Property buyers to be screened by estate agents

PETALING JAYA: Potential property buyers are to be screened before meeting estate agents in a precautionary move by the Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents (MIEA).

This follows several recent cases of attacks against agents by so-called buyers.

MIEA deputy president Siva Shanker said it had no choice but to implement the steps although it would involve more work for agents and clients.

“Agents have been told to screen potential buyers and record as much information as possible like vehicle licence plate numbers before setting up appointments.

“We have also informed agents to always meet them outside the premises first before viewing and be in constant communication with their offices,” he said, adding that the institute had also come up with a set of tips for agents.

“We have informed members to verify their customers, always work in pairs, not to set viewing appointments at night and register themselves at the property's guardhouse.

“We have also told them to carry pepper spray for self-defence.

“Five cases in two months is too much,” he said, adding that the institute was convinced that the robberies involving estate agents were premeditated. - The Star