What to Check Before Buying a House in Nigeria

Buying a house is one of the most significant financial investments you can make, and in Nigeria, the process comes with its unique challenges.

Many people have lost their hard-earned money due to fraudulent deals, lack of proper documentation, or buying properties with hidden defects.

To avoid these pitfalls, it is crucial to conduct due diligence before making a purchase.

In this guide, we will explain the essential things to check before buying a house in Nigeria, ensuring you make an informed and safe investment.

1. Verify the Property Title & Ownership

Before making any payment, you need to confirm that the seller has the legal right to sell the house. The best way to do this is by verifying the property title. In Nigeria, common land titles include:

Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): This is the most recognized land title issued by the government, confirming legal ownership.
Governor’s Consent: If the property has been transferred from one owner to another, it requires the Governor’s Consent.
Deed of Assignment: This document transfers ownership from one person to another.
Survey Plan: This outlines the exact size and location of the land.

Visit the land registry at the state Ministry of Lands to confirm the validity of the title and ensure there are no disputes on the property.

2. Investigate the Land Documentation

Beyond verifying ownership, you need to check for proper documentation. Some lands in Nigeria are under government acquisition, meaning they cannot be legally sold. Ensure the land is not under acquisition or litigation by conducting a land verification search at the relevant land bureau.

A surveyor can also help confirm the land’s authenticity by ensuring it is not within government-restricted areas or affected by environmental issues such as flooding.

Read This: The Rise of Green Buildings in Nigeria: What You Need to Know

3. Conduct a Physical Inspection

Never rely solely on pictures or descriptions, visit the property yourself. During the inspection, look out for:

Structural Integrity: Check for cracks, dampness, weak walls, and faulty roofs.
Plumbing and Electrical Systems: Ensure all installations are functional and up to standard.
Neighbourhood Condition: Is the area prone to flooding? Are there cases of land disputes?
Quality of Construction: Poorly constructed buildings can lead to costly repairs in the future.

4. Consider the Location & Neighborhood

Location plays a huge role in determining the value and livability of a house. Before buying, consider:

Proximity to key amenities like markets, hospitals, schools, and public transport.
Security in the neighbourhood (check crime rates and community policing efforts).
Accessibility of roads, especially during the rainy season.
Future development projects in the area could affect property value.

If possible, visit at different times of the day to observe traffic patterns, noise levels, and general safety.

5. Check for Hidden Costs & Additional Fees

The purchase price is not the only cost involved in buying a house in Nigeria. You may also need to budget for:

Legal Fees: Hiring a lawyer to verify documents and process ownership transfers.
Agency Fees: If you are buying through an agent, they typically charge 5-10% of the property price.
Land Documentation Costs: Costs for perfecting documents like Governor’s Consent, Deed of Assignment, and Survey Plans.
Community Development Fees: Some estates or local communities charge levies for development projects or security.

Understanding all associated costs will help you plan your budget properly.

6. Verify Government Approvals & Regulations

Many buildings in Nigeria are demolished because they violate government regulations. Before buying, ensure the house has:

A building plan approval from the state urban planning authority.
No violation of zoning laws (some areas are reserved for commercial purposes only).
Compliance with building standards (to prevent structural failure or forced demolition).

Check with the relevant authorities to confirm these approvals.

Learn More: How to Verify Land Documents Before Buying in Nigeria

7. Investigate Property History & Legal Disputes

Some properties have a history of ownership conflicts or legal battles. To avoid future troubles:

Conduct a background check on the property by speaking with neighbors and local authorities.
Ask if the house has been previously sold to multiple buyers (a common scam in Nigeria).
Ensure the property is not under a court dispute or pending litigation.

A lawyer can help you run a legal check on the property to avoid future complications.

8. Engage a Real Estate Lawyer & Professionals

Buying a house is not something you should do alone. Hiring professionals can save you from costly mistakes:

A real estate lawyer will verify documents and ensure the transaction is legal.
A surveyor will confirm land boundaries and check for government acquisition.
A property inspector will assess the house’s structural condition and highlight possible issues.

Although hiring these professionals comes at a cost, it is a worthwhile investment that protects you from fraud.

9. Confirm Infrastructure & Utility Availability

Before purchasing a house, ensure it has access to essential infrastructure, such as:

Electricity supply (Check if there is stable power supply or reliance on generators).
Water supply (Boreholes are common in Nigeria, but confirm water quality and availability).
Drainage system (Poor drainage can lead to flooding and environmental hazards).
Internet and mobile network coverage (Essential for remote work and communication).

If these infrastructures are lacking, be prepared to make additional investments.

10. Consider Your Long-Term Investment Goals

Buying a house should align with your financial goals. Ask yourself:

Is this house for personal use or investment?
Will the property appreciate over time?
Does the location have rental demand if you plan to lease it out?
What are the long-term maintenance costs?

Properties in rapidly developing areas tend to appreciate faster, making them ideal for investment.

Conclusion

Purchasing a house in Nigeria requires careful planning and thorough investigation. From verifying ownership and land titles to checking infrastructure and legal status, every step is crucial in avoiding scams and future regrets.

Final Advice: Never rush into buying a house, always verify all documents, conduct due diligence, and seek professional guidance.

If you’re considering buying a house in Nigeria, consult with real estate experts to ensure a smooth and secure transaction.

Have you ever had a house-buying experience in Nigeria? Share your thoughts in the comments.