Remote house-hunting is completely normal now, and agents in expat-heavy markets are set up for it: video walkthroughs and digital document handling are standard offerings. Using an agent to shortlist before you arrive is sensible; committing large money before anyone you trust has stood in the property is where people get burned.
The scam patterns are consistent worldwide. Fake listings with prices slightly too good, pressure to wire a deposit to hold a property sight unseen, landlords or sellers who are conveniently abroad, requests for payment through untraceable channels, and lookalike websites of real agencies. Verify the agency exists at a physical address, check the license registry where one exists, call the office through its published number rather than the one in the listing, and pay only traceable methods into accounts matching the company name.
A good compromise many movers use: shortlist remotely, book temporary accommodation for the first month, and sign anything long-term only after in-person viewings. For purchases, add an independent local lawyer before any money moves.