South Florida Woman’s Home Almost Lost Due to Renovation Program
A South Florida woman, Debra Davis, signed up for a state program called PACE to renovate her home, but instead of saving money, she claims it almost cost her her home.
The Program
The PACE program provides funding to make homes energy-efficient and safer from hurricanes. Loans are paid off through a yearly assessment on a homeowner’s property taxes. Debra was pre-approved for a loan and assigned a contractor, Moshe Vakneen from Diaz & Russell Construction Company.
The Problem
Debra met with Moshe Vakneen, but she didn’t want to work with him. She told her project manager she wanted a different contractor. However, before she could find someone new, she received a text from Moshe Vakneen saying that she had signed a contract with his company and that if she didn’t work with them, they would put a notice to lien on her house.
The Notice to Lien
Debra received a notice to lien for $162,000, the estimated cost for materials. The notice said that a lien would be put on her house if she didn’t pay Diaz & Russell Construction Company the amount owed. Debra reported the company to PACE and withdrew her loan application.
The Investigation
Debra’s project manager also reported having problems with the company. Iliana Fernandez, a former employee of Diaz & Russell Construction Company, told 7 Investigates that she had been having issues with her boss, Moshe Vakneen, and quit. She started receiving threats and a fake video was sent to her, claiming she was wanted by the police.
The Resolution
Moshe Vakneen told 7 Investigates that he would drop the lien notice on Debra’s home. The owner of Diaz & Russell Construction Company stated that Moshe Vakneen no longer works for or is affiliated with the company.
Conclusion
Debra’s experience highlights the importance of carefully reviewing contracts and being aware of potential scams. Homeowners should research contractors thoroughly and ensure that they are working with reputable companies.
FAQs
Q: What is the PACE program?
A: The PACE program provides funding to make homes energy-efficient and safer from hurricanes.
Q: How do homeowners pay back the loan?
A: Homeowners pay back the loan through a yearly assessment on their property taxes.
Q: What happened to Debra Davis?
A: Debra Davis signed up for the PACE program to renovate her home, but she claims it almost cost her her home due to a contractor’s threats and a notice to lien.
Q: What did Moshe Vakneen do?
A: Moshe Vakneen, a contractor from Diaz & Russell Construction Company, threatened Debra Davis and sent her a notice to lien for $162,000.
Q: What did Iliana Fernandez say?
A: Iliana Fernandez, a former employee of Diaz & Russell Construction Company, reported having issues with her boss, Moshe Vakneen, and quitting. She started receiving threats and a fake video was sent to her, claiming she was wanted by the police.
