The National Association of Property Buyers has released a statement warning property sellers to make extra checks before responding to advertisments from potential buyers. 

There is likely to be a huge increase in the number of scammers and unscrupulous buyers hoping to cash in on seller's misery as the freeze on property sales begins to bite.

Jonathan Rolande of The NAPB said "Sellers should always be cautious about just who they are doing business with, but in the current climate there are more people than ever hoping to mislead home owners for financial gain. Promising unrealistic timescales, slashing prices at the last moment or simply dropping out of a sale leaving a seller high and dry are all tricks used in this kind of market. We are also concerned about the rise of property fraud with many solicitors now out of action which leaves sellers even more vulnerable." 

Sellers are advised to check whether buyers are bona fide by ensuring that they are members of The National Association of Property Buyers which ensures buyers are members of The Property Ombudsman Scheme, giving vendors financial redress should anything go wrong.

Mr Rolande continued "If a sale is agreed to a buyer who isn't in The NAPB the seller is not protected whatsoever. Despite the dire market conditions, many of our members are still purchasing property but it is vital that sellers ensure they are dealing with a reputable member firm and not a fraudster."

The NAPB is a not-for-profit organisation run by a group of property professionals committed to raising standards in the sector. It also gives information to sellers to help them decide whether selling to a professional buyer is right for them or not. 

...ENDS...

Newsdesk Notes

Jonathan Rolande is director of The NAPB and also a director of professional property buying company House Buy Fast. 

For more information please contact Jonathan 

jonathan@napb.co.uk or 0782 577 6528

About The NAPB

Formed 2013 by a small group of professionals determined to raise standards in the cash buyer sector. All members must belong to The Property Ombudsman Scheme and adhere to a Code of Practice that ensures sellers are given alternative routes to sale, are treated fairly and allowed to make an informed choice and have a right of redress should anything go wrong.

Members purchase approximately £2bn of UK property per annum. Since it's inception 7 years ago, there have been no upheld complaints against member firms.