The Ministry of Housing has issued a warning to Fijians regarding the purchase of properties in informal settlements across the nation. This advisory follows a concerning case where an individual lost $10,000 in cash while attempting to buy a home that lacked any formal ownership documentation.
The ministry expressed disappointment as the original landowner has now appeared, denying knowledge of the sale and demanding that the buyer leave the property. In a recent statement, the ministry strongly encouraged potential homebuyers to proceed with caution when considering properties in these informal areas in Fiji.
“While these settlements may present lower-cost housing options, they often lack essential infrastructure and legal protections, posing considerable risks of eviction and development,” the ministry stated. They highlighted that homes in informal settlements are typically built on land that is not legally owned or leased, making such transactions highly unstable.
Residents in these areas may face eviction without prior notice, which can lead to severe financial losses and displacement. The ministry also pointed out that these settlements frequently lack access to basic services like electricity, water, and sanitation, significantly affecting residents’ quality of life and health.
“Numerous reports have emerged of unsuspecting homebuyers who have made substantial payments for properties in these regions, only to find themselves denied ownership and facing eviction,” the ministry added.
The Ministry of Housing strongly recommends that potential buyers focus on properties in established, legally recognized neighborhoods, as these options provide better security, stability, and access to necessary services.