Belarusian family's dream home in Minsk turns into a suspected scam
A family's move from the Gomel region to Minsk in May 2025 turned into a troubling experience when their apartment purchase took an unexpected turn. Victoria and her relatives had planned to buy a two-room flat on Surganova Street for $78,000, but the seller's odd behaviour raised suspicions of a possible scam.
The family intended to sell their country house to fund the purchase. The apartment belonged to a 69-year-old woman who claimed she wanted to avoid mortgage payments. However, after agreeing to the sale, the seller became reluctant to leave the property.
Victoria grew uneasy when the woman insisted the real estate agent was secretly working for another agency. To protect herself, Victoria asked for the seller's details to be recorded in medical records—a step she hoped would add a layer of security. Despite her concerns, no official reports of property fraud in Minsk were documented between March 2024 and March 2026, though general warnings about real estate scams remained in place.
The situation left Victoria convinced that the seller might be part of a deception. The family's plans to settle in the capital now face uncertainty as they navigate the risks of the transaction.
The incident highlights the challenges buyers can face even in markets without widespread fraud reports. Victoria's request for medical registration of the seller reflects her attempts to secure the deal. For now, the family's relocation remains on hold while they assess their next steps.
