The Ministry of Housing in Fiji has issued a warning to citizens regarding the purchase of properties in informal settlements throughout the country. This advisory follows a recent incident in which an individual lost $10,000 in cash for a home that had no formal ownership documentation.
As it turns out, the original landowner returned, claiming ignorance of the transaction and asking the buyer to vacate the premises. In a statement released, the ministry emphasized the need for prospective homebuyers to be extremely cautious when considering properties in these informal settlements.
“Although these areas may provide more affordable housing options, they often lack necessary infrastructure, legal protection, and are at high risk of eviction and development,” the ministry noted.
The ministry explained that properties in informal settlements are usually located on land that is not legally owned or leased, thereby rendering any property transactions highly precarious. Residents in such areas could face eviction at any time without prior notice, leading to significant financial losses and displacement.
Additionally, these settlements frequently lack access to essential services like electricity, water, and sanitation, which can adversely affect residents’ quality of life and health. The Ministry highlighted numerous cases where unsuspecting buyers have paid large sums for properties in these settlements, only to later find themselves denied ownership and faced with eviction.
The ministry strongly recommends that prospective homebuyers focus on properties situated in established, legally recognized neighborhoods, as these offer more security, stability, and access to essential services.