An ‘estate agent’ will approach you, encouraging you to buy a property by paying either a deposit or the full price of the property. Once payment has been made, the so-called ‘estate agent’ vanishes and is no longer traceable. When dealing with an agent, buyers and sellers must check that the agent is registered with the Estate Agency Affairs Board and that they have been issued with a Fidelity Fund Certificate. It’s illegal for an agent to practice if they are not in possession of this important document. You can check whether a real estate company is registered by visiting the Estate Agency Affairs Board on www.eaab.org.za or calling them on 087 285 3222.
If you are dealing with the seller directly, ensure that they are actually the owner of the
property. You can ask them to give you a copy of the title deed of the property.