Homeowners: NC builder took money, left unfinished homes

[@QueenCityNews]

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Multiple homeowners claim NC builder took bank draws, cash and left their homes unfinished. For more on this story, head here: www.qcnews.com/news/investigations/unfinished-business-multiple-homeowners-claim-nc-builder-took-bank-draws-cash-and-left-their-homes-unfinished/

[@markgulbranson-qe3ky]

There is a way to get what there owed but they need to talk to the Federal AG & Federal Court system and have the cotto's house , vehicles & everything seized and auctioned off to pay back the people who scammed . Also why didn't they go to prison for theft by swindle . I am starting to think that AG guy was paid off to look the other way . He might have got the money him self but maybe in campaign funds ? But there is something fishy about this whole house deals & the cotto's

[@erikhopkins9488]

dude is a complete CLOWN!

[@loriflynn78]

@@markgulbranson-qe3ky I agree.

[@mattyghost3409]

​@@markgulbranson-qe3kySounds like China lol

[@beachchillin]

​@markgulbranson-qe3ky Also aren't aware the real estate agent is commonly paid early in the process so his wife likely received the commission. This whole situation is just dirty.

[@seahagkeylover]

That man deserves 20 years in prison and the bank had a person that was committing FRAUD ALSO

[@frankchris07]

He needs to go swimming

[@RonnyMorgan-z7y]

Us bank of my STATE. 😢😢😢😢

[@TOCC50]

His truck is bigger than his house

[@erikhopkins9488]

he should be JAILED!

[@LouMontana-wc7nr]

Typical Trump supporters🇷🇺🐖‼️

[@matthurley921]

Why hasn’t the state seized his property and sssets and actually investigate this..

[@geedee38]

With that existing lien $705000 right? He designed this scam and name changes to get cash and keep gaining with no effects of that lien. 🤷‍♀️ idk it’s a sad situation for the consumers

[@MrBeard-ig5zc]

Da. His stuff is held in another entity. Probably his mom.

[@jwayneair]

Because Stein is too busy campaigning.

[@saranelson9146]

Unfortunately, it’s the fox watching the hen house with contractors. The laws are empty promises and it’s easy to take advantage of consumers unchecked.

[@Capt083]

One name Josh Stein. That's why. Don't vote for him.

[@Mr.Free2Play]

The bank is the leader of these frauds. This is coming from the top. This bank needs to be investigated & so does the contractor.

[@tirkentube]

Yep. And he knows it, that's why he threw shade back at the bank. Remember the loan officer who is involved on AT LEAST 8 of the UNFINISHED homes (and 10 or more including the now-finished homes), and admitted that she KNEW him personally? But, she "wasn't related to him or his business." She just happened to handle all of his and his wife's clients. Sure, okay. But, i wonder how those payments were made without the necessary inspections? Probably because he had an INSIDER AT THE BANK. Then we find out where the money went: To the judgement from puerto rico 2019, filed through NC state so he couldn't escape it.

[@denisecintas4954]

This is a corrupt state all around. There is no way I would even visit this radical corrupt red state. Hypocrites.😮😮😮

[@ralphjessee2688]

@@tirkentube Exactly.

[@joannporter3819]

Most definitely! This was an inside job with the bank and the builders.

[@Mikefngarage]

this is happening all over the east. many of the business owners are foreigners and collect a lot of money, Dont pay their trades and leave the country. One of the reasons we need better boarders and immigration policies.

[@ollieandson]

I’m a retired Police Chief and want to give a shout out to this Investigator Reporter and to Queen City News. This investigation news story was thirty minutes long and that is a long news piece which tells me there was a lot of time that was devoted into putting this together. This is probably one of the best news investigative stories I have watched in a very long time. I’m fairly certain because of the attention and interest from this story and the amazing job that was done in exposing these corrupt contractors. The fact that the State Attorney has dropped the ball, the Sheriff’s department dropped the ball. It seems like there was some internal fraud going on at the credit union. We aren’t looking at just state charges here we could be looking at federal. Maybe the feds after seeing this story might be interested in looking into this as well. This is egg on the Governors face too. The incompetence of his AG and his state. Then the guy has the nerve to blame Covid and bring God into this. I don’t think he wants to ask God what he thinks about all this. I’m just saying. Not to pass judgment and all. Well in the end. Great work Queen News, to the poor people who are struggling with this ordeal. I’m sorry you’re going through this. My prayers are thoughts with you.

[@OmarIbnSayyid]

Agreed 100%. I'm also a licensed real estate broker with eXp Realty, the same company that Joy Catto is affiliated with. I guarantee that this situation will eventually cause her to lose her real estate license or at least get suspended. This whole thing is highly suspicious. Bringing God into this matter is truly disturbing. After watching the Attorney General's response, I've lost the last bit of trust I had in our government agencies, without exception.

[@gulfcoastsunset5879]

Definitely internal fraud going on 100 %. Just like there was a TON of internal fraud going on in the Alex Murdough case with the high ups at the banks.

