The Ministry of Housing in Fiji is advising prospective home buyers to be highly cautious when looking at properties in informal settlements. The Ministry highlighted that while these areas might present more affordable housing options, they often lack critical infrastructure and legal protections, exposing residents to risks of eviction and development complications.
Informal settlements are usually established on land that is not legally owned or rented, making any property transaction risky. Buyers in these areas face the threat of unexpected eviction, which can result in substantial financial losses and displacement.
Moreover, these settlements frequently do not provide basic services such as electricity, water, and sanitation, which can negatively affect residents’ quality of life and health. There have been numerous instances of unaware buyers spending large amounts on properties in these locations, only to find themselves denied ownership and faced with eviction.
One notable case mentioned by the Ministry involved an individual, referred to as Person A, who bought a home in an informal settlement for $10,000 in cash. Although Person A paid the full amount upfront, they received no official documentation proving ownership. Subsequently, the original landowner reappeared, claiming ignorance of the sale and demanding that Person A vacate the property.
The Ministry strongly recommends that potential buyers focus on properties in established, legally recognized neighborhoods, as these locations provide greater security, stability, and access to essential services.