Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Property in Nigeria
Introduction
Buying property in Nigeria — whether it’s land, a house, or an off-plan unit — can be profitable. But without proper knowledge and caution, it can also become a financial nightmare. Too many investors lose money due to preventable mistakes.
This article outlines the top mistakes property buyers make in Nigeria, and how to avoid them for a secure, profitable real estate transaction in 2025.
1. Not Verifying the Title Documents
Mistake: Accepting a C of O, Gazette, or survey at face value without cross-checking.
Risk: You could be buying land under government acquisition or involved in litigation.
Avoid It: Always verify documents at the State Land Registry and Surveyor General’s Office.
2. Skipping Legal Due Diligence
Mistake: Relying on the seller’s lawyer or verbal promises.
Risk: You might be signing contracts that aren’t enforceable.
Avoid It: Hire your own real estate lawyer to review every agreement and title.
3. Paying Without a Written Agreement or Receipt
Mistake: Making cash payments with no documentation.
Risk: No legal proof if things go wrong.
Avoid It: Never pay without a signed contract and official receipt. Use bank transfers for traceability.
4. Ignoring the Land Location and Accessibility
Mistake: Buying cheap land in remote or landlocked areas.
Risk: Land may remain undeveloped for years, or may not appreciate.
Avoid It: Visit the site. Check road access, proximity to infrastructure, and urban development plans.
5. Buying Land with “Excision in Process”
Mistake: Trusting sellers who claim land is under excision processing.
Risk: The land is technically under government acquisition until fully excised and gazetted.
Avoid It: Buy land that is already excised and gazetted, or has a registered title.
6. Overlooking Land Disputes and Family Claims
Mistake: Buying from a single family member without consensus.
Risk: Land may be resold or claimed by other family members.
Avoid It: Always confirm family consent or buy through a registered company or estate.
7. Falling for Unrealistic Prices or Offers
Mistake: Believing in offers that are too good to be true.
Risk: Scams and fake allocations.
Avoid It: Compare prices in the area, investigate the seller or developer’s track record, and never rush.
8. Not Conducting Physical Site Inspection
Mistake: Buying land based on pictures or digital inspection alone.
Risk: The land may not exist or may be different from what was shown.
Avoid It: Always conduct or assign someone to do a physical inspection.
9. Ignoring Community or Omo-Onile Demands
Mistake: Failing to factor in Omo-Onile (land-owning families) obligations.
Risk: Harassment during development or demand for multiple levies.
Avoid It: Work with professionals who handle such negotiations legally and transparently.
10. Not Perfecting the Title After Purchase
Mistake: Buying land and doing nothing afterward.
Risk: You don’t legally own the land in the eyes of the state.
Avoid It: Start the process of title perfection — like Governor’s Consent or Deed of Assignment registration — immediately after purchase.
Final Thoughts
Real estate in Nigeria remains a powerful wealth-building tool — but only when approached wisely. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you millions, protect your investment, and give you peace of mind.
Thinking of buying property in Nigeria? We offer expert due diligence, legal support, and verified property listings to help you invest with confidence. Schedule a free consultation today.
