How to avoid property scams

Most listings are genuine, but property scams exist in every market. This advice helps you recognise them. It is general advice and does not replace a lawyer or a notary.

Signs that should stop you

• The price is far below that of similar properties in the same zone.
• You are asked for a deposit, or a "viewing fee", before you have seen the property.
• The "owner" says they are abroad and that the keys will be posted to you after payment.
• You are rushed: "others are interested, pay today".
• Payment is asked by transfer to a third person, through money-transfer services or in cryptocurrency.
• The person avoids meeting, calling, or questions about documents.
• The photos look like a hotel's, or you find them in other listings with a different address.

Before you pay for a rental

• See the property yourself, inside, with the person letting it.
• Ask for an identity document and a document showing that the person is the owner or represents the owner.
• Sign a written contract stating the rent, the deposit, the term and the condition of the property.
• Pay in a way that leaves a record, and get a receipt for every payment, the deposit included.

When you buy

• Ask for the ownership certificate and check it with the State Cadastre Agency (ASHK): who the owner is, and whether the property carries a mortgage, a charge or a seizure.
• A property sale in Albania is made by notarial deed. Pay nothing outside the contract signed before the notary.
• For a property under construction, check the building permit and the contract with the developer.
• When the sum is large, pay a lawyer to read the documents before you sign.

What Shtepi.org does

• The first listing of every new account is read by staff before it goes online, and every listing passes automatic checks. The details are in the publishing rules.
• Every listing has a "Report this listing" button. Reports are reviewed by staff.
• Shtepi.org is not a party to agreements between you and the lister and cannot guarantee listings. We never ask you for money to view a property or to contact a lister.

If you have doubts or have been cheated

• Stop paying, and keep the messages, phone numbers and receipts.
• Report the listing with the button on its page, or write to us through the contact page.
• If you have paid, tell your bank at once and report it to the police.