[@andreavandekleut6379]

can,t the {people who are not now getting a home , let them foreclose and the city will have to sell the "home" for over 300K ( for dirt). and see how they like it ,

[@Chris-em1bc]

Thank u for your service!

[@ScottyLo]

All of the people should get together and file a class action lawsuit against him. Theirs strength in numbers.

[@rotryguy1]

No one will see a penny of their money. These are criminals not builders. That money is spent or hidden well in preparation for this very day.

[@zachwak]

Jody Barr is so good. This is pure gold. Don't ever let local investigative journalism die out!

[@JodyBarrInvestigates]

Dang, Zach…thanks for saying that!

[@lauriesmith5008]

She is evil. She is,living the high life . Don’t tell me she didn’t know.

[@chocolatequeen5953]

The journalist are doing way more than the authorities, who are supposed to protect consumers! That guy Mario is too blatant and should have already been arrested, it seems like he found a loop hole and is just milking it , he and his wife are such good thieving liars !! 🙄

[@OCgraftedin77]

@@chocolatequeen5953. Yeah, they must be related to the Bidens!…🤬

[@lindacurtis3513]

Is Josh Stein still in any Government Office here in NC. ?​@chocolatequeen5953

[@THopkins7]

They need to pull both the Cotto's licenses & prosecute them. They need to pay the homeowners back.

[@JonSmith531]

There's no money to pay back. That's long gone.

[@pastryshack551]

These people get to live in their beautiful homes a and the poor perso n has to take an incredible loss. I have given up on people because there are useless. If I can't have my house, he and his theifing wife would be in the same position

[@alexs1429]

@@JonSmith531easy take over their assets and sell them to pay back those customer he defrauded. He has a few expensive vehicles in that driveway

[@JonSmith531]

@@alexs1429 you could take it all and it only cover 20% of what's owed. It's gone.

[@JonSmith531]

@@alexs1429 lol. That money is long gone. They stole millions from people. Vacations, living expenses, probably used it for other ponzi schemes. It's gone.

[@andreware7638]

Banks violated contracts by not confirming work was done woth customers. All thise customers deserve refunds.

[@arresthillary9502]

refund for what? they arent making payments on the unfinished construction. he defrauded the bank, not the consumer

[@stillkickin9957]

They were making pmts​@@arresthillary9502

[@howlinwulf]

But they are stuck with payments ,your not seeing whats going on here. Is that you dude?​@@arresthillary9502

[@TheAnantaSesa]

@@arresthillary9502 I thought they had a mortgage and were making payments BEFORE completed bc that's the added cost of having a home built for you. But yes it sounds like the bank isn't supposed to release funds until each stage is complete. I wonder if there is any deadline for construction to be finished by. Def doesn't make sense to pay for an uninhibitable house.

[@DonaldMark-ne7se]

I believe the retirement crisis will get even worse. Many struggle to save due to low wages, rising prices, and exorbitant rents. With homeownership becoming unattainable for middle-class Americans, they may not have a home to rely on for retirement either.

[@JacquelinePerrira]

Got it! Buying stocks during a recession when prices are down could be a good move. You might get them at a lower price and sell later when they go up. Just do your homework and be aware of the risks before diving in!

[@Jamessmith-12]

That's awesome! Investing in stocks with a reliable trading system can lead to great outcomes. It's fantastic that you've been working with a financial advisor for a year now. Starting with less than $200K and being just $19,000 away from making half a million in profit is impressive! Keep up the good work!

[@kevinmarten]

Mind if I ask you to recommend this particular coach you using their service?

[@Jamessmith-12]

Carol Vivian Constable is the licensed fiduciary I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment..

[@kevinmarten]

She appears to be well-educated and well-read. I ran a Google search for her name and came across her website; thank you for sharing.

[@MyHighHorse]

At least the AG’s office can admit they’re useless. I would replace them asap.

[@esau5530]

Everyone involved in taking these people’s money should rot in jail.

[@nancyfahey7518]

Prison.

[@AskRemy]

they need concrete shoes

[@JustMe-gs9xi]

but they're not going to,,,,, that how deep the corruption goes

[@eleanoreagly4844]

Need to make the Cottos refund the $$ they were paid to do the job they contracted to do and show an accounting of the $$$. It makes no difference if Cotto paid any rents, etc. as that was not his responsibility. He had contracts to be responsible for building homes. The Mrs. Cotto was not entitled to any $ because she had to have know of the fraud her husband was doing. I am not having a stom house built because of fraudsters like Cotto. Purchased a new, ready to move into house to avoid delays and overcosts etc. Also, have a good inspector go over the work, and even then in one of 3 bathrooms the tub hot and cold water are reversed with hot being on the right and cold on the left and to fix I am told the wall behind which is one of the 3 shower walls would have to be torn out.

[@Jblaze024]

So the saying goes, you'll own nothing and like it.

[@Allaiya.]

What an absolutely worthless attorney general! Josh Stein needs to go. He isn’t doing his job. This isn’t just one house. It’s multiple houses and they can’t even be bothered to look to see that.

