Ameriquest Mortgage offers settlement to consumers

Ameriquest Mortgage Co. has offered $325 million to settle accusations of predatory lending in 49 states. Consumers in Wisconsin will receive over $2.7 million of the total. The company was accused of using high-pressure tactics and deception to sell mortgages to homeowners interested in refinancing.

Ameriquest is the nation’s largest sub-prime lender, offering loans to consumers with poor credit. Those mortgages are usually at higher interest rates.

Ameriquest has denied all allegations, but is agreeing to new standards that are meant to prevent the alleged unfair and deceptive practices. The new standards include not paying incentives to employees who secure mortgages with prepayment penalties or other fees.

The settlement must still be approved by the state courts.

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