I Survived a PROPERTY SCAM in the Philippines and Lived to Tell

[@albathoughtsofficial]

The most important thing is that Paul and Baby Mae still own their property. It seems like a beautiful piece of property, and Land is the most important and valuable asset. No reason to regret purchasing that property. Mistakes have been made in the house build. Lessons learned. By all means take a break. Then maybe take another crack at building the house down the road. I'm convinced this will still work out in the long run!

[@KevinMoran-ft1kz]

its ok you trying to be magnanimous in your sympathetic comments , but its not your money

[@danp1043]

@@KevinMoran-ft1kz It's yours??

[@albathoughtsofficial]

@KevinMoran-ft1kz Not Magnanimous, just being honest. My Asawa and I have been through similar challenges and emerged on the other side.

[@Mjolnher9]

As a foreigner you don't own anything yet you take on all risk. It's also not your money 💵

[@Parabola007]

​@@Mjolnher9yeah they don't want to hear that. Shhhhh let them think she loves them for who they are. A golden raisin. Quite embarrassing everything I see this guy.

[@LeonardMarlin]

My wife and I have built 2 houses and bought a third house and remodeled it in the Philippines. We never started any work on the house or land to build until we had the title in hand. When we started any work to be done we were always on site every minute of every day during working hours 8 am to 5pm We never allowed the workers to live on site. We provide coffee and snacks in the morning before 8:00 and lunch at noon everyday. When we needed to get supplies I would have my wife go with the contractor and pay for whatever they needed to continue working. Good luck Paul.

[@Phiyedough]

I think the "contractor" might end up as part of the foundations of one of his buildings!

[@tryscience]

rotten foundations are such a shame....

[@TheSumo294]

Lots of angry customers. Plenty of who can order a thousand dollar hit

[@whitesamurai]

​@@TheSumo294 more like $200, lol

[@HarryJensen-kr4qz]

He probably fled the country

[@jbuzzy]

If he's smart, he better leave the country. Once he's gone, I think his picture should be posted online so that no matter where he goes, the truth will follow him.

[@therealmvp232]

Only thing I’m surprised about is that this contractor is still breathing.

[@Wally-j7d]

me too,

[@KutWrite]

I keep thinking of those scary, hooked machetes they use for cutting open coconuts.

[@keith-kb1zl]

Obviously, bribery is involved.. only logical explanation..

[@JesseWatson-k2p]

Some individuals might want to permanently neutralize the contracter, but first think about what prison life would be like in a Philippine prison if you did.

[@ivannovotny4552]

​@@KutWrite- Wouldn't be surprised if they find him "unalived" somewhere in the farmer's field.

[@David53D]

I was smart enough to leave the Philippines many years ago avoiding involvement in such activities.

[@GoWithKD]

What happened

[@davidsim5636]

3rd World indeed.

[@PeaceAndLove303]

Smart? Don't you mean broke or to many visa runs ?

[@danhilarious1395]

Seems like most older guys are being taken for granted like a sucker I kinda feel bad for grandpas that move there

[@jamesrecknor6752]

You and millions of Filipinos too

[@JesseWatson-k2p]

Never, ever buy or build a house in the Philippinees. The rent is cheap, and if anything goes wrong, you can just leave.

[@John-or8ze]

BINGO!!!!

[@JohnSmith-ti2kp]

@JesseWatson-K2P- I say the same thing, especially with a hostile powerful neighbor to the north eyeing everything in that area, but Americans feel like they have to own everything, it is not good enough to rent as that might imply to someone that they are not wealthy, oh the shame of it!!!

[@Drone-h2i]

Don't live in the philippines was my take. People always say we aren't in Kansas anymore, well me and my filipina wife are.

[@Steve-318]

@@JohnSmith-ti2kp He doesn't own it, it's for his wife.

[@albathoughtsofficial]

@@JesseWatson-k2p You make a good point, but the word "Never" is a bit strong. Rent is only "cheap" relative to Western or more advanced countries. But for the average Filipino, rent is expensive. So if you are happily married you should consider buying property as a form of life insurance policy. This is even more true if you have children together. Because for most people around the world, having safe and secure shelter is by far their biggest and most expensive challenge. If you can man up and take care of this one big issue for them, it will go a long way to secure their long term future. Because other than shelter, all other expenses in the Philippines such as food, water, electricity, Internet, etc. are relatively inexpensive. You do this because you love your wife and children. You wouldn't do this for a gf and if for some reason you don't trust your wife well then, that's a totally different issue. Good luck to everyone!

[@rvajna]

Never build in third world countries. Just rent.

[@klausschumacher7126]

Does it means that you shouldn't build a house in the US one of the latest banana republic??

