A real estate fraud was averted last week when a Bermuda realtor confirmed to a potential victim that she was about to be scammed.

Suspicious activity by the supposed owner of a rental property, and a price offered lower than the listed price, led to a concerned call to the listed realtor.

Bermuda Realty Coldwell Banker’s intervention stopped the woman from handing over thousands of dollars.

A spokeswoman for the realtor said they had been alerted by visitors to their own website that a copycat Facebook advertisement claimed to list the property at a lower price.

Authorities have been warning Bermudians for some time about fraudsters, scammers and an increasing array of schemes designed to separate Bermudians from their cold, hard cash.

But last week’s real estate scam is a classic example of the continuum of sophisticated tricks being used by criminals.

Authorities have been made aware of the fraudster’s attempt to con the would-be tenant out of thousands of dollars.

The Smith’s property was put on the rental market for $5,000 per month and advertised on the Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty website.

Someone identifying themselves as the owner, copied the photo and some of the information and advertised it on Facebook Marketplace for $3,000, claiming to be the owner.

Bermuda Realty is aware of at least one prospective tenant who unwittingly entered into discussions with the impostor, who told her by e-mail: “Since nobody lives there, (it) is ready for move in anytime. But I'm flexible. I'm looking for a long-term contract, unlimited, until further notice.”

The e-mail stated: “I'm the owner of the apartment (was bought as an investment). Currently, I live in Berlin along with my family. In the past, we rented it for short periods, through (website), but now, due our moving abroad, I want to find a long-term tenant.

“I'm sorry for the long e-mail, but I would like to have some information about my potential tenant before we move forward to a viewing.”

The communication requested the desired move-in date; the number of people occupying the unit, and whether there was anyone who may play/practise a musical instrument.

The e-mail further asked if there was money set aside for the security deposit and first month’s rent; anything that may interrupt the ability to pay; and what landlord or employer references there were.

The e-mail continued: “The monthly rent is 3000$ (water, gas + internet and one parking space). The electricity bill is excluded.

“Also, a security deposit is required (3000$). This deposit will be refunded at the end of the contract. The apartment looks exactly like in the pictures (the pictures were taken recently).”

A Bermuda Realty spokeswoman conceded that the full extent of communication made the brazen scam somewhat believable.

The fraudster said because of trouble tenants in the past: “You will have to book and pay a one-month deposit to (website) in order to confirm the reservation.

“This payment will be just a formality, and it will not commit you to rent my apartment. Your payment will remain in the custody of (website) until you will check the apartment and move in.

“From the moment your payment will be confirmed by the agency, you will have to choose the option that suits you:

1, I can send you the keys to your address (I will use DHL Express air freight so you can receive the keys package in maximum three days).

The rental contact will be signed electronically.

2, I can come personally to show you the apartment and sign the contract in 7-10 days.

“As a safety net for you, the 24-hour free cancellation option will be active in the listing all the time.

“If you will decide to rent the apartment, this payment will be used in the rental contract. If not, you will simply cancel the booking and (website) will refund your deposit.

“The (website) services are necessary only until you inspect the apartment and sign the lease agreement. After that, you can deposit the monthly payments directly to my bank account.

“I would also like to exchange an identity document (ID or passport), for a mutual trust.”