Buying land is one of the smartest and most rewarding investments anyone can make in Nigeria. Whether you’re looking to build a home, start a business, or grow your investment portfolio, land remains one of the few assets that almost never depreciates.
But while owning land is a dream for many, the journey to getting it can be filled with hidden risks. From fraudulent sales to confusing paperwork and unclear ownership, a small oversight can cost you a lifetime of regret.
Here’s what you should really look out for before purchasing land, especially in Nigeria’s ever-changing real estate market.
- Confirm Who Owns the Land
This is the first and most important step. Don’t ever rely solely on what the seller or agent tells you. Always ask for proof of ownership, usually a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Deed of Assignment, or Registered Survey.
Then, you can go a step further to visit the land registry in the state where the property is located and verify that the name on the documents matches the seller’s. If the land is family-owned, ensure every key member of that family consents to the sale. Many buyers lose their investment because a family member later shows up to dispute the transaction.
- Check the Title Documents Carefully
Different lands carry different titles and each comes with its own implications. Some lands are freehold; others are under government acquisition, which means you can’t legally build there.
Watch out for phrases like:
- “Excision in process” (not yet approved)
- “Global C of O” (the land may belong to an estate developer, not the individual)
- “Gazetted land” (approved for ownership but still needs proper documentation)
When in doubt, always consult a property lawyer or a verified real estate company to interpret the details before making any payments.
- Visit the Site Physically
It’s one thing to see land on paper or in photos, it’s another to see it with your own eyes. A physical inspection reveals more than you think: accessibility, terrain, flood risk, and even how developed or safe the area feels.
Don’t send representatives alone; if you can, go yourself. Talk to residents or neighbors nearby. Ask questions like:
- Is there ongoing development in the area?
- Is the land under government acquisition?
- Are there disputes on the land?
A few conversations on-site can save you millions down the line.
- Conduct a Land Survey
A survey plan is one of the most essential documents in land acquisition. It shows the boundaries, size, and exact location of the land.
Before you buy, get a licensed surveyor to map the land and cross-check the coordinates at the Surveyor-General’s office. This confirms that the land exists where the documents claim it does and that it’s not overlapping someone else’s property.
Many fake sellers recycle the same survey plan for multiple plots. A proper verification exposes that instantly.
- Understand the Zoning and Future Development Plans
Every area has zoning laws that determine what can and cannot be built there. Some lands are strictly residential, others commercial or agricultural. Buying land for a housing project in a government-reserved industrial zone, for instance, could cause problems later.
Check if the location aligns with your plans and if there are any future government projects that could affect it (like road expansion or drainage construction).
- Insist on a Proper Sale Agreement
Once you’ve confirmed ownership, inspection, and documentation, seal the transaction with a formal Deed of Assignment. This legally transfers ownership from seller to buyer and must be signed by both parties in the presence of witnesses.
Then, make sure the document is registered at the Land Registry, this step makes your ownership official and legally recognized.
- Work With Trusted Professionals
This can’t be overstated. Real estate in Nigeria can be complex, but professionals exist to make the process simple and safe. Working with a reputable company like Auspicious Properties ensures you’re dealing with verified lands, transparent processes, and full documentation.
Your realtor should be your guide, not your gamble. They help you inspect, verify, and acquire land confidently, so you can focus on your goals instead of worrying about fraud.
Buying land isn’t just a transaction, it’s a foundation for the future. Whether it’s for your dream home or long-term investment, take your time, verify every detail, and work with experts who value your peace of mind as much as you do.
We make land ownership simple, transparent, and secure. Contact us to get started.