[@Mjolnher9]

​@@klausschumacher7126it's light years ahead of the Philippines

[@DENVEROUTDOORMAN]

​@@klausschumacher7126nope US way better

[@peter-pg5yc]

i agree.

[@Mjolnher9]

@@rvajna Phillipines has the worst quality places to buy too

[@1951Ford]

There has been a couple of bloggers who revealed who the scammer is. He won't last long in the Philippines, it's just a matter of time. For me, I built a house here using local carpenters, I was the contractor, and paid them every two weeks. Also, I was on site the whole time.

[@radiodare]

Well, I mean the other point people are bringing up is that he's probably not in the country anymore because he scammed everyone and knows he's bug meat if he stays there

[@Battleneter]

The scum bag will simple move to Thailand or Vietnam etc, and pull the exact same crap over there if he hasn't already

[@RobertSweatman]

Smart Is What Smart Does

[@stan1027]

Thanks for the update. My condolences to your wife and her family. Hang in there!

[@orvillelb]

Good attitude Paul everything will work out. I’m so proud of you for quitting the cigs.

[@HarryJensen-kr4qz]

I wouldn't have ANYTHING built anywhere in the world without my direct supervision. That's just me, I've seen enough "professional" construction.

[@BrMark-cu9ih]

Condolences to Mae and the entire family ❤

[@PierreFromCanada]

Sorry to hear about your bad experience. I like your attitude. Not overly optimistic, but still on the "up-side". Remember. You have a successful KZbin career, a beautiful wife, and decent health. 👍🏼👍🏼.

[@samspade2131]

It’s a good thing. Now you don’t have to worry about squatters using the shack.

[@ntnurobert218]

Paul, I watched your video about the problems you’ve had with your contractor while building your house in the Philippines, and I completely understand your frustration. The contractor failing to perform, not securing permits, and taking the bunker are all serious issues, and it’s clear you’ve been through a lot. However, I wanted to give you some important advice, especially regarding the part where you asked the workers whether they had been paid. Here’s the issue: You have no contractual or financial relationship with those workers. Your contract is solely with the contractor, and it’s his responsibility to pay them-not yours. By asking them about their payment situation, especially on video, you risk unintentionally creating serious problems: 1. Potential Liability: Even though you are not responsible for paying the workers, by publicly acknowledging that you know they haven’t been paid, it could be construed-either legally or informally-that you bear some responsibility for their wages. This can lead to claims or expectations that are entirely outside your contractual obligations. 2. Risk of Squatting or Escalation: While I know some commenters pointed out that there’s no bunker on your property now, the risk of squatting still exists. Those workers could show up at your site, construct their own bunkers or temporary shelters, and refuse to leave until they are paid. Even though it’s not your responsibility to pay them, your involvement in their payment dispute could give them the idea that you’re the one to take up their grievances with. Once that happens, it would be extremely difficult to remove them from your property. 3. Implied Responsibility: By inserting yourself into their payment situation, you risk creating the impression-intentionally or not-that you’ve assumed some responsibility for ensuring they are paid. This is a very slippery slope, and it’s best to avoid any involvement in issues between the contractor and his workers. I understand why you might have asked-it’s natural to want to document everything to show how poorly the contractor has behaved. But my advice is this: Stay focused on your direct relationship with the contractor and avoid getting involved in any disputes between him and his workers. Their grievances need to be taken up with him, not with you. On Resolving the Contract with Your Contractor Now, about your relationship with the contractor: I believe you’re going to need to find a way to legally terminate the contract. Even though you’ve highlighted the contractor’s failings, publicly criticizing him-even without naming him directly-is likely to aggravate the situation. He knows you’re saying bad things about him, and even if you don’t have a good relationship, it’s not in your best interest to make it worse. Here’s why terminating the contract is crucial: 1. The Contractor Could Claim You Didn’t Allow Him to Perform: If the contract is still active, the contractor could come back and argue that you replaced him without giving him the opportunity to fulfill his obligations. Even if that claim is unfounded, he could say you prevented him from performing under the contract or failed to give him time to “make good” on his work. Depending on the terms of your contract (or common law provisions in the Philippines), he could claim damages for all or a portion of the value of the contract. This is why you need to ensure there’s a clear, legal termination of the contract. 2. Legal Implications for New Contractors: In some countries, if you try to bring in a second contractor while the first contract is still active, you and the new contractor could both face legal trouble. Many contractors won’t even agree to work on a project that has an unresolved contract with another contractor because they don’t want to get dragged into a dispute. 3. Paying a Termination Fee: To resolve the situation, you’ll likely need to negotiate a termination agreement, which could involve paying some sort of fee. While it’s frustrating to pay more money after what you’ve been through, it’s often worth it to get a clean legal break and move forward. I suggest working to terminate the contract as amicably as possible. Even if your relationship with the contractor is strained, avoiding further aggravation will make the process smoother. Once the contract is terminated, you’ll have the freedom to hire another contractor without any lingering legal or logistical issues. One Final Suggestion Consider deleting this video. While it’s understandable that you want to document what’s happened, the video could cause further problems by publicly acknowledging the workers haven’t been paid. It could be used against you-either legally or informally-if someone interprets it as negligence or bad faith. Removing the video eliminates this risk and prevents further aggravation with the contractor. At the end of the day, the workers’ grievances aren’t your responsibility, and your priority should be resolving your own contract with the contractor. Don’t interject yourself into the workers’ payment issues unless you’re prepared to take on that responsibility-which I’m sure you don’t want to do. I hope this advice helps, and I really hope you’re able to resolve this situation with your contractor soon. Best of luck with the project!

