Estate agents who bend the rules

2017-08-24

Estate agents should protect the interests of their clients and should not make any misrepresentation to them. Otherwise, they may be subject to disciplinary action by the Estate Agents Authority.

Wrong photos put agency on spot

2017-07-27

Estate agents must act in an honest manner and not issue any advertisements containing misleading or wrong information. Otherwise, they may be subject to disciplinary action by the Estate Agents Authority.

Agents failed to disclose interest

2017-06-29

Estate agents should make a full disclosure of any conflict of interest to their clients in relation to the properties they handle. Otherwise, they may be subject to disciplinary action by the Estate Agents Authority.

Estate agent sanctioned for distorting facts of sale

2017-06-08

Estate agents should act according to their clients’ instructions and should not commit misrepresentation to clients.

“Tenancy Guide for Non-local Students in Hong Kong”

2017-05-22

The booklet introduces to non-local students the important points to note about renting a flat in Hong Kong.
Click to read

Agents must check agreements thoroughly

2017-05-18

Estate agents should ensure that all parties agree to all the information and terms provided in a tenancy agreement, and they should explain accurately to clients each clause.

Pay attention to prices

2017-04-27

Estate agents should not make any misrepresentations to clients on the property purchase price and relevant stamp duties. Otherwise, they may be subject to disciplinary action by the Estate Agents Authority.

Don’t draw a blank on commissions

2017-03-30

WHEN arranging for clients to sign a provisional agreement for sale and purchase of a property, estate agents should not leave essential terms blank – such as the total amount of commission payable by the purchaser and/or the vendor. Otherwise, they may be subject to disciplinary action by the Estate Agents Authority.

Don’t pay deposits directly to vendor

2017-03-02

It may be risky for purchasers to pay deposits directly to vendors – especially in the transaction of properties involving undischarged mortgages.
Estate agents should warn the purchaser of the risks involved, and advise the client to stakehold the deposits by a firm of solicitors before arranging for the parties to sign the provisional agreement for sale and purchase.

Ascertain risks before acquisition

2017-02-09

BUYING properties involving a deed of gift or assignment at nil consideration may involve risks – such as difficulties in obtaining a sufficient mortgage from a bank. Estate agents handling related property transactions should inform purchasers to seek legal advice. Otherwise, they may be subject to disciplinary action by the Estate Agents Authority.