[@altheacbarnes2522]

Josh Stein is running for governor - and he is a demoncrat watch the people vote against themselves like they always do in blue areas...

[@firstname6208]

and he wants to be our governor, another worthless demokrat

[@thyslop1737]

And Stein is now the Democratic nominee for Governor.

[@Dolly-Days]

He looks as if he just wanna look all pretty and clean doing nothing but soaking up the spotlight. That's the vibes I got from the interaction with him and Jody Barr. Let me tell you something about Mr. Jody Barr he is one of the finest investigators out there. He does exceptional work and it shows! If we had more like him a lot could be brought to life for many to see! Thank you Jody Barr!!!

[@shekharmoona544]

These stories have been going on since before the pandemic.

[@wannabemedontu]

How is it that easy to steal people's money and just be so chill about it but absolutely no agency going after this guy

[@Valueshooter]

Yeah, its sad, every single chain from bank to local government to police failed.

[@MonkeyMind69]

@@Valueshooter ...Didn't fail. People need to understand that these things are being done deliberately. The Crooks are running the show ...from the banks, to the government, to the police. People are just financial cattle to them, and will continue to be until people learn to see the system for what it is.

[@tirkentube]

at the very end of the video we find out that the North Carolina District Attorney is going after him criminally.

[@JayFit366]

This whole system we live under is rigged & I hope Captain Planet comes & saves us.

[@JonSmith531]

Buyer beware

[@CoreyChambersLA]

If the lender is connected to the fraudulent construction company, then the lender must also be sued in court.

[@TheAnantaSesa]

26:29 makes it sound like connected or not, the lender dispersed funds to the wrong place so the contractor refused to do more work until he got paid for already inspected work.

[@thebohomom]

Bless you Queen City News for covering this story. You're bringing hope and possibly justice to these people❤

[@jeffreysronce1411]

I live across the street from this mess. I'm in construction. This guy contacted us about digging footings on these jobs when all the land was first cleared like four years ago. We knew as soon as we met him he was not the type of person we like to do work for. Could tell he was not very experienced in construction management. Just a talker. Trying to sell himself by telling us how many jobs he had coming up. Hope the best for the homeowners that have been afected by this conman. But the court systems are not much help in this situation unless you have lots of money for lawyers. Helped a homeowner with a problem similar to this took like three years of court and never really but a judgement against him. Makes all of us contractors that try to do best for our homeowners look bad. Could all be avoided by get references and looking at work they have finished, and talking to homeowners they have built for. Anyone with a problem providing that is red flag to stay away.

[@JSMCPN]

I had to overthrow our developer-abused water district (a local government) and notify the County that we're not selling any more water taps in order to put a stop to shoddy construction and unsustainable population growth. The developer is still harassing us, even after the County Attorney expelled them from the district board.

[@americaksushantkinazarse5747]

I want to help Lisa Labelle, if someone can provide me her information, I cannot find her online

[@MeBihhhh]

I also live across the street and totally agree. He contacted me and I said “nope step off”

[@buckeyeg4888]

Sue the AG

[@buckeyeg4888]

Sue the Sheriff as well

[@wellness285]

This report needs greater attention on major media!

[@anaychaker7344]

Agree !! ✅✅✅

[@Sjwolosz321]

Building homes is a massive part of this economy of course . Been building homes for 43 years , Even got my GC license but not savvy enough to play these reindeer games . It is a major problem .

[@driveyoutransportation4394]

To Warn people

[@glennjeffers9692]

Like the government spending

[@normbograham]

The bank blamed the homeowners. That's not how due diligence works. And the contractor has $150,000 in toys in his driveway, while he explained he's not to blame.

[@craigschepers714]

death by misadventure??

[@jeihka1]

This is horrible but homeowners do have some responsibilities. In PR a lot of mainlanders have come to buy "cheap homes" raising the real estate property cost without doing research, we warned them that buying a house that quick here is not normal and comes with a catch and they accused us of racist. Now the catch (FRAUD) is showing up. Illegal property titles, no construction zone infrastructure (NO INSURANCE and can't sue the government nor the bank or realtor). Houses sold with owners alive. Homes with massive debts in property tax and still legally on the original owner names because the owner or inherents are alive. Is a circus but hey they know better. The do this worldwide 🇺🇸 citizens are not the smartest

[@VForShort]

@@jeihka1I can second this. Lived in Cayey for 2 years, I came across so many Americans who got themselves in serious trouble, some spending their life savings on props that they legally cannot occupy.

[@CameronFussner]

The fact that there is already an excessive amount of demand awaiting its absorption, despite how everyone is frightened and calling the crash, is another reason why it is less likely to occur that way. 2008 saw no one, at least not the broad public, making this forecast, as I'll explain below. The ownership rate was noted to have peaked in 2004 in the other comment. Having previously peaked in the second quarter of 2020, we are currently at the median level. Between 2008 and 2012, it dropped by 3%, and by the second quarter of 2020, it had dropped from 68 to 65.