[@KutWrite]

The workers took back the bunk house. As a retired paralegal, I commend you on your legal analysis.. at least per US law. I would recommend your services any time!

[@keith-kb1zl]

excellent advice, you just scared numerous ex pats away from ever considering building a house there. the Philippines is still primitive when it comes to land disputes and legal matters.. even a couple local Filipina vloggers got scammed by builders.. that should be enough of a red flag for foreigners who are considering building a house there.

[@RobertGarcia-w5q]

​@@KutWriteYou are not a paralegal. Stop misleading people.

[@byronthayer8990]

Paul, the missing bunk house might be a good thing. If not, you might be dealing with squatters next! 😢

[@peterrutkowski8172]

Excellent point - plus the bunkhouse didn't look at all like a place to sleep. The plywood was probably worth $200 USD total. They did you a favor.

[@edic2619]

Keep in mind, sometimes these scamming guys keep taking unsuspectiing future customer victums back to properties to show their jobs in progress. It shows off to the victum, that he has current jobs in progress.

[@John-or8ze]

Your loses keep adding up. I figured it was the workers who took the bunk house. They wanted money and didn't care who paid them

[@danhilarious1395]

Trust me ….this is only the beginning 😅

[@Banjovi62]

Sorry to hear about your problems Paul, I am just in the process of having a 3 bedroom house built. My Filipina friend bought the land and she is overseeing the build. We employ local workers at 700 a day skilled and 600 labourer. We order materials as we need them. It seems to be working great for us.

[@Rob-gg4it]

yeah i totally agree with this approach, can do self or just hire a project manager rather than trust a builder with all the financials

[@robertmaloney2255]

So in reality, your philipeno friend is having her house built but you're paying for it

[@LeonardMarlin]

@@robertmaloney2255 As someone who's had five different Filipina girlfriends and put one through college and built two of them house's I never wanted to see them or their kids living on the street. Two things I've lived by all my life, you can't help who you fall in love with and you can't take it with you. Been married six years and have four houses and one Condo. Two are in my name my house in Florida and my condo in Davao. Our other three houses are in my wife's name because I as a non citizen of the Philippines cannot own land.

[@Banjovi62]

@@robertmaloney2255 So in reality there are some good honest filipinos that you can trust and they don't all need to be tarred with the same brush.

[@Swiss_Pinoy]

To Trust someone so blindly here in the PH is almost criminal. First Priority is to check all the paperwork, even the Applications your Contractor is supposed to turn in. You both being hands off on all that is either laziness or just stupidity (sorry for the Language). You are here since many years and should have learned that you must keep control of anything or you will never get what you want. If I would not have checked every week once or twice I would not get the House I want. It will be finished by next week.

[@tryscience]

Bingo. what was he thinking? Not Kansas.

[@jamesrecknor6752]

@@tryscience Life in a boring little Kansas town is starting to look preferable

[@tryscience]

@jamesrecknor6752 Except in the spring when you'll be twisting the night away

[@davidi8675]

And, use a lawyer that is recommended by many expats, and has US consulate recommendations. There are many, and they may be expensive by Filipino standards (inexpensive by western standards), but are still worth every penny to keep out of legal issues, and ensure all is above board

[@KutWrite]

@@tryscience Hahaha! Where'd Toto go?

[@henkdejong9051]

Property is pretty much a scam in the Philippines. Even locals who have title can easily be scammed or lose it.

[@stevebearsley2308]

No, that's not true. We don't have any problems with titles on my partner's properties.

[@henkdejong9051]

@@stevebearsley2308 Not yet is the key word.

[@jackietreehorn069]

@@stevebearsley2308 Your experience is not everyone's experience. I know a group of farmers who had their land stolen from them by wealthy developers even though they had their land titles.

