While not the primary reason, mortgage fraud has certainly played a role in the current mortgage crisis and has had an impact on real estate markets across the country. It's easy to understand how a naive homebuyer could become a victim of mortgage fraud, but don't think you're too smart to fall for a scam -- even sophisticated investors are at risk. According to the FBI, losses due to mortgage fraud are $4-$6 billion annually.

For tips from the FBI on how to avoid becoming a victim of mortgage fraud, visit http://www.fbi.gov/page2/august08/mortgagefraud_081408.html