Verification you can ask to see
Verified property in Cameroon means, at BV, that specific checks have been done and the evidence is stored. We never display a level unless the evidence is on file, we date-stamp every level, and we re-verify when a listing is relisted or after six months.
Our rule: if we haven’t checked it, we don’t say we have. A listing with no badge is not “unverified and unsafe” — it simply means the checks are not finished yet.
Listing verified
- Owner or mandated seller’s identity checked against their ID
- Written mandate to sell or let, signed by the owner
- Phone number and email confirmed
- Photos taken by BV or confirmed as genuine — no copied images
Documents reviewed
- Ownership or title document viewed; type and reference recorded
- Checked by a lawyer or notary where applicable
- No visible conflict with the seller’s story
Site visited
- BV staff visited the property on a recorded date
- GPS location recorded
- Condition matches the listing
Verification reduces risk; it does not replace your own legal advice. Before you buy, have your own notary or lawyer confirm the title at the land registry.
Five warning signs of a property scam
Most property fraud in Cameroon follows a few familiar patterns. If you see any of these, stop and check before paying anything.
The “owner” can’t show a title in their name
Or offers a photocopy only, or a title for a different plot.
You’re pushed to pay a deposit fast
“Another buyer is ready today” is the oldest pressure tactic there is.
Payment to a personal account or in cash
Especially to someone other than the owner, or before any written agreement.
No visit allowed, or excuses about access
A genuine seller lets you — or someone you trust — see the property.
The price is far below similar properties
Bargains exist, but a deep discount plus urgency is a classic combination.
If you think you’re being scammed
Stop all payments, keep every message and receipt, and do not sign anything further. Speak to a lawyer and report it to the police.
If you’ve already paid
Contact your bank immediately, gather your evidence and get legal advice. The sooner you act, the more options you have.
If it’s a BV listing
Tell us straight away using the form below. We review every report and suspend a listing while we investigate.
If you ever see something that doesn’t look right, tell us here
A listing, a message claiming to be from BV, a request for payment — anything. Reports can be anonymous.
Verification questions
Does a BV verification guarantee the property is free of problems?
No. Verification records specific checks we have done and when. It reduces risk but is not a legal guarantee. Always use your own notary or lawyer before buying.
Can I see the evidence behind a verification level?
Ask us. We’ll explain what was checked and, where the owner agrees, show you the documents during your viewing or through your lawyer.
How often are listings re-verified?
When a listing is relisted, and at least every six months. If a re-check is due, the badge is hidden until it’s done.
Will BV ever ask me to pay a deposit to a personal account?
No. If anyone claiming to be from BV asks you to pay a personal account, do not pay and report it to us immediately.