Common Mistakes to Avoid when Purchasing Land in Nigeria

Owning land in your village is a great investment, but don’t rush into it without proper checks. Many people have lost money because they didn’t do their homework. Before you buy land in Nigeria, ensure you follow the right steps to avoid land disputes, fraudulent sellers, or government-acquired land.

Before You Buy That Land for Village, Shine Your Eye!

Ask Who Owns the Land – Verify Ownership Documents

Not all land is free for sale, even in your village! Some people sell land that belongs to multiple families, and you don’t want to buy land today and start fighting court cases tomorrow.

Before making any payment, ensure you check for these key land ownership documents in Nigeria:

• Deed of Assignment – This proves the transfer of ownership from the seller to you.
• Survey Plan – Shows the exact location and size of the land, ensuring it’s not under government acquisition.
• Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) – Confirms legal ownership and prevents future disputes.

If a seller cannot provide any of these documents, be cautious!

Check If the Area Is Developed – Don’t Buy a Landlocked Property

Don’t just buy bush! Many people rush to buy cheap land in undeveloped areas without checking accessibility and infrastructure.

Ask yourself:

• Does the land have a motorable road?
• What happens when it rains – will you need a canoe to reach your property?
• Is the land prone to flooding?
• Is the area part of a government development plan?

Avoid buying land that may turn into a swamp after one rainy season.

Community Approval Matters – Avoid Land Disputes

In many villages, land ownership goes beyond having documents. You must get approval from:

• Family heads and elders
• Local chiefs and village authorities
• The actual landowners (not just middlemen)

Failure to do this might result in land grabbing issues, where someone suddenly claims your land belongs to their ancestors.

If you wake up one day and see a stranger farming on your land, saying it belongs to their great-grandfather, you didn’t do your due diligence!

Beware of Cheap Prices – Don’t Buy Land with Problems

If land is too cheap, there’s usually a hidden problem. Common red flags include:

• The land is in dispute (family inheritance issues)
• It’s under government acquisition (may be marked for demolition)
• Poor location (no future value)

Always ask questions, confirm ownership, and do thorough land verification before paying.

Why a Real Estate Company is the Best Option for Buying Land in Nigeria

Instead of dealing with uncertain land sellers, buying from a trusted real estate company can save you stress and money. Here’s why:

• No Fraud – They ensure the land is free from disputes and government acquisition.
• Proper Documentation – They provide verified land titles, including C of O and survey plans.
• Legal Process Handled – They take care of all paperwork and ensure a smooth transfer.
• High-Value Investment – They help you buy land in locations with great future value.

Make a Smart Investment – Buy Land the Right Way!

Land investment is great, but only when done right. Avoid unnecessary stress—verify all documents, check the location, and buy from trusted real estate companies in Nigeria.

If you need expert guidance or a reliable real estate company to help you buy land without issues, reply this to book a free consultation today!