Paying Deposits and Down Payments Safely — Avoid Getting Scammed

A deposit is the first money you pay to reserve a purchase — and a favorite point for scammers, since buyers rush for fear of losing the property. Paying safely keeps you from losing money before you even get the home.

Verify before paying

Before any deposit, confirm the payee is the true owner — check the original deed against their ID. For resale via an agent, verify with the owner directly; never pay a "representative" without a power of attorney.

Pay with proof

Do	Why
Transfer to owner's account	Clear, traceable proof
Avoid cash	No payment trail
Keep slips and contract	Evidence in disputes

The contract protects you

Every deposit should come with a written sale agreement stating price, transfer date and refund terms — e.g., refund if the loan is rejected. It legally binds both sides.

References

• Civil and Commercial Code — deposits and sale agreements
• Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB)