How to Spot a Facebook Marketplace Scam

How to Spot a Facebook Marketplace Scam

Facebook marketplace scam

How to spot a Facebook Marketplace Scam

If you're in the market for a new home, Facebook Marketplace can be a great resource to find potential properties. However, like with any online platform, there is always a risk of scams. In this blog post, we'll explore how to protect yourself against property scams on Facebook Marketplace.

  1. Do Your Research

Before contacting anyone about a property on Facebook Marketplace, do your research. Look up the property address and the seller's name to see if they have a legitimate presence online. You can also check websites like Rightmove or OnTheMarket.com to see if the property is listed there as well. If you can't find any information about the seller or the property, it's best to move on.

  1. Verify the Seller's Identity

When you contact a seller on Facebook Marketplace, make sure to verify their identity. Ask for their full name, phone number, and email address. You can also ask for their social media profiles, such as LinkedIn or Twitter. If they're hesitant to provide this information, it's a red flag.

  1. Don't Transfer Money in Advance

One of the most common property scams on Facebook Marketplace is when a seller asks for money to reserve the property upfront, before a viewing has taken place. Never send money to someone you don't know, especially if it's for a property you haven't seen in person. This is likely a scam. Only transfer money once you have confirmed the seller’s details and that they actually own the property (you can ask for proof of this or check land registry - cost approx £3). 

  1. Insist on a Video Tour

If you're interested in a property on Facebook Marketplace, ask the seller for a video tour. This will give you a better idea of what the property looks like and can help you determine if it's a legitimate listing. If the seller is hesitant to provide a video tour, it's another red flag.

  1. Check for Other Listings

Scammers often use the same photos and descriptions for multiple properties, or steal AirBnB photos. To check if the listing is legitimate, do a reverse image search on Google to see if the photos have been used elsewhere. You can also search Facebook Marketplace for similar listings in the same area. Also if they have multiple listings and are not affiliated with a Letting Agency, then this is another red flag. 

  1. If it seems too good to be true……

Most scammers will underprice the property to get as many enquiries as possible, so if it seems too good to be true, then it probably is! Check the local market for comparable prices, if it is way off then it is likely to be a scam.

  1. Trust Your Gut

Finally, trust your gut. If something seems too good to be true or if the seller is pressuring you to make a quick decision, it's likely a scam. Take your time and don't rush into anything.

In conclusion, protecting yourself against property scams on Facebook Marketplace requires some due diligence and common sense. By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to a scam and find your dream home with peace of mind. The safest way to search for a new property is through a reputable Letting Agency.