Originally posted by @Crystal Smith:@Shequann Burrwell I won't comment on whether this was a scam or not but I will provide some rules of thumb.  1.  

@Crystal Smith Thanks for the welcome.

@Crystal Smith Thank you for the great list, that should keep me busy for a while!  

can you spell your crystal ball? 

This means setting crystal clear criteria so your agent can confidently find what you need.

Analysis paralysis, reading headlines, trying to "call the bottom of the market" -- you name it - it ends up being a game of you trying to hold a crystal ball and make decisions. 

No clue as to what prudent lending is about or what is deemed predatory lending.The most important aspect is finding one with a crystal ball, they must look into the future and apply prudent lending assumptions, weigh probabilities od a borrower being able and willing to perform in the future, that means or includes meeting any refinance obligation, this is where most fail.Putting someone in a financing contract where it is impossible to perform or unlikely under their circumstances is predatory lending.The thinking is that the LO takes the liability, not really true as the note or obligation can be "crammed down" or reduced or totally eliminated, a note holder can lose big time.

Food everywhere on the countertop and sugar crystals from soft drinks everywhere. 

Every HOA is different, so you'll want to be crystal clear about what is and is not allowed for that complex. 

@Crystal Rubaine I know university park and the south suburbs of chicago very well.