[@Franklin-gq4si]

Investing in both real estate and stocks can be prudent choices, particularly when backed by a robust trading strategy that can navigate you through prosperous periods.

[@BernardFrederick-tk7un]

Don't worry, you're not doing anything wrong. The key is gaining the knowledge to succeed in a challenging market. With the right skills and experience, anyone can thrive and earn a high salary, even in tough conditions. Keep learning and growing!

[@foreverlaura-fq4eu]

@@BernardFrederick-tk7un Recently, I've been considering the possibility of speaking with consultants. I need guidance because I'm an adult, but I'm not sure if their services would be all that helpful.

[@BernardFrederick-tk7un]

Her name is Annette Marie Holt can't divulge much. Most likely, the internet should have her basic info, you can research if you like.

[@CharlesArthur-fq5sx]

Thank you for sharing, I must say, Annette appears to be quite knowledgeable. After coming across her web page, I went through her resume and it was quite impressive. I reached out and scheduled a call.

[@crocpa]

Sue the attorney general in federal court. Get an injunction.

[@tommielee8]

Suing is not an option. He can be criminally charged, censured, recalled, impeached or voted out. The easiest and quickest maneuver is to exploit his/her shortcomings. In this case, his negligence. Horrible politician.

[@DRventura333]

Someone should investigate if any of these companies also filed for and received PPP COVID money.

[@eustacemcgoodboy9702]

Of course they did. That was the intent of these programs, to keep the rich rich and the poor poor.

[@dcg590]

@@eustacemcgoodboy9702no. If you stay poor it’s your own fault. Dont blame others people for your failure.

[@eustacemcgoodboy9702]

@@dcg590 Victim blaming. What a ridiculous assertion. This is why the global South is rising against you.

[@r0ckymarie]

They 1,000% did. Probably millions.

[@benben6054]

He bought everything he needed and is living the good life he knows the systems

[@Technotranceism]

True, and it's now coming back to bite him in the butt.

[@TOCC50]

His truck isn’t big enough

[@rebecca9529]

He will reap what he sowed it's always coming back

[@jenjen7369]

Why couldn't all these homeowners put a LIEN on his property? Why isn't he in a jail for fraud and working without the proper license let alone liability insurance and bond

[@ucanflyit64]

he put all the property in his wife's name and she wasn't on the LLC. These crooks know what they're doing.

[@jenjen7369]

@ucanflyit64 why couldn't his wife then be liable. She was the realtor misrepresentation on her part so she is also at fault. And what are the laws in that state? WA, doesn't matter if the husband isn't on it, he would inherit it if she passed or common law assets

[@ucanflyit64]

@@jenjen7369 We're all exhausted on this. We've tried every avenue. For civil judgements we have to wait inline behind all the people he screwed over too. The only ones that seem to be making money are the lawyers. He has civil judgements against him and just doesn't pay. Many of us have filed criminal charges too so we're hoping eventually they'll be in jail. There's a special place in hell reserved for these 2.

[@jenjen7369]

@@ucanflyit64 Really do hope you get justice

[@ucanflyit64]

@@jenjen7369 Thank you. My wife and I have always tried to go through life leaving people better off than when we met them so this whole scam that ruins people's lives is just horrific for us.

[@wango556]

Everyone knows exactly what they are doing. But they all don’t know anything now. The banks,the builders, the realtors, the developers, the loan officers, the dispersal agents, the INSPECTORS, the attorney general, are all guilty and knew exactly what they were doing. For the bank to have the nerve to say it’s the homeowners fault is crazy.

[@Carrjacked]

9:46 this couple broke my heart. I wish I could hug them.

[@jodirook71]

VOTE for people that advocate for you!

[@Terrie-W]

Cotto committed theft. He needs to go to prison for a long time. Maybe the inmates can wipe that smile off his face.

[@yomamaplayzvideogamez693]

All people involved with Cotto needs to be locked up too, this is sick!

[@eustacemcgoodboy9702]

America is a nation of thieves. Everyone is stealing all the time. Well, there are victims and there are alpha king dogs on top. Choose.

[@jman2415]

Cotto is full of bs he needs to be charged

[@Technotranceism]

Her remark about receiving commission for an uncompleted home, speaks loudly of her. Should a car salesman get commission, for selling you an incomplete car?

[@jeffparkhurst8607]

Non-Whites are immune from criminal liability in Zogland.

[@stephenayriss5049]

You are doing gods work and actual real reporting. Bless you and your network

[@tripleeathletics]

These investigatory stories done by Jody are so addicting to watch and are always very well done. Jody, I think you would be great on something like 60 minutes or 20/20! Keep up the great work! 👍

[@DovZeev]

I'm astounded by how calm amd logical some of the victims are. If I were in their situation I would be freaking out.

[@SolorockinOne]

Right. I know people that will send you to meet God for a lot less.

