Key takeaways
- Most scams rely on urgency, distance and missing paperwork.
- If you cannot verify it, do not pay for it.
- Report suspected fraud early. Delay helps the fraudster.
1. The double sale. The same stand is sold to several buyers. Protect yourself: verify the documents at source and register your interest promptly.
2. The fake owner. Someone poses as the owner, or forges authority to sell. Protect yourself: check ID, meet the owner, and verify the title at the Deeds Registry.
3. The "offer letter" sold as ownership. The seller presents an offer letter as if it were a title deed. Protect yourself: learn the difference, as covered in the first article in this series.
4. The unapproved layout. You buy a stand in a development that was never approved, so you cannot register or build lawfully. Protect yourself: ask for the approvals and verify them with the authority.
5. The deposit disappearance. You pay a deposit to hold a stand, then the seller vanishes. Protect yourself: never pay before you have verified, and pay only against a written agreement.
6. The diaspora middleman. A relative or agent collects the money and the property never materialises. Protect yourself: use a lawyer, and pay into accounts you can trace.
7. The "too good to miss" price. A deal far below market, available only today. Protect yourself: walk away. Good property can wait for your checks.
If you think you have been scammed
Gather every document, message and payment record, and stop paying. Report to the police and take legal advice quickly.
This article is general information, not legal advice.