Avoiding fake property listings

Most buyers assume fake listings are rare — they're not. A huge percentage of “too good to be true” properties never existed, were already sold, or were posted by agents fishing for leads. If you don’t know what to look for, you’ll waste days chasing shadows instead of seeing real homes. Here’s how to separate real inventory from manufactured bait.

1. Check for consistency across platforms


A real listing shows up the same way everywhere — same photos, same price, same description. If the details change from site to site, you’re looking at someone copying content just to attract attention. That’s a sign the agent isn’t connected to the property at all.

2. Look for on-site photos, not catalog images


 Real properties have real lighting flaws, ceiling shadows, and lived-in imperfections. Perfectly staged images, identical angles, or photos with international watermarks usually mean the agent never stepped inside the house. If the pictures feel too clean, they probably aren’t recent — or aren’t real.

3. Ask for a viewing window — and see how they react


 A confident agent gives you an exact day and time range because they actually have access. If they dodge the question, say “let me confirm,” or push you toward another property, that’s code for “I don’t control this listing.”

4. Validate location details


 Legitimate listings don’t hide the location. If all you get is “near XYZ,” “behind ABC,” or “close to the main road,” you’re being played. Good agents tell you the exact road or estate because they aren’t scared you’ll bypass them.

5. Look for paperwork readiness


 A real property has clarity — title status, service charge, unit size, developer name. If the agent can’t answer basic legal questions, they’re not connected to the property. And if they won’t answer them, walk away immediately.


The bottom line


 A fake listing wastes your time long before it wastes your money. The faster you can spot the tells, the easier it becomes to focus on homes that are actually available and worth your attention. Demand clarity early, and you’ll avoid 90% of the frustration other buyers face.