Real Estate Pitfalls in Nigeria (And How to Dodge Premium Tears)
Property matter no be by gra gra—shine your eye before you sign anything
Buying land or a house in Naija is a solid move—if you do it right. But if you jump in without proper checks, the same land that’s supposed to secure your future can give you gbas gbos. Let's break down some of the most common mistakes people make, and how you can avoid them like a sharp guy (or babe).
1. Buying Land From Who No Get Land
This one na classic. Many people have paid millions to “agents” who didn’t own a single square inch of the land. Some even fence and sell land that’s not theirs, print fake receipts, even act like caretaker. Before you say “God abeg,” your money don fly.
Fix up:
1️⃣ Request original land documents
2️⃣ Go verify ownership at the land registry
3️⃣ Don’t just trust agent mouth or family ties
4️⃣ Use a lawyer—even if it’s “family land”
2. No Paper, No Property
No proper papers? Abeg run! See ehn, land with no papers is like buying designer bag from traffic. Looks cheap, ends up being costly. Don’t let the low price of “promo land” deceive you. If the land doesn’t have valid documents, you’re likely buying trouble in disguise.
Check these papers:
🏘 C of O (Certificate of Occupancy)
📃 Deed of Assignment
🏗 Survey Plan
🧱 Building/Development Approval (if there’s a structure)
3. Land Title Wahala
Not all lands are the same. Some lands look fine until one day bulldozers show up—courtesy of the government. If it’s under acquisition or has no excision, wahala dey.
To be safe:
🏁 Use a licensed surveyor to confirm the title status
🏁 If they say it's excised, ask for gazette proof—no be by vibes
🏁 The safest option? Buy land with a clear title and no government claims
4. Location Wey Fit Stress You
That area may look peaceful now, but what happens during rainy season? Or when it takes 90 minutes to find a basic grocery store? A bad location can turn your dream into stress. If you haven’t seen the land in rainy season or driven there at night, you’re just buying screenshots.
Wise up:
⛅ Visit in person during both rainy and dry seasons
🗣 Talk to neighbours; the locals in the area
♿ Factor in roads, security, water, schools, markets—everything
5. Doing It All Alone Like Jackie Chan
Real estate is not a one-man show and it isn't the time for trial and error. Thinking you can “DIY” your way through is how premium tears start.
Your team should include:
⚖ A property-savvy lawyer
🚜 A registered surveyor
🏘 A trusted realtor or developer who knows the terrain
6. Hidden Charges Wey Go Shock You
You saw “₦10M land” and you rushed. Now agency fee, legal fee, omo-onile fee, and “land welcoming fee” are greeting you. If you're not careful, the final figures can double.
Budget for:
📈 10–15% on top the asking price for unforeseen charges
📈 All those unofficial fees people “forget” to mention
7. Rush Rush = Premium Tears
The moment you hear “Last plot remaining!” take a deep breath. Calm down. Verify first. Urgency is often a tactic and property decisions need clarity, not pressure.
Final Thoughts
In Nigerian real estate, sharp thinking is your best ally. Property is a long-term move, not something you rush like flash sales. Don't let hype override due diligence. Do your checks, ask the hard questions, involve the right people, and always—always—read between the lines.
💬 No go collect L for land matter o. Buy right, and your property will reward you. Buy wrong, and you might end up with land you can only visit in court.
