The Ministry of Housing in Fiji has issued a warning to the public regarding the purchase of properties in informal settlements. This advisory follows an incident where an individual lost $10,000 in a cash deal for a home that had no formal ownership documentation.
The ministry reported that the original landowner has reappeared, claiming ignorance of the transaction and requesting the buyer to vacate the property.
In a statement, the ministry urged prospective homebuyers to be extremely cautious about acquiring properties in these informal areas. They noted that while these settlements may offer more affordable housing options, they often lack essential infrastructure and legal safeguards, putting residents at risk of eviction and unpredictable development.
“Informal settlements in Fiji are commonly situated on land that is not legally owned or leased, which renders any property transaction highly precarious,” the ministry stated. They warned that residents could face eviction at any moment without prior notice, leading to significant financial losses and displacement.
The ministry also highlighted that such settlements often do not have access to basic services like electricity, water, and sanitation, which can adversely affect residents’ quality of life and health.
“Numerous reports have emerged of unwary homebuyers who have invested large amounts of money in properties in these areas, only to later find themselves denied ownership and facing eviction,” they added.
The ministry strongly recommends that potential homebuyers focus on properties in well-established, legally recognized neighborhoods, which offer enhanced security, stability, and access to essential services.