The Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA) has confirmed it is investigating allegations of unlawful property practices involving Zeerust, North West, alleged estate agent Ester Smit.

The PPRA confirmed this week that it is currently investigating Smit following complaints received from members of the public alleging that she has been practising as a property practitioner without a valid Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC).

“As a result of these complaints, Smit has been formally charged with contravening Section 48 of the Property Practitioners Act, 22 of 2019, which prohibits any person from performing the functions of a property practitioner without holding a valid and current FFC issued by the PPRA,” the authority stated.

The PPRA added that Smit was scheduled to appear before a PPRA-appointed adjudicator on December 4, 2025.

“However, she failed to appear at the hearing, and the matter was subsequently postponed. The PPRA confirms that should Smit fail to appear at the next scheduled hearing, the matter will proceed in her absence in accordance with the provisions of the Act.” 

The PPRA confirmed it has received four complaints related to this matter, all under active investigation.

“The authority continues to engage with affected consumers and relevant stakeholders as part of its investigative and enforcement processes,” the PPRA said.

It reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers and upholding the integrity of the property sector.

“Members of the public are urged to exercise caution when dealing with individuals who claim to be property practitioners, particularly where upfront payments are requested,” the PPRA said.

In addition, it advised consumers to conduct proper due diligence before entering into any property-related transactions and before paying over any money.

According to the PPRA, at a minimum, consumers should ensure that the individual they are dealing with has a valid and current FFC issued by the authority, and that the individual is employed by a firm that is registered with it and holds a valid FFC, and also operates a valid trust account with a recognised banking institution.

“No payments are made into personal bank accounts – all monies must be paid into a registered firm’s trust account, and no business is conducted with any person who cannot produce an FFC upon request.” 

The PPRA also encouraged any consumers who believe they may have been affected by unlawful property practices to report the matter to the authority without delay.

“Vigilance and verification remain critical in preventing fraud and protecting consumers in the property sector,” the PPRA stated.

loyiso.sidimba@inl.co.za

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