How do I know if a rental broker is genuine?
A genuine broker has an office or at least a known local presence, shows you flats before charging anything, and takes a brokerage only when the deal is done. A broker who asks for a registration fee, a visit fee or a token before you have seen a single flat is a sign of fraud.
Online "brokers" and "property consultants" who work only through WhatsApp and need a fee to "share verified listings" are a common scam. Some operate from another city entirely.
How to check
- Ask for the office address and visit it, or at least look it up on Google Maps and read the reviews.
- Search the broker's name and number with "fraud" and "scam".
- Where your state requires it, ask for the RERA registration number and check it on the state's RERA website.
- Do not pay any fee before you have seen a flat and met the owner.
- Pay brokerage only after the agreement is signed, and get a receipt.
Frequently asked questions
- The broker wants brokerage in cash with no receipt. Is that normal?
- Common, but not safe. Ask for a receipt or pay by UPI so there is a record.
Want to know if there are warning signs about the person you are talking to? Veritaza checks the photos, messages, mobile number, email ID, name and ID card, for ₹289.
Verify a person