Buying property in Nigeria, whether it’s a piece of land, a house, or commercial space, is a big investment. For many people, it’s a life-changing decision. Yet, countless buyers fall into traps simply because they don’t fully understand the process.
Issues like fake documents, multiple sales of the same land, or government acquisition can turn a dream purchase into a nightmare.
The good news is that with the right information and guidance, you can protect yourself from these risks. This article explains the most important things you should know before buying property in Nigeria.
Everything is broken down in simple terms so that even if you’re not familiar with legal jargon, you can still understand your rights and responsibilities.
Essential Considerations Before Buying Property
Buying land or property in Nigeria involves more than just paying money and receiving a receipt. To ensure your investment is secure, you must check ownership, confirm documents, and follow legal procedures.
Below are the ten key things to keep in mind before committing to any property purchase.
Verify the Seller’s Legal Ownership
Before you hand over any money, make sure the person selling the property truly owns it. In Nigeria, it’s not uncommon for people to pose as landowners when they have no legal right to sell.
Always request proof of ownership, such as a Certificate of Occupancy or Deed of Assignment. If the seller inherited the land, ensure there is valid documentation showing the transfer of ownership.
Check the Title Documents
The title document proves the legal status of a property. Common examples include the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Deed of Assignment, Deed of Lease, and Governor’s Consent.
Each document has a specific purpose, but the key is to ensure they are genuine and properly registered at the Land Registry. Fake or forged documents are widespread, so verifying them through a lawyer is crucial.
Know the Type of Land
Not all land can be sold freely. Some lands are freehold (meaning the owner has the right to sell), while others are under government acquisition. Family or communal lands may also come with complications, especially if not all family members consent to the sale.
Understanding the category of land prevents you from buying property that cannot legally be transferred.
Conduct a Land Search
A land search is a formal investigation at the Land Registry to check the history of a property. It reveals whether the land has disputes, encumbrances, or if it is government-acquired.
This simple step has saved many buyers from losing their money to fraudulent sellers. It’s best to let a lawyer handle this process so nothing is overlooked.
Understand Consent Requirements
In Nigeria, some property transactions require the Governor’s Consent before they become legally valid. For example, when transferring property from one person to another, consent is necessary under the Land Use Act.
Without it, the transaction may be challenged in court later. Always confirm whether consent is required for the specific property you want to buy.
Survey Plan Verification
A survey plan is a document that shows the exact boundaries and location of a piece of land. It helps you confirm that the land being sold matches what is on paper. Fraudsters often sell land in one location but present documents for another. A licensed surveyor can help you verify the details on the ground.
Beware of “Omonile” Issues
In many parts of Nigeria, especially in Lagos, buyers encounter problems with “Omonile” (land grabbers or local family members who claim ownership of land). These groups often demand illegal payments even after you’ve purchased land legitimately.
To avoid trouble, ensure you buy from verified owners and always involve a lawyer who understands how to handle “Omonile” issues.
Check Zoning and Use Restrictions
Some lands are reserved for specific purposes. For example, land designated for agriculture cannot be used for commercial buildings without government approval.
Similarly, residential areas may have restrictions on the kind of structures that can be built. Checking zoning laws prevents future problems with authorities or neighbors.
Factor in Hidden Costs
The purchase price is not the only cost involved in buying property. Additional expenses include legal fees, registration charges, stamp duties, and taxes. Some developments also come with service charges or estate levies.
Planning ahead for these costs ensures you don’t get caught off guard after committing your funds.
Work with a Qualified Lawyer
The most important step in buying property is hiring a lawyer. A qualified property lawyer will conduct searches, verify documents, and ensure the transaction complies with the law.
While some people try to save costs by skipping this step, it often leads to more expensive mistakes. A lawyer’s guidance can save you from scams and legal disputes.
What You Can Expect With Us
Buying property is a big step, and it’s normal to feel uncertain. With proper guidance, however, the process can be smooth and secure. By following the right legal procedures, you can expect peace of mind, protection against fraud, and confidence in your investment.
At Laide Gbadamosi & Co., we guide buyers through every stage of property transactions with clarity and care.
Here are five things you can expect when working with experienced property lawyers:
- Thorough document verification to confirm true legal ownership.
- Guidance through land registry searches for safer transactions.
- Protection from fraudulent sellers and hidden legal risks.
- Clear explanation of all costs, duties, and required approvals.
- Smooth handling of paperwork for stress-free property acquisition.
Conclusion
Buying property in Nigeria can be both exciting and overwhelming. While opportunities are plenty, so are the risks. Fraudulent sales, fake documents, and unclear ownership are real problems buyers face daily.
The safest way to approach property transactions is to never walk alone. Always involve a qualified lawyer who understands the process inside and out. That way, you protect your hard-earned money, avoid disputes, and secure your property with confidence.
