Suddenly Without a Finca — Holidaymakers Await Thousands of Euros from a German Intermediary

When the vacation falls through and the money goes missing

It always starts the same: you look forward to the summer week, transfer the deposit — and at some point the finca is no longer available. In recent weeks, several holidaymakers and finca owners have contacted us. Amounts in the four- to five-figure range are involved, some families are waiting for around 6,000 euros, others for almost 5,000 euros.

Reports from those affected

Claudia from Augsburg told me recently on a phone call how absurd the whole thing seems: "We paid three months ago, suddenly the cancellation came, and since then there has been radio silence." A similar description comes from an owner in the southern part of the island: she had offered a luxury finca through the portal and is now waiting for income that was never transferred. Voices from the platform's team speak of outstanding salaries and social security contributions.

How the intermediary responds

The operator of the portals tells those affected that there have been liquidity problems and that a new investor has come in. Promises to complete all payments "within 14 days" had been made. At the same time, employees on Mallorca complain that offices in Santa Ponsa have been closed and that electricity has allegedly even been shut off — due to outstanding invoices.

The pages are still online

Strange: the booking pages continue to accept inquiries. Several callers report that reservations are automatically answered with a standard email — as a makeshift solution, say staff. For a German family arriving this week, it could end badly if the money does not reach the owner.

What those affected should do now

The consumer protection agency recommends: Do not hesitate to file a criminal complaint. If deposits have not been forwarded, that can constitute a criminal offense. Consulting the consumer protection agency and seeing a lawyer is sensible. Important points to note: secure payment receipts, save correspondence, and promptly file a police report.

As harsh as it sounds — those waiting for their money in such cases should stay on it. One vacationer said: "We will not give our money up without a fight." And she is right. Especially on an island where you actually want to relax, such a case is doubly annoying.