[@arresthillary9502]

they just stopped making the payments on the loans. they dont care. the bank is taking the losses

[@seahagkeylover]

Exactly I would have some friends from the hood pay him a visit

[@BrandonLayMusic]

They prob have lived on an emotional rollercoaster

[@JasonDeBates]

Truly shameful behavior by Mario, Joy, the bank and the AG’s office. This guy is a scam artist ripping off people with no remorse. How is he able to get away with this without any repercussions? Mario and his wife should both be in jail!

[@ronaldjones8531]

He definitely paid off people to or had them share in the profits from the scam including the government agencies

[@ashlaunicaalpari4584]

People get away with scams like these all the time and the only people that suffer the repercussions after are those they scammed. These peoples lives are over…. Their credit destroyed, possible bankruptcy after foreclosure etc. Try retiring on no savings, ruined credit and no home. This is devastating life crushing theft.

[@ozymandias4988]

The way that the wife downplayed her role in all of this and laughed was absolutely wicked and very telling.

[@ucanflyit64]

She knew everything that was going on and participated in it. Liar, Liar! She calls herself a good Christian.

[@cocococop6082]

It happens. Sometimes you just don't know. See women who husbands were down lows or murders

[@cfoster6804]

​@cocococop6082 She saw those houses weren't getting done. Her husband wasn't even hiding it. Either she was in on it or she is severely stupid.

[@fm12345him]

Phenomenal reporting!

[@TradeWynn65]

You need to vote out that Attorney General

[@Heavencloud]

he's running for governor. democrat

[@robinbeveridge7741]

But your alternate choice is clearly the better one so govote for Robinson ​@Heavencloud

[@cfoster6804]

​@@Heavencloud Oh Lord

[@mteevie1609]

Sounds like the whole thing is an insider scam. From the bank to the contractors everyone was getting a piece on the scam. There a lot of employees and insiders that needs to go to jail.

[@bmunsky]

The only way this could work if Mr Cotto had someone at the bank working with him, including lender, inspector,

[@arresthillary9502]

@@bmunsky yup

[@marcusharris2401]

Exactly

[@slapskate]

The messed up thing is if he wanted to he had access to the $ to complete the homes. Everyone still makes $. But he's so greedy he just takes the money lent for the home construction & keeps it. This seems like such a dumb scam with so many paper trails to you! 🤔

[@snsr20]

What a great investigative story. Jody Barr - Sir, you are a hero. In today’s world not many reporters spend time and energy to go to the root of the story, and bring facts to us. Kudos to Queen City News and Mr. Barr for bringing such stories to us. Great work!

[@Diddy_Do_It2037]

More like a short documentary

[@armontecalvo]

If Walmart involves police for petty shoplifting, charges are brought. But people robbed of 10’s of thousand’s, no prosecution. Guess you have to be a corporation, donating to politicians to get justice.

[@Scriptorsilentum]

surprise.

[@UADOS11]

That's the scam. Corporations have free reign... citizens just have to take it and shut their mouths

[@vicleft5987]

Will need an update on this for sure

[@TOMRYANLUKE]

thank you so much for posting this. It helps the public to avoid such bad contractors such as this. thank you.

[@janp3331]

This was a well investigated piece. Thank you for shedding a light on this.

[@HoneySuckle123]

Jody is one of a kind. 👑

[@JodyBarrInvestigates]

Thank you!

[@JodyBarrInvestigates]

@@HoneySuckle123Thank ya, ma’am 👍🏻

[@RichmondBaker]

Great Reporting Queen City News! Really good job. Go and get them Lisa Labelle! A lawyer should help her.

[@Oletechiegirl]

How did the bank release money to this company without any inspections? $300,000 with nothing but a foundation? How is that possible? The bank does have some fault in this.

[@78vette11]

Exactly

[@TheJohnebey]

a cash account is not so questioning.

[@arresthillary9502]

because the bank doesnt start getting paid till their is an actual loan

[@kchal0]

@@arresthillary9502that’s not true. Usually construction loans are interest only balloon payment loans. Meaning during the process every payment is interest only, 100% profit for the bank. Then at the end of the process they ask for the full principle amount in full. If you can’t pay it then they refinance it into a 30 year mortgage.

[@bradmiller6507]

Uh, it wasn’t a bank, it was a credit union. They have no transparency or accountability.

[@Thanos0001]

All these people got paid and the homeowners are left holding the bag. The banks, realtors, lawyers, general contractors, and even the AG are to blame for this. Truly despicable.

[@lovinbluegrass]

Mark Robinson for Governor 2024. We don't need another person in office who doesn't work for the people who voted him into office. Every NC voter needs to see this video. Vote against Josh Stein.

[@dhunter1423]

AMEN--WHAT A JOKE💯‼️ deb in SC😯😯 Surely Ethics Violations have been Charged against Josh Stein: How does he Sleep at Night⁉️⁉️⁉️

[@attornurse1]

Mark Robinson is crazy . His theory on women , reproductive rights and the hatred he spews against Jews , minority’s etc is horrific . Josh Stein for Gov .

[@Whoddathunk]

Banks always blames the consumer for their mistakes.....

