Buying property in Nigeria is easier when the process is broken into clear stages. Start with your budget and preferred location, compare suitable listings, verify the property and seller, inspect the property, and confirm the documents and transaction terms before paying.
How to start
Define what you are buying, where you want it, and the budget you can comfortably support. For a home, consider commute, schools, neighbourhood services and the condition of the building. For land, pay particular attention to permitted use, access and title documentation.
Search and compare listings
Use a structured property search to compare price, property type, bedrooms, bathrooms, location, furnishing and other features. Treat listing information as a starting point for due diligence rather than as a substitute for independent verification.
Verify before you commit
Ask for the documents relevant to the property and transaction. Depending on the property and location, this may include title documents, survey information, planning or development approvals, receipts and evidence of the seller’s authority to transact. Requirements vary by state and property type, so professional legal advice can be important.
Inspect the property
For an existing building, inspect the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical installations, drainage, access, boundaries and visible defects. For land, inspect the physical location and boundaries and compare them with the survey and other relevant documents.
Understand the full cost
The purchase price may not be the only cost. Ask for a written breakdown of applicable professional fees, agency fees, legal costs, registration or documentation charges, taxes or levies, service charges and other transaction expenses.
Complete the transaction carefully
Use written agreements and keep copies of documents, receipts and correspondence. Avoid paying based only on urgency or pressure. Where appropriate, use qualified legal and professional advisers to review the transaction before completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start searching for property in Nigeria?
Start with your preferred location, property type, purpose and budget. Compare multiple listings and arrange appropriate inspections and verification before committing.
Should I pay before inspecting a property?
For a significant transaction, avoid making a commitment based only on photographs or urgency. Inspect the property where practical and verify the relevant details first.
Does an INYIS verification badge guarantee ownership?
No. INYIS verification is a marketplace trust signal and does not replace independent legal, title, planning, survey or other professional due diligence.
What documents should I check before buying?
The relevant documents depend on the property and location. Ask for the documents establishing the seller’s interest, survey or site information where relevant, applicable planning or development information, and transaction records, and have them reviewed by an appropriate professional.
What other costs should I budget for?
Depending on the transaction, there may be legal, agency, survey, valuation, registration, tax, service or other costs. Request a written breakdown before paying.