Updated: September 7, 2026
Spotting a dishonest real estate agent is crucial to protecting your interests in any real estate transaction. Here are several potential warning signs that could suggest someone is not being entirely truthful or may be attempting to mislead:
1. Pressure Tactics
- Urges you to make quick decisions without giving you time to think.
- Insists on making offers or accepting deals that you’re uncomfortable with.
2. Misleading Information
- Provides false or exaggerated information about properties.
- Misrepresents their experience, qualifications, or past successes.
3. Hidden Fees
- Fails to disclose all fees upfront.
- Adds unexpected costs at the last minute.
4. Dual Agency Deception
- Does not fully explain the implications of representing both buyer and seller (dual agency).
- Prioritizes their commission over your best interests in dual agency situations.
5. Unethical Behaviour
- Encourages you to falsify information on loan applications or other documents.
- Suggests breaking the law or skirting legal requirements.
6. Property Flaws Concealment
- Attempts to hide or downplay significant issues with a property.
- Refuses to provide or discourages obtaining a professional inspection.
7. Fake Offers
- Invents non-existent competing offers to pressure you into bidding higher.
- Lies about the level of interest in a property.
8. Inflated Market Value Claims
- Overstates the value of a property to encourage you to make an offer or accept a listing.
- Gives unrealistic price expectations to secure your business.
9. Lack of Transparency
- Avoids providing clear and detailed explanations of contracts and terms.
- Refuses to show you all the documentation related to the transaction.
10. Conflict of Interest
- Does not disclose relationships with other parties involved in the transaction (e.g., mortgage brokers, inspectors, contractors).
- Prioritizes deals that benefit them personally or financially over what is best for you.
11. Pushy Recommendations
- Pushes you to use specific lenders, inspectors, or other professionals without giving you multiple options.
- Has undisclosed financial ties to these recommended services.
12. Unlicensed Activity
- Cannot provide proof of a valid real estate license.
- Engages in real estate activities that require a license but operates without one.
Protecting Yourself
What can be done to protect yourself?
- Verify Credentials: Check the agent’s license status and history with the relevant real estate regulatory authority, see https://www.bcfsa.ca/public-resources/real-estate/find-professional
- Get Referrals: Ask for and check references from past clients.
- Do Your Own Research: Independently verify information provided by the agent, such as property values and market conditions.
- Read Reviews: Look up online reviews and ratings from multiple sources.
- Consult Legal Help: If you have any doubts about the documents or processes, consider consulting a real estate attorney.
If you suspect dishonesty, it may be best to end the relationship and find a agent you can trust.