Buying land can be one of the smartest investments in Nigeria, but it also requires patience, verification and clear documentation. Before you pay for any plot, use this checklist to slow down, ask the right questions and protect yourself from avoidable mistakes.
1. Confirm the exact location
Do not rely only on verbal descriptions like “near the express” or “close to the estate gate.” Visit the location, check the access road, confirm the nearest landmarks and make sure the land shown to you is the same land described in the documents.
2. Verify the seller’s authority
Find out whether the seller is the real owner, an authorized family representative, an agent, a developer or a company. Ask for evidence of authority, especially if the seller is acting on behalf of someone else.
3. Ask for title documents
Request available documents such as C of O, Deed of Assignment, Deed of Conveyance, Gazette, Excision, Allocation Letter, Survey Plan or other relevant records. The type of document available will affect the next step of verification.
4. Check the survey plan
The survey should identify the land size, coordinates, boundaries and survey information. A professional should help confirm whether the survey matches the physical land and whether the land falls within any known acquisition, committed area or restricted zone.
5. Understand the land use
Some areas are suitable for residential development, while others may be planned for commercial, industrial, agricultural or public use. Make sure the land use fits your purpose before payment.
6. Check access and infrastructure
Consider the road network, drainage, electricity access, security, future development and distance from key locations. Cheap land with poor access may become expensive later when development begins.
7. Confirm all extra costs
The advertised price may not include survey fees, documentation fees, development levy, legal fees, agency commission, allocation fees or community-related costs. Ask for a complete breakdown before you commit.
8. Investigate disputes
Ask whether the land is family land, community land, estate land or government allocation. Look out for boundary disputes, competing sellers, court cases, family disagreement or unclear allocation history.
9. Inspect more than once
Visit during the day, ask local questions and, where possible, visit with a surveyor or trusted property professional. For diaspora buyers, request a proper video inspection, photos, landmarks and independent verification.
10. Use proper documentation
After agreement, ensure the transaction is documented properly. Receipts alone are not enough for serious property transactions. A lawyer should review, prepare or confirm the right transaction documents.
Final buyer advice
Never rush because someone says “another buyer is ready.” Good property will still require proper checks. When in doubt, pause and verify.
Speak with House and Land Naija before you buy.
Our team can assist with property search, inspection support, document review requests, diaspora assistance and seller enquiries.