A Member has reported a suspicious occurrence regarding a For Sale By Owner posting on a classified advertising website.
Upon noticing the posting, the Member contacted the individual who posted the ad with a request to discuss his real estate needs.
The individual insisted on meeting at the advertised property for a discussion; however, when the Member attempted to research the property, he discovered that an online map search did not display a home at the address provided. Additionally, a search of public records yielded no information.
A commercial directory search also offered no results, and the telephone number provided is associated with a different name and address.
Members are encouraged to take appropriate safety precautions when meeting a client for the first time, including meeting at the office; being accompanied by a colleague for showings, where possible; keeping a mobile phone on hand at all times; and updating the office on your itinerary.
Did you know? The following are all accessible from the Stratus home page via the Your Information Centre button.
- Member Alerts (including archived items);
- A Fraud Red Flag Checklist;
- CREA’s ‘The Safe Side - REALTOR® Safety Issues’ brochure; and,
- REALTOR® Safety Tips.