7 Common Frauds to Avoid When Buying Custom Luxury Home Decor on CustomMade

Stolen Artisan Portfolio: Scammers may present the work of legitimate artists as their own. Always verify the seller's history and request proof of their original creations.

Plated Metal vs. Solid Gold: Be wary of listings that ambiguously describe metal content. Ensure clarity on whether you are purchasing solid gold or a less valuable plated item.

Fake CAD Rendering Bait: Some sellers use sophisticated computer-generated designs to entice buyers, but the actual product may not match the rendering. Always look for real product photos or testimonials.

Indefinite Production Delay: Scammers may accept orders and then provide constant, vague excuses for extreme delays, often with no intention of delivering the product.

Off-Platform Deposit Request: Legitimate sellers on CustomMade will conduct transactions through the platform. Requests for deposits or full payment via external methods (like wire transfers or personal checks) are a major red flag.

Sourced-from-China Resell: Be cautious of sellers who claim to be artisans but are merely reselling mass-produced items from overseas, often at inflated prices, misrepresenting them as unique custom pieces.

Material Grade Downselling: Sellers might promise high-grade materials but deliver items made with inferior substitutes. Scrutinize material descriptions and, if possible, request certifications or samples.