21/10/2025
🏡🇳🇬 SHINE YOUR EYES: 7 Non-Negotiable Checks Before Buying Property in Nigeria!
Buying a house in Naija is NOT beans o! 🤯
Before you say “God has done it!” and pay that agent, take a deep breath and read this!
You can't afford to let excitement make you a victim. Shine your eyes! 👇
1. 📜 Verify the Sacred Documents
If you hear “family land,” I beg, pause! Don't let "we'll process it later" turn into a loss forever.
The only acceptable documents are:
(a) C of O (Certificate of Occupancy)
(b) Governor’s Consent, or
(c) Deed of Assignment.
No documents, No deal. Simple!
2. 🕵️ Confirm the Real Owner
That "uncle" or "brother" collecting money may not even be the property owner. Always, always, confirm ownership directly through the Land Registry or a trusted property lawyer.
Wisdom is principal! Instruction is central!
3. 🦟 Check the Environment (Morning, Noon, & Night)
Visit the site at different times. If you see more mosquitoes than humans, or the water level is looking like Mini Bar Beach or a swampy lagoon after rain, please run!
Your future comfort depends on it!
4. 🧱 Inspect Structural Integrity
A fresh coat of paint can hide a multitude of sins. Tap those walls, check for serious cracks, and don't ignore funny smells or that suspiciously damp patch that shows a leaking roof.
Very important!
5. 💡 Ask About Power and Water (Proof Required!)
"Light dey 22 hours?" Please get proof before you move in. Check the Prepaid Meter for faults and confirm there are NO outstanding power bills attached to the property.
Don't Skip or Procrastinate!
6. 🚩 Beware of Omo Onile Drama
If you see multiple “This Land Is Not for Sale” signs, or if the history of the land is shrouded in mystery, treat it as a giant red flag!
Don't inherit someone else's communal wahala!
7. ⚖️ Engage a Professional Surveyor & Lawyer
No matter how sharp you are, NEVER buy property without a qualified legal and real estate professional reviewing EVERYTHING.
They are your shield against expensive mistakes!
FINAL NOTE: Don't let excitement make you a victim. Do your due diligence, secure your investment, and enjoy the peace of mind you deserve.
Photo Credit: Google
Writer: Glowing Virtues Sales Agency (Adeniji Oluwakemi)