Woman accuses property firm of deception

HOUSTON – A consumer is suing a Harris County company on alleged grounds of fraud and concealment related to a 2013 property dispute.

Julie Taylor filed the lawsuit on April 14 against Houston Moneymakers Inc. in Galveston County District Court, claiming breach of contract in a July 2013 real estate transaction.

Taylor purchased a property at 4219 Downey St. in Santa Fe, Texas, from the defendant on or about July 5, 2013. According to the lawsuit, the defendant concealed systemic and structural defects from the buyer; and had previously attempted to sell the property to the plaintiff’s neighbor.

The lawsuit states that an inspection revealed flaws in the home’s electrical system, foundation and plumbing. Taylor alleges statutory fraud, common law fraud and negligent misrepresentation.

Citing violation of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices’ Act, the plaintiff seeks: as much as $40,000 in compensation for repairs; $80,000 in treble damages if the defendant is found to have knowingly engaged in the alleged deception; and/or $80,000 in punitive damages for the firm’s gross negligence or intentional or knowing conduct, along with pre- and post-judgment interest; attorney’s fees; expenses; and costs. She is represented by Keith Gross of League City.

Galveston County District Court case no. CV-0074034