A batch of listings has been investigated by Zoopla. The portal said the listings had been uploaded for the first time on Tuesday.
EYE had sent Zoopla a number of what looked like suspicious listings.
The portal named no names, but last night Zoopla told EYE: “These listings were uploaded to our website yesterday for the first time and as soon as we became aware of them we contacted the relevant agent member for verification.
“We take these matters very seriously and have a dedicated compliance team whose sole job is to protect the integrity of our listings and will ensure that the appropriate action is taken asap.”
Separately, Rightmove has announced an inquiry into so-called portal juggling.
Define “Suspicious” listing” please?
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The word is that some on the online only call centre listers are removing their properties from the market and relisting them as new – possibly because this is the only way they can re-generate interest in their tired listings. Please note I have not used the word “agent” to describe them as they are not really agents but just call centre listing companies.
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Add in the fact that some agents appear to be using a similar technique to falsify their average percentage sold price figure claims amongst other abuses and you have the making of criminal proceedings at some point (especially where any firms that were using such a practice have sought or are seeking money from investors)
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I would argue this has been going on for years, they cannot manage the problem. Just think of the man hours and stock to go through. It also doesn’t help them to admit it happens or the fact that the claims they can make of stock to bolster their market position.
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If a few hardy souls with a couple of gallons of caffeine and a determination to spot illegal practices between them can pull off an immense of proof from Zoopla and Rightmove, I’m quite sure that the two portals themselves can pick it up and deal with it if they really want to avoid being seen as complicit in criminal activities on an industrial scale
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