How Much Does it Cost to List a Property for Sale in Nigeria?

The Nigerian real estate market is growing rapidly, with more individuals and businesses looking to buy and sell properties.

Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or real estate agent, understanding the costs of listing a property for sale in Nigeria is crucial.

From platform fees to agent commissions and marketing expenses, sellers must factor in various costs to ensure a smooth and successful sale.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the expenses involved in listing a property for sale in Nigeria, explore cost-saving strategies, and provide insights on maximising your listing’s visibility without overspending.

Common Costs Associated with Listing a Property in Nigeria

When selling a property in Nigeria, several expenses come into play. The total cost will depend on various factors, including:

Location of the Property – Prime locations in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt may have higher listing fees and agent commissions compared to other regions.
Listing Platform – Different real estate websites have varying pricing structures for property listings.
Agent or Direct Sale – If you hire an agent, you’ll incur commission costs, while direct selling may require additional marketing efforts.
Legal Documentation – Property title verification and other legal processes come with their own costs.
Marketing and Promotions – Premium listings, paid advertising, and property staging all add to the total expenses.

Understanding these costs will help you budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.

Listing Fees on Popular Property Platforms

Nigeria has several online real estate platforms where sellers can list their properties. The cost of listing varies based on whether you choose a free or premium listing.

Popular Real Estate Websites and Their Pricing

PropertyPro.ng
- Free basic listing option.
- Premium listings cost between ₦5,000 and ₦30,000 per month, depending on the exposure level.
PrivateProperty.com.ng
- Free basic listings are available.
- Featured listings start at ₦10,000 per month.
Nigeria Property Centre
- Free basic listings.
- Premium listings range from ₦15,000 to ₦50,000 per month.
Jiji.ng
- Free for general listings.
- Paid promotions start from ₦2,000 to ₦50,000 for increased visibility.

Choosing the right platform depends on your target audience and budget. Paid listings typically receive more visibility and attract serious buyers faster than free listings.

Real Estate Agent Commission and Fees

If you decide to work with a real estate agent, their commission is one of the biggest costs you’ll incur.

How Much Do Real Estate Agents Charge in Nigeria?

The standard commission rate is 5-10% of the final sale price.
Some agents charge additional fees for property valuation and marketing.
Negotiating commissions based on the property value and market demand can help reduce costs.

Should You Hire an Agent or Sell Directly?

Hiring an agent can save time and effort, but if you want to cut costs, you may choose to sell directly by listing on property websites and handling inquiries yourself.

Legal and Documentation Costs

Selling a property in Nigeria involves legal documentation to ensure the transfer is legitimate and legally binding.

Common Legal Fees

Property Valuation – ₦50,000 to ₦500,000 depending on the property’s worth.
Title Verification – ₦10,000 to ₦100,000.
Legal Fees for Sale Agreement – 1-5% of the property value.
Deed of Assignment Processing – ₦50,000 to ₦200,000.

These costs vary based on the property type and location.

This is for You: The Role of a Real Estate Agent in Buying Property

Marketing and Advertising Expenses

Marketing is key to attracting potential buyers. Here are the costs associated with promoting your property effectively:

1. Professional Photography & Videography

High-quality photos: ₦20,000 – ₦100,000
Video tour production: ₦50,000 – ₦300,000

2. Social Media & Paid Ads

Facebook/Instagram ads: ₦10,000 – ₦200,000+
Google Ads: ₦15,000 – ₦500,000

3. Traditional Advertising

Print media listings: ₦5,000 – ₦50,000
Flyers and banners: ₦5,000 – ₦30,000

While marketing is optional, investing in it can speed up the selling process.

Additional Hidden Costs to Consider

Beyond the obvious expenses, there are hidden costs to keep in mind:

Property Cleaning & Staging – ₦20,000 – ₦200,000 to enhance the property’s appeal.
Government Levies & Taxes – Varies by state.
Bank Charges – If using escrow services, fees may apply.

Cost-Saving Tips for Listing a Property in Nigeria

1. Use Free Listing Options

Start with free listings on platforms like Jiji.ng, PropertyPro.ng, and Nigeria Property Centre.

2. DIY Marketing

Take quality photos yourself using a good smartphone camera.
Leverage free social media posts and real estate groups.

3. Negotiate Agent Fees

Some agents may agree to lower commissions, especially for high-value properties.

4. Choose the Right Listing Package

If using paid listings, pick the most cost-effective option.

5. Optimize Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Inform friends, family, and real estate networks about the sale.

Conclusion

Selling a property in Nigeria involves multiple costs, from platform fees to agent commissions, legal expenses, and marketing efforts.

However, by understanding these expenses and using cost-saving strategies, you can optimize your listing budget while ensuring maximum visibility.

Key Takeaways:

Free listings are available, but premium options improve visibility.
Agent commissions typically range between 5-10% of the sale price.
Legal and documentation fees vary based on property value and location.
Marketing costs depend on whether you use free strategies or paid promotions.
Negotiating fees and leveraging social media can help reduce overall costs.

With proper planning, you can list and sell your property efficiently while staying within your budget.

Would you like personalized recommendations for listing your property? Feel free to reach out.