Unlicensed agent faces sale charges

Photo / File

Woman sold property that was not on the market to overseas buyers, police allege Morgan Tait and Anna Leask

Police have charged an unlicensed Auckland real estate agent after she allegedly sold a property that was not on the market.

The woman was charged yesterday in relation to a number of property deals in South Auckland. The Herald understands she is not a licensed realtor.

One of the charges related to a Clevedon property that was not on the market but "sold" to overseas buyers for a large sum of money, said Detective Senior Sergeant Aaron Proctor.

"The woman is alleged to have defrauded victims while acting as a real estate agent for the sale of properties in South Auckland.

"In one of the cases, an overseas couple paid a large sum of money on a Clevedon property that was not for sale."

The woman will appear in the Pukekohe District Court next week to face the charges.

Real Estate Agents Authority (REAA) chief executive Kevin Lampen-Smith said the authority was aware of the police action and was also investigating claims against the woman.

He said consumers should always check the REAA's online register of licensed agents. The register also provides information on any disciplinary history an agent may have.

"We will investigate any instances where we believe that someone is practising as a real estate agent who is not licensed to do so," said Mr Lampen-Smith.

Mr Proctor said people should report any suspicious behaviour by real estate agents to the REAA and never pay money if they had doubts or concerns about an agent.

• Check the REAA's online register at reaa.govt.nz or phone 0800-367-7322