Agree the payment arrangements in advance

Ask the bank or regulated payment provider about account requirements, transfer documentation, processing, charges and exchange rates. Requirements can differ with the provider, transaction and customer.

Keep evidence of the source and purpose of funds available through the appropriate secure process. Do not send identity or banking documents through an initial website enquiry.

Verify who should receive the money

Have the recipient and authority to receive funds confirmed in the transaction documents. Independently verify instructions using an established contact method, particularly if account details change.

An instruction sent by email or messaging should not be the only basis for changing a payment destination. Ask the relevant professional to explain any unexpected third-party recipient.

Connect the payment to the transaction

• What is the money for: reservation, deposit, instalment, fees or completion?
• Which conditions have to be satisfied before it is paid or released?
• Who holds it and under what written arrangement?
• What happens if checks fail or completion cannot take place?
• What receipt and transaction evidence will you receive?

Allow for currency and timing

Compare the actual amount received after exchange and charges. Leave time for legitimate bank checks rather than making a hurried transfer to meet an informal deadline.

Do not rely on historic claims about inflation, currency stability or the availability of finance. Confirm current terms directly with the provider. Gambia Property Sales is not a bank or payment service.