrible relationship. I did a year and a half in a drug rehabilitation center in Norco, Ca. and successfully graduated from the drug treatment program, and completed another 52 weeks once I got out in 2005. Since then I have not even so much got a ticket and have remarried with a beautiful wife and I have two new beautiful children.
Many people have done things or even committed crimes in their past and have never got caught. Whether that be smoking pot, fudging to the IRS or on your loan application. ALL these unseen and unheard crimes can land people in jail. I got caught for breaking the law and you know what?
IT WAS THE BEST THING THAT EVER HAPPENED TO ME AND MADE ME THE MAN I AM TODAY!
I promised God, myself and my family when I was in prison that I would never break the law, cheat or lie again to get ahead in life. I have stood by that promise and God has rewarded me and my family immensely for doing what is right.
You might want to try it some day Martin Andleman.
Sean Rutledge, Bar No. 255938, United Law Group
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Okay, first of all… oh boy, where to begin… I don’t think I have time… well… to be be quick and then I’ll come back later:
1. Whoever it is that claims that I offered to list him or her as a trusted loan modification firm is LYING. It is not true and it has NEVER happened. You want to call me directly on this or perhaps say it to my face, you sniveling nameless coward, my number is 714-904-2288 and that’s my cell… so call away. I will meet you anywhere and anytime. You continue to make accusations such as this and I will take whatever action I can think of… count on it.
It’s funny that people make such accusations without using their real name. No one has ever paid me to be a trusted loan modification firm and many have tried. Got it? Am I being clear enough.
On the Green Credit issue. Again… I’ve been assured that they’re closed and that not one client has been left in the lurch. I asked you if you actually knew of a client left in the lurch and you apparently do not. So, what’s the deal? Are you just making that stuff up about clients abandoned?
Listen guys… I’m not playing in the dirt. I call one person and they tell me about Moe and his criminal record… and apparently that his was the first modification company shut down… and I don’t care about any of that one way or the other. I was reading Moe a year ago and thought he was good and very informative. I still do. I thought Krista, what you do and know is good. And yet all you guys seem to want to do is make unfounded attacks on one person or another.
What’s wrong with you guys? Why don’t you do something productive with your knowledge of mortgages… people need help, not idiots making stupid baseless claims about things they know nothing about. I’m embarrassed to even be responding. I don’t even want to have a trusted listing. I wish the state would do a better job and I wouldn’t have to have such a thing. But the state isn’t and you guys aren’t helping either.
Listen… Moe, Krista… and whoever the liar is that claimed I offered to charge him to be a trusted firm… if you want to communicate with me about something, why don’t you gather up the courage to pick up the phone like adults do. I’m happy to talk, happy to help… happy to do anything productive.
But enough wasting time with this kind of crap…