I want to purchase a second-hand property

Members of the public can ascertain whether an individual or company holds a valid estate agent’s or salesperson’s licence through the “Licence List” on the EAA website. By simply entering the name of the individual, the name of the estate agency company, its business name, or its number of statement of particulars of business (“SPOB”), one can ascertain whether the individual and/or company currently holds a valid licence. The public can also visit the EAA’s office during office hours to inspect in person the licence Register kept by the EAA.

If someone deliberately impersonates a licensed estate agent in Hong Kong (e.g. by using their name or licence number fraudulently), the above steps alone may not be sufficient to verify his/her authenticity. The public may consider meeting the agent in person and requesting him/her to present his/her Estate Agent Card. (Reminder from the EAA: The Estate Agent Card is issued by the EAA and includes the licence holder's photo, licence number, and licence expiry date.) Additionally, you may visit the estate agency company/shop where the agent claims to work for to verify his identity.

Regardless of whether an estate agency business is conducted as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited company, each firm operating under a specific business name at each business location must apply for a SPOB from the EAA, which must be displayed in a conspicuous location at each place at which the agent carries on business as an estate agent.

If you suspect someone is impersonating a licensed estate agent in Hong Kong or engaging in estate agency work without a licence, you should report the matter to the EAA.