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 …

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Sushi Restaurants in Singapore

Jayson Ang – May 2, 2024 –

Singapore, a melting pot of cultures and culinary delights, is known for its diverse and vibrant food scene. Among the...

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....

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

HDB Loan Vs Bank Loan: Pros & Cons

Jayson Ang – February 25, 2023 –

TLDR When deciding between an HDB loan or a bank loan for purchasing a property in Singapore, consider key factors...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Discover What Else You Can Focus On Beyond PSF – Here’s How!

Jayson Ang – July 17, 2023 –

TLDR When considering real estate investments, factors like property size, location, and PSF play crucial roles in determining affordability. Smaller...

Mandarin Top 5

Singapore’s Property Insights : Where to Find 5 Hidden Gems?

Jayson Ang – June 14, 2023 –

Singapore's Property Insights : Where to Find 5 Hidden Gems? With its booming economy, vibrant culture and attractive regulations, Singapore...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Why Do Singaporeans Still Flood The Property Market?

Jayson Ang – August 25, 2024 –

Singapore, a thriving city-state with a robust economy and a strong demand for real estate, has always been an attractive...

Mandarin Top 5

Why Property Investing is the Key to Early Retirement in Singapore

Jayson Ang – April 28, 2024 –

Investing in property is a popular way to build wealth and achieve financial freedom in Singapore. With the right strategies...

All Buying Tips Opinion

Executive Condos in Singapore: Have They Outgrown the “Sandwich Class” Label?

Jayson Ang – July 1, 2025 –

TLDR The Executive Condominium (EC) scheme, once intended as affordable “sandwich class” housing, is now acting more like a lottery...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Which Is Better For You: A 99-Year Leasehold Or Freehold Property Tenure?

Jayson Ang – March 25, 2023 –

TLDR When it comes to the choice between leasehold and freehold properties in Singapore, several factors must be considered. Leasehold...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Best Hidden Boutique Hotels in Singapore

Jayson Ang – October 11, 2024 –

Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its iconic landmarks and diverse culture, offers a plethora of accommodation options for travelers....

All Blog Posts Opinion

Invest During the Bearish & Exit During the Bullish

Jayson Ang – December 27, 2022 –

TLDR A comprehensive overview of the real estate market trends, emphasizing the importance of strategic property analysis and investment decisions....

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Why Do Singaporeans Still Flood The Property Market?

Jayson Ang – November 17, 2024 –

Singapore's property market has been a hot topic of discussion for many years, with its resilience and growth attracting both...

All Blog Posts Opinion Selling Tips

When Should You Consider Lowering the Price of Your Property That Has Been on the Market for Months?

Jayson Ang – December 3, 2024 –

TLDR Selling a property can be challenging without the right price strategy. Adjust your asking price to attract more buyers...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Best Green Spaces to Picnic in Singapore

Jayson Ang – December 25, 2024 –

Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its modern architecture and vibrant culture, is also home to numerous green spaces that...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips Opinion

A Executive Summary Guide to the Singapore Real Estate Market 2023 and Beyond …

Jayson Ang – December 10, 2022 –

TLDR The Singapore real estate market is vibrant, driven by a strong economy, stable business climate, and attractive investment opportunities....

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Must-Know Facts about Luxury Properties in Districts 9 of Singapore

Jayson Ang – August 19, 2024 –

Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its impressive skyline and vibrant economy, has always been an attractive destination for property...

All Buying Tips Opinion

7 Frequently Overlooked Questions That New Condo Buyers Should Ask At The Showflat To Avoid Any Regrets In The Future!

Jayson Ang – January 29, 2024 –

TLDR Newly launched condominium buyers face uncertainties about price changes, proximity to schools, construction methods, maintenance costs, elevator availability, commercial...