[@jackjohnson9449]

I would bet that Cotto never paid Blackman. Mario and Joy Cotto are both crooks and should be in prison.

[@Rebecca-ci3zc]

So Cotto brings up COVID. Did he apply for, and was he granted a PPP loan? I’d love to see this checked into.

[@JonSmith531]

He definitely did. Probably millions.

[@JonSmith531]

This is open record. You can search his company and find it.

[@ReginaDillard]

I think we all know the answer to that. smh

[@JoycePerry-b6k]

This is horrific! Everyone that did nothing for this lady should be exposed and resign. The developer should be locked up and judgements against him! Just sickening.

[@izagdlife]

This administration is putting many families in difficult situations. A lot of people are financially struggling to live, put a roof over their head and put food on the table. Things are getting worse these days, if you don't find means of multiplying your money you might wake up a day to realise you didn't plan well for yourself and family…

[@rougeur]

I agree with you and I believe that the secret to financial stability is having the right investment ideas to enable you earn more money, I don’t know who agrees with me but either way I recommend either real estate and stocks..

[@charlotterayeee]

I’ve been diligently working, saving and contributing towards early retirement and financial freedom, but since covid outbreak, the economy so far has caused my portfolio to underperform, do I keep contributing to my 401k or look at alternative sectors to meet my goals?

[@izagdlife]

@@charlotterayeee Understanding your financial needs and making effective decisions is very essential. If I could advise you, you should seek the help of a financial advisor. For the record, working with one has been the best for my finances...

[@charlotterayeee]

@@izagdlife How can one find a verifiable financial planner? I would not mind looking up the professional that helped you. I will be retiring in two years and I might need some management on my much larger portfolio. Don't want to take any chances.

[@izagdlife]

@@charlotterayeee *Mr Gary Mason Brooks* is the licensed advisor I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment.

[@p1ca550]

The attorney general just ruined his career, what an idiot

[@kat.5822]

The laws were written by Republicans who support wealthy builders. The attorney general is not to blame here. Builders have the right of way in NC! This is not political! Plus, Lincoln county is 72% republican. This issue is a local issue.

[@ridingtheroad185]

@@kat.5822 You talk politics then say this isn't political...? The AG is the law enforcer for the state. This is fraud and there is laws against it, he just needs to do the work.

[@traynham]

ItS rEpUbLiCInZ fAuLt😢🤡

[@toddj9548]

@@kat.5822 Oh right! It's all the republicans fault. What was I thinking?

[@whereisthedollar]

@@kat.5822 Bingo$$$$$.

[@mgkelly3389]

Wow!! Real reporting!! I’ve so missed seeing a reporter chase down a story like this! I hope you will stay with it in case the district attorney can do something for these people. Thank you for your efforts!! We need more like you!

[@ucanflyit64]

Jody Barr is awesome and the new builder that rescued a lot of these people, Blue wave Custom Homes, also deserves a lot of credit.

[@mgkelly3389]

@@ucanflyit64 They certainly do. The honest guys have an extra hurdle to overcome because of the thieves. I really hope they all find some justice.

[@Whodeltit]

That woman is just as guilty as he is

[@wanderingyoutube]

Thank you for the hard work that you have put in in helping to shine a light on this issue

[@suthernbella]

God bless you Jody for taking this on. Prayers to all of the families affected.

[@NerdsWorldNYC]

"He has $300,000 and I'm extremely concerned.' What.....no ..He HAS $300,000 of my MONEY and y'all are about to HAVE PROBLEMS!! Follow and record this man, stores,cars,etc!!!!

[@GOLDIELIVE24]

Something would have happen to him

[@rissaheads6091]

Now if it was Trump it would be ok … so why not this guy?

[@GOLDIELIVE24]

@@rissaheads6091 something would happen to him to idc who it is if it was my 300k best believe anybody could have got it trump biden they momma whoever im not even political why bring trump up lol

[@jman2415]

AG stein needs to be removed he serves the people

[@Nate-vf2js]

He can’t he’s republican he can do no wrong

[@yeetmama]

​@@Nate-vf2jsInstead of just saying factually inaccurate, stupid stuff, GOOGLE is a click away. Hes NOT a Republican, he's. Jewish Democrat. (long form for unscrupulous weasel criminal)

[@nancyfahey7518]

💙💙💙💙💙

[@cynthiawoodburn977]

What a great investigation! You have done a great job. I hope you keep following this story.

[@attornurse1]

Thank you for reporting this story

[@GarC170]

It’s a coincidence that the woman responsible for authorizing all those draws happened to work at both banks… oh ok makes sense…..

[@Julia-e1e]

Mario and Joy should be in prison. Crazy to blame anyone but the criminals scamming people. Hard earned american dollars completely stolen. And attorney general needs to do something.

[@Praisethesunson]

Scammers scamming is how the contractor got a lifted ford super duty and suburban house. The modern American dream.

[@ucanflyit64]

The AG is a useless dirtbag who's also lying about clearing the backlog of rape kits not processed.

