Real estate scams in Cameroon: how to spot them
Updated Tuesday, October 27, 2026
Most real estate scams involve requests for money before a viewing or before any formal legal transaction. Recognizing the warning signs is often enough to avoid them.
Common Scams
- The fake landlord: Someone offers a property they do not own and requests a "reservation deposit" or "viewing fee," often via mobile money.
- Renting the same property to multiple people, with each person having paid an advance.
- Double sale of a plot of land: The same piece of land is sold to two different buyers.
- Fraudulent or mortgaged land title: The document provided is not authentic, or the land is being used as collateral for a loan.
- Fabricated procedures: You are asked to pay for a process that does not exist under the law.
Warning Signs
- A price significantly lower than similar listings in the area;
- A person who seems rushed, refuses to allow a viewing, or claims to be abroad;
- A request for payment before a viewing or before signing a contract;
- Documents shown only as photographs.
Verification Steps
- Conduct viewings during the day and ask to see the person's identification.
- For rentals, request the land title or a written authorization (mandate) from the owner.
- For purchases, obtain a certificate of ownership from the land registry office and work through a notary.
- Make payments only at the time of signing, and always obtain a written receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a plot of land has been sold twice?
Stop all payments, gather your documents and receipts, and consult a lawyer; they will advise you on how to assert your rights and file a complaint against the seller.
Should I pay to book a viewing?
No. You should never pay in advance for a viewing. Such a request is the most common sign of a scam.
How do you report a suspicious listing?
Use the "Report this listing" link on the listing's page. If you have lost money, also report it to the police.