Property & Investment Scams to Avoid

Your retirement savings are a target. Property and investment scams aimed at older expats are practised and persuasive — but they share tell-tale patterns you can learn to spot.

The schemes to know

• “Guaranteed” high returns — any investment promising safe, high, guaranteed returns is a red flag. Real investments don’t work that way.
• Dubious property deals — off-plan projects that never complete, or “ownership” structures designed to sidestep the land rules.
• Pressure plays — urgency, “limited spots,” or “decide today” to stop you checking.
• Affinity scams — someone who befriends you first, then introduces the “opportunity.”

The red flags, in one line each

• It sounds too good to be true (it is).
• You’re rushed or pressured.
• Returns are “guaranteed.”
• You’re discouraged from using your own lawyer or adviser.
• You’re asked to move money through informal channels.

The simple rules that protect you

1. Never rush. A real opportunity survives you taking a week and a second opinion.
2. Be sceptical of guarantees. Walk away from “guaranteed” returns.
3. Use your own independent lawyer for any property deal.
4. Keep money in regulated channels.
5. Talk to someone you trust before committing serious money.

The bottom line

The scammers rely on excitement and urgency. Your defence is calm and a second opinion. Protect your savings with simple discipline — slow down, verify independently, and never let anyone hurry you. See also romance scams.