Scammers target home buyer deposits through lawyers, real estate agents

[Chris W]

Beware
Scammers target home buyer deposits through lawyers, real estate agents


Home buyers are being targeted by a new scam which tricks them into paying their deposit money to fraudsters instead of a legitimate trust account.
Banking Ombudsman Nicola Sladden says...

[Wellington Broker]

Okay so first time I've come across this - client is telling me his lawyer can't reveal details of separation agreement until settlement of sale has occurred and all debts are paid - does this make any sense? I suspect he's decided to 'save money' by not engaging a lawyer.

[roonsinauckland]

Newly returned to NZ and currently looking for a new house, however not having lived up here before don’t know of any decent property lawyers. Can you help with an honest recommendation?
Cheers.