Overseas sellers are particularly vulnerable to real estate fraud. Here is how to protect yourself and spot red flags before they cost you.
International property sellers are an attractive target for fraudsters. Distance, unfamiliarity with the local market, and urgency to sell create vulnerabilities. Understanding the common scams and how to verify who you are dealing with protects you entirely.
A legitimate Dubai real estate agent charges commission on successful sale only — never upfront listing or marketing fees. Any agent asking for "photography fees", "portal listing charges", or "processing fees" before the property sells is a serious red flag.
Our policy: Zero fees until your property sells. Our 2–2.5% commission is payable at completion only.
Every individual agent in Dubai must hold a valid RERA broker card to legally practice real estate. Verify any agent's card at rera.gov.ae or via the Dubai REST app using their name or card number. An unlicensed agent has no legal authority to list, negotiate, or represent you.
Our credentials: RERA Reg. No. 52591 | Broker Card — Himanshu Gupta: 86334.
A legitimate agent needs a DLD Form A (listing agreement) — not a POA. A POA is only needed at the point of DLD transfer. Any agent pushing you to sign a broad POA immediately — before you have verified their credentials and understood its scope — is a major red flag. A POA granted to the wrong person can be misused to transfer ownership without your knowledge.
Fix: Never sign a POA without independent legal review. Ensure the POA is narrowly drafted for a specific property and specific transaction only.
Some fraudulent agents manufacture fake "cash buyer" offers to pressure sellers into reducing the price quickly, creating urgency, or paying admin fees to "reserve" the buyer. Legitimate buyers make offers through formal MOU processes — no cash in advance, no reservation deposits paid to the agent.
Every legitimate listing on Dubai portals must have a Trakheesi permit number issued by RERA. This confirms the listing is authorised by the property owner and the broker is licensed. If you cannot find your property listed with a Trakheesi permit, or if you see unauthorised listings of your property, contact RERA immediately.
A legitimate sale involves: signed DLD Form A → property listed with Trakheesi permit → viewings arranged through the brokerage → offers via formal MOU (Form F) → 10% deposit secured in a DLD-registered account → developer NOC → DLD transfer → proceeds to seller's UAE bank account. Any deviation from this sequence warrants scrutiny.
Our RERA-licensed team handles everything remotely. No travel required.
⚠️ All information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Property regulations subject to change. IA Wealth Real Estate LLC — RERA No. 52591.