The Ministry of Housing in Fiji has issued a warning to citizens about the risks of buying properties in informal settlements across the nation. This alert follows a recent incident in which an individual lost $10,000 in cash for a house that did not have any formal ownership documentation. The original landowner subsequently reappeared, claiming ignorance of the sale and insisting that the buyer vacate the premises.
In an official statement, the ministry urged potential homebuyers to be extremely cautious when considering properties in these informal settlements. They noted that while these areas may present lower-cost housing options, they are often devoid of essential infrastructure and legal protections, exposing buyers to the risks of eviction and hazardous development.
The ministry explained that these informal settlements are generally constructed on land that is neither legally owned nor leased, making any property transaction highly precarious. Residents could be evicted without notice, which leaves them vulnerable to significant financial losses and displacement.
Furthermore, the ministry pointed out that such settlements frequently lack basic services like electricity, water, and sanitation, which can adversely affect residents’ quality of life and health.
Numerous cases of unsuspecting buyers paying large sums for properties in these areas have been reported, only for them to later find themselves denied ownership and facing eviction. The ministry strongly recommends that potential homebuyers focus on properties in well-established neighborhoods with legal recognition, as these offer greater security, stability, and access to essential services.