Buying property in Nigeria is a significant investment, whether you’re a first-time buyer, an investor, or a Nigerian in the diaspora. But it’s also a decision that requires careful research, legal awareness, and due diligence to avoid heartbreak and financial loss.
This comprehensive checklist will walk you through the essential steps and provide legal insights that can save you millions — and a whole lot of stress.
✅ 1. Define Your Property Purpose
Before jumping into property listings, ask:
- Are you buying to live, rent, or resell?
- Is your priority location, infrastructure, return on investment, or affordability?
Knowing your purpose helps you choose the right property type (land, apartment, off-plan, commercial) and location.
✅ 2. Research the Location
Consider:
- Accessibility to major roads, business districts, schools, etc.
- Security in the area
- Growth potential (upcoming developments, population growth)
- Government interest or infrastructure plans
💡 Pro tip: Locations like Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, and Abijo GRA are rising stars in Lagos real estate.
✅ 3. Verify the Title Documents
This is where many buyers get scammed. Do not skip this step.
Look out for:
- Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
- Governor’s Consent
- Deed of Assignment
- Registered Survey Plan
- Excision or Gazette (especially for land in government-acquired areas)
🛡️ Legal Tip: Always involve a trusted property lawyer to conduct due diligence. They can help verify the legitimacy of land documents at the Land Registry.
✅ 4. Investigate the Seller or Developer
Whether you’re dealing with an individual, agent, or company, you must:
- Confirm the seller’s identity and ownership
- Research their track record (for developers)
- Ask for physical addresses, CAC registration, and client references
At Goodlords Estates, all properties are 100% verified, and our projects are backed by strong documentation and client trust.
✅ 5. Visit the Site
Even if you’re in the diaspora — request:
- Real-time videos or virtual tours
- Independent third-party inspections
- Photos of boundary markings and beacons
📍 Seeing is believing. Avoid buying “ghost land.”
✅ 6. Get a Proper Sales Agreement
A verbal deal or handwritten receipt is not enough.
Ensure the agreement includes:
- Property details (size, location, features)
- Agreed price and payment structure
- Delivery timeline (for off-plan)
- Penalties for breach of contract
🛡️ Legal Tip: This document must be signed by both parties and witnessed by a legal professional.
✅ 7. Confirm Land Use and Zoning
In Nigeria, some lands are designated for agriculture, commercial, or government use. Others fall under restricted zones.
🔎 Visit the Ministry of Physical Planning or the State Land Bureau to:
- Confirm if the land is free from government acquisition
- Ensure it’s suitable for your intended use
✅ 8. Plan for Extra Costs
Besides the property price, budget for:
- Legal fees (5%–10%)
- Survey and documentation
- Development or infrastructure levies (for estate lands)
- Agency commission (if applicable)
✅ 9. Get Receipts and Acknowledgments
After every payment, request:
- Official receipts
- Acknowledgment letters
- Transaction history (for installment payments)
Keep all documents digitally and physically filed.
✅ 10. Insist on Allocation
After full payment, you should receive:
- A Deed of Assignment
- Survey Plan
- Allocation Letter
- Possession of your plot/unit
🛡️ Legal Tip: Without allocation, you don’t truly “own” the land, regardless of receipts.
Final Thoughts
Buying property in Nigeria doesn’t have to be risky — if you do it right.
This checklist ensures you’re not only financially prepared but also legally protected. The best way to buy with peace of mind is by partnering with a trusted real estate company like Goodlords Estates, where transparency, verified titles, and customer satisfaction come standard.
🏡 Ready to Buy Property the Right Way?
At Goodlords Estates, we offer:
✅ Verified properties with clear titles
✅ Expert legal guidance and transparency
✅ Secure payment plans and site allocation
✅ Full client support from start to finish
