Your search results

3 Steps to Prevent Rental Scams

Posted by Jayson Ang on January 23, 2024

| 0

TLDR: Prevent Rental Scams in Real Estate

Scammers are targeting prospective tenants by impersonating Real Estate Salespersons (RES) to deceive victims into making payments for deposits. To avoid falling victim to such scams, consumers should follow three crucial steps:

Verify CEA Registration: Ensure that the RES’s CEA registration matches the CEA’s registry.

Check Contact Details: Confirm that the RES’s contact number is registered with CEA.

Direct Communication: Verify that the RES can be reached via a call using the registered contact number.

By following these steps, consumers can protect themselves from rental scams in the real estate market. Additionally, resources such as videos and CEA webpages provide further guidance on avoiding such fraudulent activities.

Scammers have targeted prospective tenants, and have impersonated Real Estate Salespersons (“RES”) to request for payments of deposits to secure a viewing or secure a lease via a tenancy agreement, and forwarding tenancy agreement to be signed or e-signed by the unsuspecting victim.

To do the above, scammers impersonate RES with existing and valid Council for Estate Agents (“CEA”) Registration number, and with valid listings on property portals. Scammers will also use the RES’s profile picture and display the RES’s phone number in WhatsApps and/or other communication mode.

It is therefore important for consumers to follow the 3 steps below:

STEP 1: ENSURE the CEA registration of the RES tallies with CEA’s Registry;
STEP 2: ENSURE the contact number of the RES is registered with CEA; and
STEP 3: ENSURE the RES can be contacted via call using the contact number registered with CEA.

You can also watch and share this short video https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1290133575173534 which contains the 3 simple steps.

Arising from the recent spate of scams involving fake property listings and impersonation of RES, CEA,
together with the Singapore Police Force (“SPF”), have reached out to PropNex to do more for our PropNexians and consumers.

You can visit this CEA webpage at https://www.cea.gov.sg/consumers/rental-scams and Facebook which contain information on how to avoid falling victim to such scams.

Please share this message with your friends and families, in order for them to share with others.

Should You Buy, Sell or Wait?

If you’re reading this, you must be trying to figure out the best course of action right now: is it the right time to buy or sell?

It’s difficult to give an exact answer since everyone’s situation is unique and what works for one person may not necessarily work for you.

I can bring you a wealth of on-the-ground experience and a data-driven approach to provide clarity and direction. From beginners to experienced investors, our top-down, objective approach will help you on your real estate journey.

I can help you by:

Offering Strategic Real Estate Advice – I can help create a comprehensive plan to guide you through your property journey.
Connecting Your Home with the Perfect Buyers – Through stunning visuals, an effective communication strategy, and an in-depth knowledge of the market, we’ll ensure your home is presented in the best possible way to fulfill your goals.

You May Also Like …

All Opinion

What Is The Cost Of Constructing A Landed Property In Singapore?

Jayson Ang – February 24, 2025 –

TLDR Building a landed property in Singapore can be a costly endeavor, with prices ranging from $300 to $500 per...

All Buying Tips

The Lifecycle of an HDB Flat: Essential Stages for Owners and Buyers

Jayson Ang – July 4, 2026 –

TLDR HDB flats in Singapore, home to 80% of residents, begin as state land acquired at fair market value. The...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Insider Tips From Real Estate Experts On How To Get The Best Deal On Property In Singapore

Jayson Ang – March 16, 2024 –

Investing in property can be a great way to build wealth and secure your financial future. However, with Singapore's highly...

Mandarin Top 5

Discover Singapore: 5 Must-See Attractions for a Culture Lovers’ Paradise

Jayson Ang – April 18, 2025 –

Singapore, a bustling metropolis in Southeast Asia, is a melting pot of cultures and traditions that offers a unique blend...

All Opinion

Housing Affordability in 2023: Is Singapore Property Truly Unaffordable?

Jayson Ang – November 4, 2023 –

TLDR Singapore’s property market faces challenges with high prices, especially in private housing. While public housing remains more affordable, the...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Regret Buying An Old Condo in Singapore

Jayson Ang – February 25, 2025 –

In the bustling city-state of Singapore, the real estate market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. As of 2023, new...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Singapore with Amazing Views

Jayson Ang – July 27, 2023 –

Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Singapore with Amazing Views Singapore, the Lion City, is known for its stunning skyline and...

All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Will Property Owners Earn More By Keeping Residential Properties For An Extended Period?

Jayson Ang – December 6, 2025 –

TLDR In Singapore, holding a residential property longer typically yields higher profits—averaging $665,000 after 20 years, versus $200,000 for 5–10...

All Buying Tips

What Type of Properties Can a Permanent Resident PR Buy in Singapore?

Jayson Ang – August 13, 2023 –

TLDR When it comes to purchasing property in Singapore as a Permanent Resident or Foreign National, there are specific restrictions...

Mandarin Top 5

Singapore’s Luxury Real Estate Market: The 5 Most Luxurious Neighborhoods

Jayson Ang – May 14, 2023 –

The 5 most expensive neighborhoods in the city, and are home to some of the most exclusive and opulent properties...

All Buying Tips Opinion

7 Essential Considerations to Keep in Mind When Assessing a Floor Plan for a New Condominium Development

Jayson Ang – March 6, 2024 –

TLDR When selecting a property unit, carefully examine the floor plan beyond aesthetics. Consider non-living spaces like ledges and void...

All Blog Posts Opinion

Should Buying A Low Lease Project Be A Viable Option?

Jayson Ang – June 1, 2023 –

TLDR When considering low lease projects in Singapore, it's crucial to evaluate your individual needs, financial standing, and future plans....

Mandarin Top 5

Navigating the Singapore Property Market as a Foreign Investor: What You Need to Know

Jayson Ang – August 7, 2024 –

Singapore, a thriving hub of business and commerce in Southeast Asia, boasts a highly developed economy and a robust real...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Nationalities Of Prime Property Buyers in Singapore

Jayson Ang – November 29, 2024 –

Singapore, a thriving city-state known for its stable political climate, excellent infrastructure, and strong economic fundamentals, has long been an...