Login
iscover
A Victorian real estate agent’s representative is under fire after allegedly using pressure sales tactics and lying to home owners while doorknocking homes.
The representative of a real estate agent is set to front the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal after he allegedly used pressure sales tactics while doorknocking homes.
Akashdeep Singh Purba, 33, from Craigieburn, allegedly committed the breaches between February and April 2023 while working at The ELEET real estate agency.
While Purba doorknocked residents’ homes with offers to sell their properties, he allegedly convinced them to sign sales contracts described as non-binding.
However, according to Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV), the contracts contained substantial costs, including commissions, if the residents withdrew.
“Those who tried to pull out of contracts were left with unexpected debts, including commissions – and in some cases, were prevented from selling with anyone else,” CAV said.
The regulator said that Purba’s alleged actions included failing to follow his client’s instructions and to act in their best interests, and failing to exercise due care, skill and diligence in performing his role.
Additionally, CAV alleged that he was unprofessional or acted in a way detrimental to the agency and the industry’s reputation.
The matter is scheduled for a VCAT directions hearing on 22 July.
In light of the incident, the regulator issued a warning to the public about real estate agents who come to the door.
“CAV is reminding people that if they receive a knock on the door from a real estate agent, they have the right to ask them to leave immediately. If let in, they can also be asked to leave at any time,” it said.
“Consumers wanting to sell their property through a real estate agent should also do their research to choose one who meets expectations.”
“Disciplinary proceedings can result in reprimands, fines, and licence suspension or cancellation,” it concluded.
You are not authorised to post comments.
Comments will undergo moderation before they get published.