The situation: A foreigner pays brokerage fees to a real estate agent (usually half to a full month's rent) before signing the tenancy agreement, then the agent disappears or presents units that do not match what was promised.
Applicable law: Articles 963-964 of the Civil Code require the intermediary to provide the agreed service honestly and faithfully. Brokerage fees are only due on successful completion of the transaction. Real estate agents are required to hold a professional licence from the official authority.
Typical outcome: Filing a complaint with the local Housing Bureau or Market Supervision Administration if the agent is licensed, or with the police for fraud if bad faith is proven. Many major letting agencies (Lianjia, 58.com) have internal refund mechanisms.
📜 Civil Code (general rules) · Awareness case
Real Estate Agent Disappears After Collecting Commission · Yalla China
🤝 Governing law: 民法典 / Civil Code Arts 963-965 (Intermediary Contract); 消费者权益保护法
You paid fees to a Chinese real estate agent to find a flat, and after payment they stopped communicating. What is the legal procedure?
Illustrative, general educational examples — not real specific facts and not legal advice; for awareness only. For an actual situation, consult a licensed lawyer.
🎓 The lesson / takeaway
Lesson: Do not pay brokerage fees before seeing the flat and agreeing on clear terms. Request a written receipt specifying the purpose of the payment and the conditions. Use reputable agencies listed on official platforms.
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026