Buying and selling properties in Nigeria can be highly profitable but also comes with risks, especially scams and legal issues. To do it quickly and safely, follow these steps:

BUYING PROPERTIES QUICKLY & SAFELY IN NIGERIA

1. Identify Your Needs and Budget

  • Decide on the type of property (land, house, commercial, etc.).
  • Set a clear budget (consider agency fees, legal fees, and extra costs).
  • Choose a location with high appreciation potential (Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, etc.).

2. Find Genuine Properties

  • Work with trusted real estate agents or companies.
  • Search through online property platforms (PropertyPro, Nigeria Property Centre, etc.).
  • Attend property auctions and estate sales for quick deals.

3. Verify Ownership and Documents

  • Request the Title Deeds (C of O, Deed of Assignment, Survey Plan, etc.).
  • Conduct a land search at the Land Registry to confirm ownership.
  • Check for government restrictions (e.g., land under acquisition).
  • Ensure there are no pending court cases or family disputes.

4. Negotiate and Make Payments Securely

  • Negotiate the price and get a lawyer involved.
  • Never pay in cash—always use traceable transactions (bank transfer).
  • Draft and sign a purchase agreement before making payments.

5. Get Legal Protection

  • Engage a real estate lawyer to review documents.
  • Obtain necessary government approvals and process title transfers.
  • Collect all original documents after payment.

SELLING PROPERTIES QUICKLY & SAFELY IN NIGERIA

1. Prepare the Property for Sale

  • Renovate or clean up the property to make it attractive.
  • Have all legal documents ready (C of O, Survey Plan, etc.).
  • Get a valuation to determine the right price.

2. Market the Property Effectively

  • List on popular property websites (Jiji, PropertyPro, Private Property).
  • Use social media and WhatsApp groups for wider reach.
  • Partner with registered estate agents.

3. Screen and Vet Buyers

  • Ensure they have proof of funds.
  • Check their background to avoid fraudulent buyers.
  • Use a lawyer to prepare a legal purchase agreement.

4. Close the Deal Properly

  • Receive payments through secure channels (escrow, bank transfer).
  • Sign all legal documents before releasing ownership.
  • File for property transfer at the Land Registry.

HOW TO AVOID SCAMS WHEN BUYING OR SELLING PROPERTY

✔️ Verify Ownership: Conduct land and title searches.
✔️ Work with Trusted Agents: Avoid street agents (Omonile) without proof of legitimacy.
✔️ No Cash Transactions: Always use the bank for records.
✔️ Check Government Approvals: Avoid properties under acquisition.
✔️ Use a Lawyer: Never sign documents without legal advice.
✔️ Meet at Safe Locations: Avoid transactions in hidden places.

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS TO FOLLOW

  1. Verify Land Titles (C of O, Governor’s Consent, etc.).
  2. Obtain Land Search Reports from the State Land Registry.
  3. Follow Due Process for Title Transfers (Deed of Assignment, Stamping, Registration).
  4. Pay the Necessary Taxes & Fees (Capital Gains Tax, Stamp Duty, etc.).
  5. Use a Licensed Surveyor and Lawyer for documentation.