No one is shielded from the sophisticated and simple yet unnoticeable tricks used by auctioneers to rob Kenyans of their hard-earned sweat.
Auctioneers in the country provide Kenyans with cheap commodities ranging from cars to land and houses. However, without caution and a keen eye, Kenyans can fall into the traps of unscrupulous auctioneers.
Some of the tricks auctioneers use to con Kenyans of millions include;
Inconsistent Information
As an interested buyer, you have gone through the adverts online but upon making further enquiries, the information does not match.
The credentials might also be incorrect. In such cases, insist on seeing a copy of the title deed among other relevant documents.
If you can not do it alone, seek the help of a lawyer.
Payments to Personal Accounts
After successfully identifying a piece of land or house, it is time for payment to complete the transaction.
Some shady auctioneers could demand payment to their personal accounts. This is a suspicious move that could swallow your cash. Insist on transacting through the company bank account details.
Fake Clients During Viewing
In the advert, auctioneers include dates to view the land or house. Often transport is included but in the midst of genuine buyers, there are others posing as clients.
In such cases, visit the piece of land or house on a different day and conduct due diligence, including sourcing information from neighbors to confirm the authenticity of the sale.
Also, during the site viewing, interact with the other buyers. This will help you weed out coached actors posing as buyers.
No viewing of the land or house in question.
Some auctioneers can only provide images and videos of the item but refuse physical viewing. This should be a red flag, the first indicator of monkey business. If you choose to continue to make the purchase exercise extra caution.
Hidden Charges
Some charges might be left out of the initial advertisement. For example, you might be required to pay for existing fencing on a plot of land.
During the initial negotiation phase, ensure you ask all the questions and seek conclusive answers.
Non-refundable terms.
The non-refundable terms put in place by auctioneers prevent buyers from returning bought products. Before making any payment ensure you are satisfied with the product to avoid losing your deposit.
