Bengaluru homebuyers raise alarm over broker-driven price inflation in resale market

Bengaluru's surging real estate prices have sparked growing concern among homebuyers, particularly in the resale segment where brokers are reportedly listing properties at significantly inflated rates. Recent online discussions have spotlighted cases where brokers repost owner-listed homes with price markups of 30–40%, creating confusion and mistrust among prospective buyers.

Also read: Bengaluru: Airport-linked real estate zones see prices surge up to 120% in four years

Properties listed by the owner on a lesser-known portals were found on a popular real estate site at a much higher price, posted by a broker. Such practices have raised questions about the transparency of property pricing and the credibility of online listings.

Buyers report difficulty identifying genuine owner listings, even on platforms advertised as zero-brokerage. Broker interference, even in smaller micro-markets, has made accurate price discovery a challenge. Some brokers allegedly take advantage of low transaction volumes by inflating prices to maximize returns on limited sales.

Sellers, too, often hand over their listings to brokers with a fixed price target but may not monitor how the property is marketed. This gap allows brokers to hike prices without owner oversight.

Buyers are advised to thoroughly verify listing sources, demand clear documentation such as sanctioned plans and occupancy certificates, and avoid listings lacking transparency on area specifications. Experts emphasize the importance of checking location advantages, government approvals, and builder reputation before committing to a purchase in Bengaluru’s volatile resale housing market.