Fraudulent real estate agents con university students

Incidences of rental fraud have surfaced in the last few weeks with university students falling victims to individuals purporting to be real estate agents or caretakers, taking security deposits or bond for properties they do not own nor are authorised to lease out.

The Consumer Council of Fiji has received reports of individuals claiming to be licensed real estate agents and authorised property caretakers, who are trying to dupe university students in order to profit off them.

Council CEO, Seema Shandil says in one of these cases, a group of regional students were targeted by an individual who gave assurances to provide rental housing. The students collectively paid $3600 as deposit to the individual in question but to their dismay, were not provided housing as promised.

Upon investigation, the Council discovered that the agent was neither appointed by the landlord to act on his behalf nor held a valid real estate agent’s license.

Shandil says cases of individuals who have been appointed as caretakers of rental housing trying to profiteer by receiving deposits from students without the intention to supply residential accommodation has also surfaced.

In one particular case, the student paid the caretaker of the property the required deposit but later found out that the particular flat in question was already leased to someone else.

The Council strongly urges university students to verify whether the agents they deal with have a valid license issued by the Real Estate Agents Licensing Board by checking the listing provided on their website. Students are also encouraged to visit properties they intend to lease before placing any security deposit or bond.

Shandil says university students should exercise vigilance while dealing with individuals claiming to be real estate agents or property care takers. Students are also reminded to always demand for receipts while making any payments and it is also crucial that students meet the landlord in person before placing a deposit.

If landlords are overseas, it is imperative to view a letter of authority from the property owner indicating that the caretaker is allowed to officiate on their behalf.

If students have any doubts regarding individuals claiming to be real estate agents or any other tenancy issues, they are advised to contact the Council for advice on toll free number 155 or lodge a complaint using the Consumer Council of Fiji mobile app.