(Source: WSVN) Denny Dorcey, a master craftsman with a knack for restoring everything from vintage cars to home fixtures, was stunned when he received a letter from the City of Oakland Park notifying him of a staggering $1 million fine for code violations committed by the previous owner of his house. The fines, which amounted to $1,097,400, were for minor issues such as overgrown weeds and a cluttered carport, but the kicker was that these violations had occurred a decade ago — before Denny even purchased the home in foreclosure.
“I just couldn’t believe it,” Dorcey said, recalling the moment he opened the letter. “It was like having a bomb dropped on me.”
The letter stated that Denny was responsible for the fines, even though he had bought the house in 2014. He had been assured by the title company that there were no existing liens or fines on the property at the time of purchase, and Oakland Park had never contacted him about any outstanding penalties until now.
According to Denny, the city only discovered the fines after reviewing old files, and the issue was suddenly thrust into his lap, with the city suggesting he negotiate a settlement with a collection agency.
“Obviously, I couldn’t afford a $1 million fine,” Denny explained.
Faced with the possibility of losing everything, Denny turned to Help Me Howard with Patrick Fraser for advice. Legal expert Howard Finkelstein confirmed that, while government agencies are not required to inform new property owners of outstanding fines or liens, Denny had legal grounds for relief because of the foreclosure. “When Denny bought the property in foreclosure, it wiped out any existing fines or liens that the city had,” Finkelstein explained.
After the Help Me Howard team intervened, they contacted the city, which quickly reviewed the case and found that the property had not been brought into compliance before the foreclosure, and the city had not been notified of the foreclosure. As a result, the city removed the $1 million fine and wiped out the lien.
Denny was overjoyed with the outcome. “Without you guys, they would have destroyed my life completely,” he said. “There’s no doubt in my mind.”
Grateful for the resolution, Denny continued to focus on his passion for restoration, even showing off another car he had restored — a 1960 Corvette.
While Denny’s case was resolved in his favor, experts recommend that prospective homeowners always conduct a lien search before purchasing a property to avoid hidden surprises. For a relatively small fee, a professional search can save a future homeowner from major financial headaches.
As for Denny, the restoration of his home and his peace of mind is now complete, thanks to Help Me Howard.
If you find yourself in a similar predicament, remember: Help Me Howard is here to restore your peace of mind and help you solve your legal issues, no matter how big or small.