[@rocheclip]

This is why a builder being bonded is so important. People underestimate being bonded in such a large financial transaction. If i had the money to build my own home, i would demand a builder be bonded as part of the contract. If that builder doesnt finish, the bond insures I get my money back. Builders HATE hearing they must be bonded, but a bond is insurance against him taking my money and running. I am a property insurance adjuster here in NC and builders can get away with so many things and never get held responsible. The system is designed to allow them to dissolve their business after shady practices and pop up somewhere else under a different name.

[@hotpuppy1]

A guy I used to work with had a girl friend with a son who wanted to be a contractor. He bought a lot and gave the kid $40,000 to start. The kid bought a truck and a motor cycle>>no work except the basement hole was dug. That would be two bodies that would not be found if it was me.

[@mdavis3262]

This is what real journalism looks like

[@natej6671]

The bank or whatever lending agency needs to be sued too or held accountable. The bank claims that the borrower is responsible for monitoring work progress. If that's the case, the homeowner would also have to sign off on the draws as well.

[@helenmodiselle6795]

Totally agree how does the bank take contractors word that work is done & just pay the money without them at least finding out from their clients as they are not doing inspecting themselves. Bank needs to clarify who is their "client"

[@ReginaDillard]

Bingo!!

[@vennie951]

I hope Mario Cotto gets a year in prison for every single tear shed by those cheated out of their money and dreams.

[@Ambience88]

Now that’s alotta tears

[@thepressurepack3777]

People think drug dealers are bad, no. Its contractors

[@thecurator2626]

Or a year for every dollar stolen

[@bigbeefjoedaddy]

he wont serve one day in prison. Police wont even go after him

[@soulheaven9243]

sitting there with that giant truck and slingshot in the driveway..he should have everything seized

[@eremitehugs7986]

Wow! This came up at random on my KZbin feed and I started watching and got very engaged. I'm not even exactly sure who the heck Queen City News is but this is one grade A investigative report. This is exactly the kind of Journalism we need in society and it shows the best of what they can do to bring some light to the wrongs and injustices that tangibly affect people's lives. Well done!

[@user-RobLouis]

QC, thanks for investing resources into this story/investigation.

[@MW-greatteacher10]

THIS was/is an excellent realestate investigative report. Unethical transactions and dealings are happening everywhere and are never reported. The dogged determination of this journalist is amazing! ❤

[@Twicethelimit]

The AG should be replaced

[@Pele-speak]

It's unbelievable that this man is still walking around free. Is there an even local government?

[@Portia-oc6mr]

And still is allowed to advertised online to lure in unsuspecting victims.

[@lovingme1st973]

It's unbelievable he's still walking around alive and well.

[@639ONELOVE]

Soooo the bank didn’t verify the GC credentials? WTH? He didn’t have a license so that would have halted the loan immediately. Something isn’t adding up.. they need to start at the bank and move backwards..

[@normbograham]

follow the money.

[@saranelson9146]

Same happened to us. The municipalities don’t verify licenses before issuing permits as well.

[@dtyallen9864]

Guaranteed Rates did the same to me. Cut a check for 14,600 to an unlicensed contractor. He cashed the check and disappeared.

[@RichAction]

Great reporting. Now this is a good journalist/reporter. Well laid out and tracked down those responsible 👍

[@KawikaDowney]

thank you for the reporting

[@user-bo1rj2xu2s]

QUEEN CITY at it again! Keep going and get these SOBs! Shame on the NC AGs office.

[@seyoummichael1722]

This guy Jody Barr is the GOAT of investigative reporting. If i ever see him knocking on my door, I'm buying a one way ticket to Mexico. Keep up the good work!

[@aijouefranklin6273]

Mario is walking around with his family shopping and his driveway has a nice big truck. So everyone knows where some of that money went. The man is a thief and a liar, and he doesn’t care because nothing has happened to him. The authorities should be ashamed of themselves for dismissing the case.

[@ucanflyit64]

Zero consumer protections! It's a joke!

[@Lucygil9]

hasnt found the right dude to double tap him yet . FAAFO .

[@WW3_Soon]

Italian fraudster

[@lovingme1st973]

Someone should help him meet his maker.

[@rissaheads6091]

If Trump can be president … no issues here

[@conobitv]

Excelent report, congratulations! And thank you for educating us abiut this type of peoole!

[@curtisnstacey]

man, dont how i got here but this Jody guy does great work! i actually watched the whole 30 min.

[@melanie7781]

One like this should be enough to press charges.

[@modiggidybeats]

I can’t believe Joy Cotto felt like she earned her commission. She had the audacity to tell the woman she never gave him the opportunity to complete the build. Money will show you the true nature of an individual. Sad story I swear. $323,000 in the wind. I’ve had 3 contractors in a row to get over on me and I was mentally in a rut for 2-3 years now. It makes you question your judgement on everything else. This lifted my spirits a bit because there’s always someone out there who has it worse than you. I only lost about 12k. I couldn’t imagine losing 300k. Sheesh.

