Public urged to verify realtors after ‘for sale’ sign scam

The Realtors Association of Jamaica (RAJ) is warning members of the public to exercise caution when engaging in real estate transactions following a “ sophisticated” scam involving stolen and altered property signs.

The association said official “For Sale” signs belonging to a licensed realtor were recently stolen from a property in Stony Hill in St Andrew and later transported to Portland, where the contact information was altered to display a fraudulent phone number.

According to the association, the signs were then placed on a different property in an attempt to mislead unsuspecting buyers into contacting the scammers.

It said the scheme was uncovered when an observant citizen, who was familiar with the legitimate real estate agent, noticed discrepancies in the contact details and reported the matter.

In a statement on Monday, the association said the incident highlights the lengths to which scammers are willing to go, including stealing official signage and exploiting the credibility of licensed professionals.

"This incident is a stark reminder that scammers are willing to go to great lengths, including physical theft, to defraud the public," said the RAJ. “A real estate transaction is often the largest investment a person will make in their lifetime. Do not leave it to chance. Always insist on working with a licensed realtor whose credentials you have personally verified. ”

The group is urging members of the public to verify the credentials of any real estate agent through the Real Estate Board before conducting business.

It also advised potential buyers to cross-check property listings through official brokerage websites, avoid making cash deposits outside of formal transaction processes, and conduct meetings at the physical offices of licensed real estate agencies.

“A real estate transaction is often the largest investment a person will make in their lifetime. Do not leave it to chance. Always insist on working with a licensed realtor whose credentials you have personally verified,” the association said.

The association added that it is working with authorities to investigate the theft and unauthorised use of the signage.

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