Real estate scams

• Double sale

  One flat sold to several 'owners' with forged documents — verify the registry on deal day.

• Deposit upfront

  Deposit before document checks — classic; deposit only at the notary or after the extract.

• Fake owner

  A tenant sells someone else's flat with a forged passport — verify identity via registry + video call with the notary.

• Ghost new-build

  Collecting money without a construction permit — check the permit, declaration, developer's land.

• Agency 'race'

  Paying 'search fees' before viewing — real agencies charge commission on results.

Rule number one: no money before checks. No 'urgent, buyer waiting'. A real deal always survives a day of verification.