Open Home

PHOTO: The court heard graphic evidence from three complainants. FILE

A Sydney real estate agent has been accused of using open homes as the setting for multiple sexual assaults — with prosecutors claiming his actions followed a clear pattern of predatory behaviour.


Open Homes Turned Into Alleged Crime Scenes

A 29-year-old Sydney real estate agent, Omar Lababidi, has pleaded not guilty to 26 charges, including rape and sexual touching, allegedly committed between 2021 and 2023.

His trial began in the Campbelltown District Court, where the prosecution claimed that Lababidi targeted three women during property inspections across southwest Sydney, using open homes as opportunities to assault them.

Prosecutors told the court that Lababidi allegedly pinned women against walls, forced one to perform oral sex on three separate occasions, and exposed himself during inspections.

Crown prosecutor Alex Brown described his actions as “a clear pattern of acting on sexual interest while at work”.

Real Estate Agent Faces Multiple Serious Misconduct Charges in Sydney Property Case


Defense Claims Encounters Were Consensual

Lababidi’s defence barrister, Simon Buchen SC, told jurors his client believed the encounters were consensual, insisting the court must not act as a “court of morals.”

He urged the jury to consider whether “regret after the fact” could be mistaken for a lack of consent, arguing that Lababidi had flirted but committed no criminal offence.

“There is a difference between regretting something after the event and not consenting to something during the event,” Buchen said.

Lababidi (pictured) is accused of assaulting three women during property inspections in Sydney

Lababidi (pictured) is accused of assaulting three women during property inspections in Sydney


Disturbing Allegations Detailed in Court

The court heard graphic evidence from three complainants, each describing similar encounters that allegedly took place in homes being shown to potential buyers.

In one case, a woman said Lababidi forced her to perform sexual acts before abruptly stopping when the homeowner entered the kitchen. On another occasion, he allegedly pressured her to touch him before a couple arrived for an inspection.

Prosecutors said the women all clearly refused his advances, and each told him to stop.

“None of the women showed any interest in engaging in these acts,” Ms Brown said, alleging Lababidi used his professional position to create “moments of isolation and control.”

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Charges and Ongoing Trial

Lababidi faces 21 counts of sexual touching without consent, three counts of sexual intercourse without consent, and two counts of committing a sexual act without consent.

The case continues before Judge and jury in Sydney, with further evidence expected from witnesses and investigators.

If convicted, Lababidi could face a lengthy prison term and permanent removal from the real estate industry.


🧠 Public Outrage and Industry Fallout

The allegations have reignited concerns around real estate safety standards, particularly for women visiting open homes alone.

Industry experts say the case underscores the urgent need for stronger agent vetting, supervision policies, and reporting mechanisms to protect the public.

Real estate agencies are now being urged to implement mandatory background checks and safeguarding protocols during property inspections.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028

SOURCE: THE DAILY MAIL

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