[@ricksdestinationcebu]

All the disasters ,divorces,cheating,sickness and scams my followed bloggers have suffered this last year have us seriously looking to other destinations for our final retirement..

[@juliogonzalez4764]

Thailand. And don't buy.

[@jamesrecknor6752]

I knew a lot of smart, successful Filipinos in the US. None of them seemed to have any interest in going back to the Philippines.

[@KimmyPat]

I’ve lived here for 3 years married with 2 babies. I never experience any of these issues on the channels. Most of it is self induced. Don’t base your decisions on vlogs because I’m here and I’m telling you it’s not like that here. You’ll love it here if you give it a chance and make your own happiness happen. Take care and good luck

[@newafricanforum]

​@@KimmyPatat the same time don't base your decision on one person's experience 😂

[@KutWrite]

If you change your destination, you'll also have to change the name of your channel!

[@brucemerrick5834]

Sorry for all your troubles and losses, family and finances. I hope that POS get his comeuppance some day soon. As big and as bad as he supposedly said he is, there's always someone bigger or badder. And one day he will screw over that wrong person. I give you and the other victims credit for trying to warn others about this con artist and I'm sure that those efforts have already helped some people.

[@AMH-bl1ne]

You take adversity very well. Good on ya. 2025 will be stellar I'm hoping

[@Walk-retirement-travel]

This guy burning expats is one kind of danger. The guy burning Filipinos is definitely a serious danger.

[@keith-kb1zl]

Surprised they haven’t found his body parts scattered around..

[@Breavis]

I'll be honest, if this contractor did to me what he did to Paul...well, let's just say I wouldn't be making videos. Actions speak louder than words.

[@oceanproalaska2203]

You got that right, Most murders that occur in Philippines is over a land dispute or money being owed. This South African is playing with fire.

[@deanalbertson7203]

He started with "I purchased a piece of land." Mistake #1. Obviously, the best thing to do is rent, at cheap prices.

[@RobertSchaefer-nl4xp]

We're all fish sometimes. If you are a man of your word and expect the same from others; you are definitely going to get taken at one point. Don't worry about it. Keep moving forward. He will get his at some point, and suffer with the burden of looking over his shoulder until then. Keep your smile and move forward.... no time for stressing.

[@JohnSmith-ti2kp]

@RobertSchaefer-nl4p-- Good advice for ussies. No, no, no, Fight!!! Fight!!! Fight!!!, don't let the bastardddd win.

[@tryscience]

Respectfully disagree... with this knowledge, one can build 'truth pits' that con men can fall into. For example, where is my copy of the permits you said you got? Those take many days to get. So since you claim you got them, I'll have my copy in the next two days, or you're fired. (if he brings permits, call the barangay office to ensure they are not forgeries). Verify anything important. Visit the site every day or two. Photograph and video the progress. Pay as you go, not up front. If they don't like it? buh bye

[@KutWrite]

Yeah. He stiffed that Pinay with the hardware store. I'm sure she sells those hooked machetes they use to cut open coconuts!

[@ph5915]

Hang in there, Paul! Like you said, there will be some sunny days ahead! You two have earned them! 💯

[@wendellwelsh7420]

Hello Paul! Truly, not every day has sunshine, and it’s hard to see now, but the Son shines in the middle of every single circumstance. May peace abound and your hearts not be troubled. Keep smiling😊!

[@KutWrite]

Right! Romans 8:28!

[@robertpinkerton940]

Yep! Hopefully, things will turnaround and start favoring you two soon. Wish the both of you the best of everything.

[@markreynolds5363]

As a senior, buying a lot and house in ‘the province’ in PH makes no sense at all. You want to be near major/quality health facility and live in a small, low maintenance, condo. I plan on living in a studio unit. Low fees, cheap to keep cool. New building with water and backup generator. Pharmacy, water station, Robinson’s grocery all just an elevator ride away. Gym and pool just another elevator ride away. It’s a no-brainer…why go through all of these hassles? Even if you didn’t fall victim to a scammer, it makes no sense. Life doesn’t get easier the older one gets. If you were 20-30 yrs old, fine, build a house, clear brush, install solar panels and water tanks, climb up on the roof. At 70+? Eff all that. No fuss condo life near a major hospital is the way to go. I understand the aspect of leaving property for your wife…that still works with a condo, or two, buy a few studio condos and she can live in one and airb&b the others for income. Way better long term idea.

