Taiwan Authorities Warn of Surge in Rental and Sales Scams, Advise Caution

Nantou County in Taiwan is stepping up efforts to combat a surge in real estate rental and sales scams. Unscrupulous individuals are reportedly exploiting the urgent need for housing by advertising properties at prices significantly below market rates to lure unsuspecting victims.

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whether buying or renting, the first step is to make good use of the official 'actual transaction price' to understand market conditions and see through ultra-low price traps.

The county's Land Administration Office is urging the public to exercise caution. Before committing to any transaction, it's crucial to first consult official "actual transaction price" databases on the National Land Agency's website or similar platforms. This allows potential buyers or renters to gauge the true market value and identify suspiciously low prices.

For rental scams, the office emphasizes three key principles. First, never transfer money before viewing the property. Those who claim a property is in high demand and require a deposit to reserve it are likely fraudsters. Second, always verify the property owner's identity and check the property's title deed and any authorization documents. Finally, it's advisable to use platforms with robust management systems and to contact the anti-fraud hotline if any suspicious activity is encountered.

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those who demand payment of a deposit to reserve a spot on the grounds that the property is in high demand are highly likely to be scammers.

The Land Administration Office stresses that purchasing a home involves significant financial commitment. By adopting a habit of "checking actual prices first, then verifying identity," and by being wary of deals that seem too good to be true, individuals can protect themselves from substantial losses and ensure a secure home purchase.

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especially when buying a house to start a family involves a large amount of money transaction, once scammed, it will suffer huge losses.