The Rise of Darren Berg and Meridian Mortgage

Darren Berg established the Meridian Mortgage company in Seattle, focusing on purchasing seller-financed loans, a practice that enabled him to attract wealthy investors. He presented these loans as incredibly low-risk, frequently guaranteeing returns of up to 50%, which appealed to accredited investors who could afford the minimum investment of $100,000. Berg's charm and credibility initially led to significant success, with the funds audited annually, creating an illusion of legitimacy. However, beneath this facade lay a business model that was no more than an intricate scheme, aimed at attracting investments without any substantive backing.