[@davetherave4599]

Great comment.👍

[@davetherave4599]

I'm in that age range and planning to live part-time in the Phills. Your suggestion makes a lot of sense and really appeals to me. Do you have any recommendations for a good location or condo complex? Really excellent observation you made here. It clarified a lot of things for me. I'm sure other guys too. At least the sensible ones, lol. 😆

[@markreynolds5363]

@@davetherave4599I never plan on moving permanently to PH. I’ll eventually be ‘snow birding’ from Canada to hold on to my Canadian healthcare. 6 months in Cebu City and 6 months in Canada/year. My wife is from Cebu City so it is closer to her family. Also, it is greener and feels a little less frantic/desperate/impoverished feeling than Manila IMO. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still the Philippines but there’s just something about having more vegetation around that makes it all slightly less ‘harsh’ feeling. I’m not really a ‘beach’ person and with all of the projections of bigger and bigger storms and sea-level rises I’m not interested in paying a premium for waterfront. I want something in the middle ground between sea level/beachfront risk and hilly/mudslide risk at the other extreme. We found a new condo project that fit our specific needs. It’s not a ‘high end’ property, but it is by a very established developer (Cebu Landmasters) the units are pretty small, but that keeps them affordable, fee and A/C wise. Only about $65k for a studio unit. It’s only a few minutes away from a major healthcare facility. Look up Casa Mira Guadalupe by Cebu Landmasters. It may suit your needs, it may not. It suits ours. I’m sure, if you are leaning more towards Manila, or another major urban spot with world class medical, you can find a nice neighborhood with more greenery there too.

[@DirectCurrent4u]

Paul; Wishing You all the best with the outcome of this situation. My deepest condolences to Mae and her family! 🙏🏻♥

[@markmitera4521]

You have been through hell and still manage to keep your head up. Much respect.

[@onetalentedman2822]

My house build I personally bought all materials as needed and builder plus labours where paid daily. Strange method but worked for my self & Filipino partner. The quality of workmanship on my build is acceptable and stood up to the large typhoon that hit the area few years ago. I've employed the same crew to build an extension and new CR with same agreement.

[@GK-wx6xo]

@@onetalentedman2822 thats exactly how to do it

[@joshuarizalforeman816]

We bought our 3 relatively high-end residential properties in Rizal through reputable real-estate companies. No problems. We built our commercial properties, in a nearby township, after having bought the land and having done a land-search - a bit of cash was given to lawyers to establish title but it was worth it for the security. Do your due diligence and you won't get scammed.We were having one property built when Covid hit. During the most severe days of lockdown we insisted that the developer pay the gang working on the property, even though no work was being done, since we had paid up-front and in full. One 'representative', i.e. saleswoman got a bit pissy but we referred the issue to head office and it was sorted - our basic argument was 'you have our cash so fulfil the contract.'

[@KutWrite]

I'd at least get an agent recommendation from The Pea!

[@tryscience]

That was painful to hear. I'm glad the workers got something. You didn't say much about your festoons, so I'm hopeful you're healing up well, there. Best wishes to you both.

[@jonboland6953]

Paul Mae hi. This is a terrible thing these builders have done. They will eventually overplay their hand. Being addicted on this, they can't stop. Upsetting so many people, the sky will fall in on them eventually. Best wishes with this project 👍.

[@JohnSmith-ti2kp]

@johboland6953-- If someone doesn't grow some and put a stop to him, then he will move on someplace else and set up shop again. Once someone gets away with something, they can no longer stop, that is until someone makes it too painful for them to continue.

[@KutWrite]

Conners are also easily conned, themselves.

[@joerosado86]

Sorry Paul to hear regarding your situation, sometimes when it rains, it pours. My condolences to May, may her mother rest in peace 🙏 Paul just wanted to touch a little on the subject regarding your lot, we had a problem on one of my wife land up in El Nido with native moving in and building a nippa and starting planting on the land, it took us almost a year to get them out of the property. What we did was we let someone live there (A native) and watch our land and take care of it and until now (4 years) we've had no issues I would suggest you do the same until you're ready to built You will save a lot of headaches. Good Luck Paul ❤

[@hmhhmh5127]

Well Paul I know all too well what scamming is in the Philippines. I've lived here for 25 years built a business just to get scammed by my own employees. Don't trust anyone here period even the ones close to you. You are and will always be a PROVIDER. They stop being nice once they realize that you are aware of their game.

[@ed5308]

Sorry for your and Baby Mae's loss. I have no words of wisdom. Just another day down here on earth.

[@KanoKanding]

Tragic story. Heartfelt condolences for your troubles. Live and learn- you’ll bounce back into a windfall of goodness. Just keep breathing and stay positive 🇺🇸💪🏼🇵🇭

[@eddiemoney61]

I'm sorry to hear that put his picture out there and get the word out his day will come soon.