[@ucanflyit64]

It's not just the money either. They've ruined people's lives. Many have had to live with family, got divorced and lived in their cars as a result of Mario and Joy Cotto. They are true psychopaths who show no remorse or take no responsibility for their actions.

[@genxx2724]

@@ucanflyit64 i’m sure they had a good time spending the money on a lifestyle they didn’t earn.

[@LisandraAyala1118]

@@ucanflyit64we are one of the homeowners in lincoln county. Everyday I read something new on them. I cant imagine anyone having to live in their car because of them. That is terrible. There needs to be a way that every single family and anyone affected by Mario and Cotto to tell their story and how this has impacted all of our lives. We are now having so many issues just trying to finish the build.

[@CJBroonie]

Rock on, Jody Barr. Keep up the good work!

[@neverstop2493]

When you have a constructive MAKE SURE IT IS IN THE CONTRACT no draws without homeowner signing off and ask demand invoices for all draws

[@RomeyBlack1111]

NEVER GIVE CASH UP FRONT EVER!

[@kavaragee6042]

Make them finish with their only 10 percent down payment. The 90 percent at completion of contract

[@RomeyBlack1111]

@@kavaragee6042 YES

[@lindacurtis3513]

Grifter

[@lindacurtis3513]

Wow ,learning more about my new home State of NC !!!!

[@adamhuffman3354]

Yea our Attorney General gets busy. But he will get to it.

[@shekharmoona544]

Never complain about numbers of cases when a news agency literally did part of your job.

[@ucanflyit64]

Jody Barr did all the work and handed the information to all these agencies and they were too lazy to use it.

[@creativetalentproductions]

This happens often. Thank you for bringing this to the masses.

[@ryanretirement6662]

The home contractor fraud scheme he should be arrested in jail.

[@MagiqDragon]

All these people scammed and only one person filed a complaint with the AG's office? She said she knows a lot of the other owners and has tried to rally the troops. I've seen people complain over $5 at the grocery store, what are these other owners waiting for? With all that said, it's the banks' fault and their lack of oversight. I work in the mortgage lending industry and I couldn't fathom this happening, much less blaming your own members.

[@ucanflyit64]

There are many, many complaints with the NC Building Dept, RE Commissions, AGs office, etc. None have done a thing to help any of us. Jody Barr is the only one who has listened and taken this seriously. He's a bulldog!!

[@georgeross6304]

@@ucanflyit64 I mean, state complaint will only help on small things.

[@danielrandolph9170]

Please keep us informed on the investigation ! Good new investigation thanks

[@JustMeLive]

Great journalism! 💯

[@SupraBlack-dp4zz]

My house basically burned down. I was presented with a list of contractors from the insurance company, which I chose one. They ended up taking the money, going bankrupt with the house 1/3 finished. I also received about 120k of mechanics liens on my property. Needed help from an attorney, but it was all cleared up. I feel these people's pain. 100%

[@ElmoBug]

File complaint with state real estate board against the agent wife! Shes in on it too. Its sick!

[@DRventura333]

So these unlicensed contractors, general contractors, loan officers, builders took these people's hard earned money and then hit the road. Interesting, the unlicensed contractor is enjoying going shopping with his family in their expensive new cars, dirt bikes, HD trucks.... The State must do something Class action and get these people's money back.

[@eustacemcgoodboy9702]

Hit the road? No, they built mansions for themselves in America and are living just fine.

[@legion1630]

Thank God for Queen City News

[@LarryMcNeely-me4px]

Never trust a Realtor, and be careful when dealing with contractors. I am a retired contractor who will never use a realtor after experiencing their scams.

[@Bethanyview]

Good job! Lisa is an amazing woman and is a rare catalyst for bringing these people down. The reporter is thorough and will hopefully continue this fight. The AG is an elected official so a total waste of time and help. Hoping the DA fights hard for these folks.

[@javierluna56]

Jody you’re a badass. I’m sure you will bird dog this till that crook get put in jail. As a contractor, I hate to see stories like this. EVERY SINGLE TIME a contractor screws over a customer, we as an industry get a black eye and are automatically distrusted by people. This couple needs to get locked up for their crimes and not be allowed to be involved in the building industry again. Contractors know that the ONLY thing we really have is a reputation. It is either good or bad. We work too hard to build that reputation and hate those who destroy public trust with their greed and self dealing. I know you will get results and keep up the great reporting.

[@ShalomShalom-d5c]

Theres a reason why this crap never happens in California. Our laws protect our people. Contractors with or without licenses go to jail. We dont have issues like this.

[@anaychaker7344]

Thank you for covering and reporting on this!!! Thieves , and knowingly so !!! It’s so heartbreaking for the ones who have lost so much money to these low - life Scammers !! 😢😢😢 I pray the innocent get their money back somehow . Thank you for showing the scammers faces !!

[@barryholiday8998]

Internet sleuths let’s get to work and let Mario Cotto and his family know what they have done is wrong.

[@eustacemcgoodboy9702]

Lol. They're laughing in their mansions and lambos as they drive to fly private to Bali for the summer.