Property is likely the largest payment you will make through a classified ad, so the cost of a mistake is high. Take your time, see the property in person and get everything in writing.
Always view it before paying anything
Never pay a deposit, a “booking fee” or a viewing fee for a property you have not seen. Photos can be copied from other listings, so check that the place exists and matches the ad. Look at the neighbourhood too: noise, access, water pressure, mobile signal and travel time to work or school.
Check who you are dealing with
- Ask whether you are talking to the owner, a tenant who is sub-letting or an agent.
- Ask for identification and for proof that they own or are entitled to let or sell the property.
- If an agent is involved, confirm they are authorised to act for the owner and ask about any fee before you agree to anything.
If you are renting
- Get a written tenancy agreement that states the rent, the deposit, the length of the term and the notice period.
- Find out what the rent includes (water, electricity, internet, maintenance) and who pays for repairs.
- Take dated photos of the condition on the day you move in, and ask the owner to sign an inventory.
- Ask for a receipt for the deposit and for the rules on how and when it is returned.
If you are buying
- Have a lawyer or a qualified professional check the title deeds and confirm there are no loans, disputes or claims against the property.
- Check that the boundaries and the size in the documents match what you are shown on site.
- Confirm any required permits, approvals and taxes, which vary by country and region.
- Use a lawyer-drafted agreement and pay through a traceable bank transfer, not in cash, wherever possible.
Be careful with land
Land sales are a frequent target for fraud. Inspect the plot in person, compare it with the survey plan, and have the ownership history checked by a professional before you pay any money.