The Economic Inspectorate and the Professional Institute of Estate Agents (BIV) launch an investigation into the Hans Imo case: “indications of deceptive business practices” | internal

Earlier, these editors showed that the website www.vastgoedmakelaarCompareren.com directs potential clients directly to the “Hans Immo” real estate office. This is while the site promises a fair comparison of more than 200 brokers. The Economic Inspectorate for Economics FPS is now opening an investigation to respond to these reports. We have done a preliminary analysis. There are indications that there may be deceptive business practices and informational obligations, for example missing information on the site such as contact details,” says company spokesperson Lien Meurisse.

“We have opened an investigation, but we cannot yet draw any conclusions from this,” Morris concludes. Secretary of State for Consumer Protection Alexia Bertrand (Open Vld) also wants to investigate the websites. At first glance, there really are a number of things that aren’t here. For example, if the promises about the comparison range are false, we are talking about deception and this is forbidden. In addition, there is a suspicion of false reviews and this practice has recently been outlawed. Therefore, it is entirely justified that the Economic Inspectorate has opened an investigation into these questionable practices.”

“Consumers have a right to correct information, especially when it comes to large expenses, such as buying a home,” adds Bertrand. The Professional Institute of Estate Agents (BIV) has also opened a disciplinary investigation into the Hans Immo case. In doing so, they check whether ethical violations have been committed. The real estate agency can be subject to disciplinary action. BIV says that anyone who wants to find a recognized real estate agent in their area can also visit Search Engine On the BIV website.

If irregularities are found at Hans Immo, the office risks fines between €208 and €80,000 or up to 4 percent of annual gross sales in the most recent closed financial year.