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Section 4 – Real Estate & Property Protection
Given your expertise as Dean Jones of Jamaica Homes, this section is essential.
How to Stay Safe
- Always use the National Land Agency (NLA) to verify titles.
- Work only with registered realtors (through the Real Estate Board of Jamaica).
- Never pay a deposit into a personal account; it should go to an attorney’s escrow account.
- Hire a licensed surveyor to confirm land boundaries.
Case in Point: Several returnees have lost homes by paying cash directly to sellers without verifying
ownership. The courts often can’t recover funds once scammers vanish.
Section 5 – Financial & Banking Scams
ATMs
- Use machines attached to banks, not isolated ones.
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Online Banking
- Don’t click on email links. Type in the bank’s website directly.
- Enable SMS alerts for all transactions.
Investments
- The Financial Services Commission (FSC) regulates licensed investment houses. If it’s not on
their website, walk away. - Avoid “friend-of-a-friend” schemes promising unrealistic returns.
Tip: Keep a USD account in addition to JMD. It offers flexibility and limits exposure to inflationary
schemes.
Section 6 – Scams in Daily Life
- Contractors: Always sign written contracts. Pay in stages (30% upfront, then in increments).
- Taxi Fares: Use red-plate taxis or trusted apps. Agree the fare beforehand.
- Street Sales: Haggle respectfully, but know the local price before you buy.