01
Inspect the property
Whenever possible, visit the property personally or arrange for a trusted representative to inspect it on your behalf.
Safety Tips
Protect yourself. Verify before you pay.
Finding a property online should be convenient, but property transactions require care. Olive Blocks encourages every user to carry out appropriate checks before making payments or entering into agreements.
Before renting or buying
Seven checks that protect your money, your time and your peace of mind.
02
Verify the owner or agent
Confirm the identity and authority of the person offering the property. Where an agent is involved, ask for their professional details and relevant credentials.
03
Verify ownership and documentation
Request and independently verify relevant property documents before making a major financial commitment.
04
Be careful with advance payments
Do not send money simply because a listing appears attractive or because someone is pressuring you to pay quickly.
05
Use written agreements
Ensure important terms are documented, including price, rent, deposit, duration, responsibilities, conditions and payment arrangements.
06
Watch for unrealistic offers
Extremely low prices, urgent payment demands, refusal to allow inspections and requests to transfer money to unrelated persons can be warning signs.
07
Keep records
Keep copies of communications, receipts, agreements, property documents and payment confirmations.
Buying from abroad
For overseas buyers & diaspora customers
If you are purchasing or renting property remotely, take these extra steps before you commit.
- Use trusted representatives to inspect the property.
- Independently verify ownership and documentation.
- Use qualified legal professionals where appropriate.
- Confirm the identity and authority of anyone acting on your behalf.
- Do not rely solely on photographs or videos.
- Avoid sending large sums without completing appropriate due diligence.
Important
Olive Blocks provides a platform for connecting users with property owners, agents, developers, hosts and service providers. Users should independently verify property information and the credentials of parties involved before entering into a transaction.
When in doubt
Stop.Verify.Seek professional advice.
Something about a listing doesn't feel right? Tell us and we will look into it.