Rep: Don’t pay realtors to show properties

By The STAR STAFF

Representative José ‘Che’ Pérez called on consumers to report to the Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO) any real estate brokers and realtors who request money in advance in order to make appointments to show properties for sale or rent.

“In recent months we have seen a surge in complaints across social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Purchase as Rental. That is totally illegal. No rector or broker can claim any compensation for showing a property,” said the Representative who has held meetings with officials of the Association of Realtors to together mitigate this problem.

“We call on any consumer who faces a similar situation – a request for money to show a property – to immediately contact the DACO. You can do it in person, by visiting the regional offices, or through the portal www.daco.pr.gov , as well as through your social networks DACO a tu Favor. Never pay because they show you a property, go to the authorities because it is illegal,” added the legislator.

Pérez recalled that realtors and brokers are under the protection of Law 10-1994 (Law to Regulate the Real Estate Business and the Profession of a Broker, Seller or Real Estate Company in Puerto Rico) which empowers DACO to evaluate complaints against allegations of irregularities in the practice of that profession.

The At Large Representative for the New Progressive Party has promoted a series of investigations into the housing rental and purchase market in Puerto Rico in the face of multiple complaints of irregularities.