How to Know if a Real Estate Agency is Legal in Colombia? A Guide to Avoid Fraud

1. Verify Its Registration with the Chamber of Commerce 📜✅

All real estate agencies in Colombia must be registered with the Chamber of Commerce in the city where they operate. To check this:

• Visit the website of the respective Chamber of Commerce.

• Look for the registered business consultation option.

• Enter the name of the real estate agency or its NIT (Tax Identification Number).

• Check that its status is active and that its business activity is related to real estate services.

If the company is not registered or appears inactive, it is a red flag.

2. Confirm Its Registration with the Property Guild (Lonja de Propiedad Raíz) 🏢🔍

Reputable real estate agencies are often affiliated with the Property Guild (Lonja de Propiedad Raíz), an entity that groups certified companies in the sector. You can consult directly with the Lonja in your city to verify if the company is registered.

Some of the main Property Guilds in Colombia include:

• Bogotá: Lonja de Propiedad Raíz de Bogotá

• Medellín: Lonja de Propiedad Raíz de Medellín y Antioquia

• Cali: Lonja de Propiedad Raíz del Valle del Cauca

• Santa Marta: Lonja de Propiedad Raíz del Magdalena

3. Check Its NIT and RUT with the DIAN 🏦💰

The NIT (Tax Identification Number) and RUT (Unique Tax Registry) are mandatory documents for any legally established company. You can check on the DIAN (National Tax and Customs Directorate) website to verify if the real estate agency is registered and pays taxes.

Steps to check:

1. Go to the DIAN website (www.dian.gov.co).

2. Look for the NIT or RUT Consultation option.

3. Enter the real estate agency’s NIT number.

4. Verify that it is active and that its business activity is related to real estate services.

4. Check Its Reputation and Customer Reviews ⭐👥

A reliable real estate agency will have references from clients and an online presence. You can:

• Look for reviews on Google Maps, Facebook, and other social media.

• Check forums and real estate portals for other users' experiences.

• Ask for success stories and recently sold or rented properties.

• Verify its website and social media presence. A legal company usually has a professional digital footprint.

If you find multiple complaints or fraud reports, it is best to look for another option.

5. Request Documentation and Check Contract Details 📝🔍

Before signing any contract, review the following documents:

• Certificate of Existence and Legal Representation from the Chamber of Commerce.

• The agency’s RUT.

• Operating license, if applicable.

• Service agreement with clear clauses on fees, timelines, and responsibilities.

If the agency avoids showing these documents or the contracts contain suspicious clauses, it is a red flag.

6. Verify That the Real Estate Agent Is Certified 🎓✅

In Colombia, real estate agents do not require a special license, but professionals often have real estate certifications issued by institutions such as:

• Lonja de Propiedad Raíz.

• Camacol (Colombian Chamber of Construction).

• Universities and training institutions in real estate management.

Ask for the agent’s name and verify if they have certifications or experience in the industry.

7. Check If the Agency Has Been Reported for Fraud 🚨⚠️

If you have doubts about a real estate agency, check if it has been reported for scams through:

• SIC (Superintendence of Industry and Commerce): You can check if there are official complaints against the agency.

• National Police (CAI Virtual): The Police website provides fraud reports.

• Social media and forums: Look for negative comments or fraud warnings about the company.

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