The Office of the Superintendent of Real Estate (OSRE) has issued a public warning this week about two entities that may be attempting to defraud prospective buyers and renters on the island. The Office has identified communications and online adverts that use the names “Fortress Real Estate” and “Butterfield Realtor” as potentially misleading.

Under the Real Estate Act, the OSRE is tasked with protecting residents from fraudulent activities in the property market. The warning urges anyone who has received offers or requests for deposits from these organisations to verify their credentials through the OSRE’s official website or by calling the Office’s helpline.

The Office stresses that legitimate real‑estate agencies must hold a valid licence issued by the OSRE and that their contact details should match the information on file. It also recommends that buyers and tenants retain written records of any correspondence and to be wary of requests for large sums of money or personal data before a formal contract has been signed.

Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the OSRE, which will investigate and, if necessary, take enforcement action. The Office’s vigilance comes amid a broader effort to ensure that Bermuda’s property market remains transparent and trustworthy for both locals and foreign investors.