[@jerrymarshall2728]

I'm fortunate to have found a new house already built, from one of the best builders in Luzon. I can only imagine the headaches of trying to hire a contractor to build a house

[@remo1wodmnetwork9605]

Paul, as bad as things have been going with the property issue, you sound stronger, better; your health has definitely improved. That is good. Love &N support to you and Mae as you pass through this time of sorrow & loss, into better times. It will improve.

[@edic2619]

Paul, very sorry to hear about the building scam. Wishing you both the best in what comes next.

[@phmiii]

I am sorry to hear about your building problems. When I built my last house in the States, I had vandals steal / damage over $10K. Sometimes thing just don't go in the correct direction.

[@KutWrite]

Sometimes our desired direction isn't the best, too. Romans 8:28.

[@JanGarysAdventures]

We heard the vice mayor is paying for attorneys for all of the workers.

[@erikschmitz1841]

Thanks for sharing, Paul. I enjoy living vicariously through your experiences in the Philippines. Unfortunately life rears its ugly head once in awhile, and just hope that some of the difficult times smooth out for you and Baby Mae, and life can become much more enjoyable. Cheers!

[@Jb-mi2rm]

Honestly Pi to most is a big scam and issue from infrastructure to scam central in general we live in se Asia for 15 yrs this wasn’t a place we would consider . Wish you guys good luck is making it good - Jb

[@stephenmccardle-x6r]

These videos are very informative. I’m sorry to hear about your issues building a home . Regardless I love the Philippines & want to come back very soon.

[@richsadventures1889]

I would find out witch one of the workers has the most experience, after you get the permits, hire that guy ,have him put together a crew, then oversee the project yourself. Pay as you go, buy materials as needed, and be in control of the whole project.

[@KutWrite]

I don't know. That group seemed very rag-tag. The leader probably was behind stealing the shack, which was Paul's, not the contractor's property.

[@richardclausen154]

Good call! Secure the perimeter and regroup. I truly hope this scumbag gets what’s coming to him! Hang in there Paul. I have had my share of dark days, and I always say you need some bad days to really appreciate the good days.

[@goofyjohn6191]

Sorry for the hardships you and Mae are living through recently. Lean into each other and we'll be here hoping.

[@k.kaiser3997]

I thought used car salesmen were hard to fool, to cheat ;)

[@KutWrite]

I know you were kidding, but I wouldn't lump 'em all together. No aspersions on Paul, but I've found the biggest con-men made the biggest marks to someone else. Often they lose all their ill-gotten gains when they are victimized. There's justice at a higher level! On the other hand, this may be in return for how many undercoatings Paul sold with his cars? (kidding - I hope)

[@michaelnewton4678]

So glad to see your positive disposition about the Philippines in general has not changed. Sad to hear of BM's mother, my condolences to all. We can always count on life tossing curve balls at us. There are lessons to be learned at every turn. I feel compelled to comment to the naysayers who lurk in the shadows and love to pounce with useless comments when someone has an unfortunate experience. No matter where you live, there are risks, be it health, safety, financial, or whatever. Some of us like to push the envelope a bit and take chances. You want to play it safe and only rent? Good for you! You want to avoid full-on commitment and trust? Don't get married! However, keep the comments useful and don't just throw out negativity if you get burned. Paul, in my opinion, you set a great example of how this vlogging thing should work. You explain the ups and downs, no sugarcoating on the downsides, and yet it's clear the Philippines can be a fantastic experience. That's why I watch. P.S....might be making a Vegas run soon, need anything? 😆😆💣💣

[@jaybrinkman2767]

My thoughts are with you both. Condolences Mae. You all are due some good karma . Hope your eyes are healing. Blessings

[@jaideedave]

Did you pay for the bunkhouse? If so then you got double shafted. You are in for a long ride my friend.

[@texroy1644]

Let's keep our fingers crossed and hope we don't see a video about a land title scam.

[@BC19572]

Paul did you ever think about buying an already built subdivision home? They are in small lots, the houses are not that big but definitely big enough for your wife when you pass. There are way too many scams with land purchase and home building and of course you have just gone through a home building scam. You could always sell the property and buy a subdivision home. Good luck

[@stevemorris3544]

Paul, you and Mae are good people. Sucks this guy did this to you. I get that the workers took the bunk house and the workers think that they were taking from the scammer but in reality you paid for it with the deposit and it was yours. I get that you have no need for it on the property unless you were going to re-try to build right away and it was probably not permitted if required so best to be gone.

[@haroldholton1246]

Stay Strong! Don't stick your neck out if you don't have to!

[@thadlandry1165]

Thanks Paul for the video ....

[@mikeflair6800]

Paul - why don't you contact Raffy Tulfo about this cheating clown? It seems like this guy was a master, he cheats many people USA, European, Filipino, other? and keeps getting away with it. How does someone like this 'buy on credit'? He must be a charmer or something.

