The Bermudian government has issued a new consumer advisory alerting residents and visitors to the threat of fake real‑estate advertisements posted by unlicensed agents online.

The Bermuda Real Estate Commission (BREC) said that a growing number of deceptive listings have been circulating on social media and popular property‑search sites. The ads often promise an unusually low price or a “free” commission, only to require payment in advance or to reveal a non‑existent property.

Under Bermuda’s Real Estate Act, a person must hold a valid real‑estate licence or be authorised by a licensed broker to market or sell property. The Commission’s warning includes a list of red flags – no company registration number, no BREC licence number, and “too good to be true” terms.

Consumers who suspect a scam should contact BREC’s hotline at 876‑555‑1234 or report the listing via the Commission’s online form. The agency also advises that all property transactions be conducted through a licensed agent and that buyers obtain a written contract before any payment.

BREC’s spokesperson, Ms. Jane Thompson, said the commission is increasing its monitoring of online platforms and plans to collaborate with major social‑media firms to remove fraudulent listings.

The advisory comes as Bermuda’s real‑estate market continues to attract foreign buyers and investors, prompting the government to strengthen consumer protection measures and ensure transparency in property transactions.