The Realtors Association of Jamaica (RAJ) has strengthened its fight against real estate fraud by partnering with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), the Real Estate Board (REB), and key industry stakeholders. 

In a second high-level meeting at the Office of the Commissioner of Police on March 26, representatives from law enforcement, the real estate sector, and regulatory body came together to develop a strategic plan to combat the rising threat of real estate scams.

Real estate scams have become a growing issue in Jamaica, with fraudsters using deceptive tactics to target property seekers. One common scam involves criminals stealing legitimate property listings from realtors, setting up fake social media pages, and changing contact details to their own. 

Victims are then tricked into paying for viewings or making deposits on properties that are either not for sale or rent. It is important to note that realtors do not charge fees to view properties.

These fraudulent schemes have negatively impacted both property rentals and sales, with financial institutions also reporting concerns about real estate fraud. The increasing sophistication of these scams underscores the need for stronger safeguards and public education efforts.

RAJ’s second vice-president Roger Allen emphasized the urgency of this initiative stating, “Protecting the integrity of Jamaica’s real estate sector is critical—not just for industry professionals, but for every Jamaican who dreams of homeownership or a secure rental arrangement.”

Nevin Nish, chairman of the RAJ lobbying committee, highlighted the broader risks, warning, “Land is the foundation of all material wealth. We cannot allow scammers to destabilise the real estate industry and, by extension, our country.”

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Stephanie Lindsay and representatives from the JCF’s Counter-Terrorism and Organized Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC), including Assistant Commissioner Anthony McLaughlin, reaffirmed law enforcement’s commitment to tackling these fraudulent activities. SSP Lindsay emphasized that while public education is key, law enforcement will also take strong investigative measures to bring scammers to justice.

REB chairman Andrew James, along with senior REB officials, pledged increased oversight and  stronger consumer protection efforts.  Allison Morgan, an RAJ advocacy committee member, stressed that collaboration between stakeholders is crucial to restoring public confidence in real estate transactions.

Protect yourself: How to spot and avoid real estate scams

The RAJ is urging property seekers to take extra precautions when engaging in real estate transactions. To verify if a realtor is legitimate:

1.  Ask for the realtor’s pocket license – All licensed real estate professionals in Jamaica must carry an official ID issued by the Real Estate Board.

2.  Verify their status with the RAJ or REB – Visit the RAJ website or call the Real Estate Board at (876) 926-9748 to confirm the agent’s credentials.

3.  Be wary of upfront fees – Realtors do not charge a fee just to show a property. If asked for payment before a viewing, itis a red flag.

4.  Avoid rushing into payments – Scammers create urgency to pressure victims into making hasty deposits. Take your time and verify all details before making any financial commitments.

Anyone who suspects they have been targeted by a real estate scam is encouraged to report it to law enforcement and the RAJ.