[@KutWrite]

Who's the Raffy guy?

[@careysretirementjourney]

Paul I’m amazed so many guys make comments don’t buy land here which we do to secure our partners future when we are gone. I assume those commenting instead plan to leave a big stash of cash or bank account behind for there Filipina wife/common law. I think you have done the right thing and those commenting otherwise are not well informed.

[@markhobson531]

I am sorry to hear about Maes mom!!! We will be praying for her and her family.

[@juliogonzalez4764]

Buying homes, getting married, and having children later in life is never a good idea. They are handcuffs. Enjoy your retirement, and travel beautiful SE Asia. Sorry but it's true.

[@philgriffiths951]

Having a bunkhouse is the first step to getting an electricity supply

[@AidaJof]

So sorry to hear it, Pauley & Baby Mae. Thank goodness you were wise enough to commit only a deposit to this low-life scammer. He keeps burning people, he will get his comeuppance. Take care you two🙏

[@mikedavis975]

Sounds like a mell of a hess. At least you're getting a lot free advice from house building and buying experts. I think it will work out for you. Best of luck man.

[@jon15711]

Me and my family's sincere condolences on your wife's loss.

[@royaltyhardwoods1]

Hey Paul, sorry about the inconvenience and condolences for the family. I love your videos. I’ve been watching for a while thank you for the post. They’re very helpful. I’m currently in Manila do partly because of the videos I’ve learned by watching what you post in others and I’m married to young Filipino now for quite some time thinking about moving here permanently A contractor in the United States I’m not even sure if I can offer my services, but I’d be happy to help if there’s anyway to do so let me know

[@KelvinWilson53]

When it rains it pours even more so in the Philippines it seems! ❤

[@petergranados4005]

Paul, I've enjoyed your channel for some time now, my condolences to Mae, rest assure time will heal, go chill out somewhere, you'll be fine

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Thanks so much, I appreciate it!

[@gailmaplesden7380]

This is why so many people just rent . If people don't learn a lesson from Paul's adventure regardless of how well meaning it is, this can happen to you. Life is a gamble, and when we got on that plane, we rolled the dice, but as Paul has told us over and over again, you need to do your due diligence and do your homework. Coming in the next year or so, the price of condominiums is going to drop, and that should do a ripple effect on the property market, so save your pesos and be ready for the deals to come.

[@MrHart450]

Thanks for the upload. Rumour has it that the same S O B fleeced over 4 million pesos from a Filipina and her Polish husband.

[@AndiamoPhilippines]

they are idiots

[@MyLifeThai371]

"Isla pamilia" KZbin channel is a Filipina and has a polish husband.

[@DV8]

Paul your a good man, sorry all that shit happened to you and the wife. Better days ahead, condolences to May and her family.

[@daredevilforlife]

The ad interruptions make me feel like throwing my phone at the wall, lol. 😂

[@Biggestisland]

Just about to build in Laguna, my wife tells me to keep a low profile and let her deal with it. A good idea. We love the permit hunting 😅

[@RobSanson]

Hey Paul, you probably already thought of this but my dad built a house in the Philippines. He got some local guys to help build his house. He paid them by the hour . Takes longer though. You don't have to pay money up front.

[@chedhess345]

Paul I'm here in Kidapawan retired 71 I built my house here. I ran into problems , the first property I got the go around I bought the land , then nothing for 6 months so I checked into it , like you it was a scam. I got a lawyer and sent a letter to the scammers from the lawer and I got my money back. Here in the Philippines they take everything that not naild down. Long story short I built my house. A lot of the work I did myself. You have to have to have determination . Make your own plans, get the permits .its a lot of work but you can do it. Good luck Paul.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Thanks so much 👍

[@paulgonzalez6676]

Everything life throws at us is all good at the end. We live and learn. I am sure you guys will build a beautiful home there. 🙏

[@JMoroccoMisterBoy]

Ole' Dog, I have no idea how you feel about Ms. Pea, but she seems to build with honest laborer's and general contractors and personal associates as far as acquiring permits. Condolences to your little Wife, Lady Mae & Her Family. Tks. much

[@regoparknyc]

Hi Paul from Queens NY. Thanks for the update. Personally, I’d forget about this plot of land and sell it. For someone who doesn’t believe in this kind of stuff, it’s just jinxed since Juells bought it. Nothing but bad memories with everything that has happened with it. Alma has such great properties that come on the market. She hears nothing but crickets looking for buyers there. You may get a great deal on something.

[@jameswelch1054]

Paul have you see "Gelay's"KZbin videos on her Philippines home building disaster? She did everything wrong, and is continuing to make the same mistakes over and over again.

