14/09/2026
3 Red-Flag Documents You Must Never Accept When Buying Land
Before you hand over your hard-earned money for a "dream property," check the paperwork. Signing off on the wrong document doesn't just put your investment at risk, it leaves you with land you don't legally own.
Here are 3 red-flag documents to walk away from immediately:
1. A Photocopied or Unregistered Deed of Assignment.
The seller hands you a faded photocopy or claims registration "isn't necessary yet."
An unregistered deed or plain photocopy transfers zero legal title. Without a stamped, registered original logged with the land registry, the seller can legally resell the same plot to someone else tomorrow.
2. A "Power of Attorney" Passed Off as Ownership.
The land seller tries to transfer full ownership using only a Power of Attorney (PoA).
A Power of Anthony grants permission to manage or sell property on someone else's behalf, it does not convey ownership. If the original donor revokes the PoA or passes away, your right to the land can vanish instantly.
3. A Land Receipt Without a Formal Title.
You are given a handwritten family receipt, chief's purchase receipt, or layout paper as "proof of ownership."
A receipt proves money changed hands; it does not prove legal title to the real estate. Without a verified Certificate of Occupancy, Gazette, or registered Deed backing it up, that receipt is just an expensive piece of paper.
MONDAY TAKEAWAY: Never settle for verbal promises or substitute paperwork. Always conduct a thorough title search at the land registry OR have a professional realtor beside you before signing or transferring funds.
Secure titles make secure investments!
I am Saadalahi Yahaya Babatunde. Your trusted real estate advisor, financial coach and wealth strategist...