[@tryscience]

name the video please so I can watch and learn from it

[@Scotty2hotty-xc6gi]

True, but Gelay is much much prettier than Paul 😂😂😂😂

[@tryscience]

@Scotty2hotty-xc6gi ... true... But the money spends just the same

[@TheRocketrob3]

@@Scotty2hotty-xc6gi Gelay is such a turn OFF, i dont watch her anymore

[@jameswelch1054]

@ Yes Gelay is very pretty, but also emotional and not very smart.

[@mikefriedman8320]

'make you feel better about your life'....lol....good line, Paul

[@eddyedwards4955]

Why haven't these people filed a case against this so-called contractor and get him put in jail?

[@paulperano9236]

This guy sounds like someone who goes to see a waterfall well of the track and doesn't come back.

[@larryp759]

Wish I was there but need to finish my house first. Once my new house is built. I will make my 7th trip back to the Philippine to get out of the cold months. I am sure lot of people there tell you what you should build so hear me out. I would build it with concrete blocks. If I get back there I will show you how easy it is. All you need to do is hire a few local guys which is not that much and blocks are kind of cheap. Once the footings are poured I will show them how it is done so when the house is done they can find work doing blocks. Then pour a concrete floor and put rugs down to your liking. It will be better then a stick house when typoons come if that area gets them. I think if the roof is bolted down and with very little overhang so the wind can't get underneath to blow it off. You can put rain gutters to catch all the rain water and direct it away for your home. Or save the water in 50 gallon barrels for bathing or ?. Before the floor is poured all the plumbing must be done, and for drain pipes there set at a quarter of a bubble on a level that will be needed so the walls go up straight and level. I fill the blocks with mixed concrete and rebar once I get about 4 or 5 blocks up. Or till I get to where the windows start. You will have a way stronger house building it this way.

[@k.s.w.8282]

Sorry for the trouble you’re having. But you are providing a powerful service to those thinking about moving there. We learn thru the problems of others. Some of these commenters are dumb AF. You can also get conned in America just as quick as any other country. Keep pushing and be proud of the example you’re setting for folks thinking about relocating there. Also, sympathies for Mae and her family.

[@richard8181]

🫡🧘✊When you do start building again, you need at least one worker to be on site 24/7 or things will disappear. You must also go to site every couple of days to monitor the job. 🙏🍻

[@Not_A_Tourist]

And that guy needs to be a relative but that's not even a guarantee against theft.

[@tryscience]

a couple of trail cameras hidden in the trees might help too.

[@andreloudon8934]

@@tryscience They will be the first thing stolen, you can't hide them well enough to fool filipinos.

[@Not_A_Tourist]

@@tryscience that's what I suggested to a friend of mine, someone keeps raiding her garden and stealing her vegetables

[@unserrano]

Sounds like Mexico 😂😂

[@AmandaJones-p3s]

That's Soo Terrible Mr.Paul 😢 May God bless you and your family 🙏

[@MurraySmith-x4z]

Since you said you vetted or checked on his references, did they lie to you or were they part of the ongoing scam?

[@J.A.7]

My condolences to baby Mae and all of her family. 💝🙏

[@d.m.6657]

Paul, be careful ... some locals are very hot temper. Should avoid posting about them publicly 😅

[@investig69]

Im glad I hadn't fallen for.a scam and I'm building in a province.😊

[@Martin-v3v9p]

As soon as you heard that South African accent you should of immediately walked away..

[@MyLifeThai371]

White South Africans don't have an accent. They sound American. I had one as my roommate here in Cambodia last year and he tried to scam money out of all of us as well.

[@bryonhogg485]

But Elon Musk is South African - Elon's Dad is a real Ass _ _ _ _ Always talking S _ _ _ And Elon supports him . . .

[@brianstevens8554]

Paul good to see you again..Take Care... Enjoy your videos.

[@Lover_warrior]

It's good to talk to previous clients. Lessoned learned. Must have permits before construction. So called bunk house is nonsense. Storage for bags of cement, that's it. An Architect is who takes care of the process. If you go it alone then process the drawings that have been stamped by the engineer and other necessary signatures. Do not break ground until you have a permit including fencing permit. Must have your survey.

[@bonzotalonzo9072]

Let the buyer beware. When the cats away the mice will play (and u may be played)

[@gregarycomehere]

Good for you not to stress on the bunkhouse. That guy is probably in Thailand or Vietnam, spending your and others' money on bar girls by now.

[@sureshot776]

Always always always put the fence up first, trust no one

[@eddale8325]

Beware of squatters!!

[@TheRocketrob3]

watch the video, the bunker is GONE!!