Learn how to protect your money, your future, and your peace of mind.

Let’s be real – real estate scams in Nigeria are, unfortunately, everywhere.

If you’ve ever tried to buy land or rent a property, chances are you’ve heard horror stories like:

  • “The land I paid for actually belongs to someone else.”
  • “They sold the same property to five different people!”
  • “My rent money just vanished – and so did the agent.”
  • “All the documents were completely fake.”

Scary, right? It’s enough to make anyone nervous.

But here’s the good news:

Most real estate scams can actually be avoided if you just know what to look out for.

This guide is here to show you the big red flags, teach you how to spot a fraud from a mile away, and give you the right steps to stay safe and secure in Nigeria’s property market.

🚩 Red Flags You Should NEVER Ignore

“This Deal Is Too Good to Be True!”

If someone tells you a piece of land in a prime area like Lekki Phase 1 is selling for a ridiculously low price, say ₦3 million – something is definitely off.

✅ Rule of thumb: If the offer sounds too cheap, too fast, or just too easy, hit the brakes! Step back and do some serious digging. Your gut feeling is often right.

“Pay Now or Lose Out!” (Pressure to Pay Immediately)

Scammers love to use lines like:

“If you don’t pay today, someone else will buy it. This offer won’t last!”

This is a classic fear tactic. Any legitimate seller who genuinely wants your business will give you ample time to properly verify the property and its documents. Unnecessary urgency without a clear, logical reason is a massive red flag.

“Oh, About the Documents… Later!” (No Verifiable Documents)

Always, always, always ask for the crucial documents upfront. These include:

  • Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
  • Deed of Assignment
  • Survey Plan
  • Governor’s Consent

If they start hesitating, delaying, or saying things like, “Oh, we’ll send those over later” – be on high alert! You’re not buying groundnuts here; you’re investing your hard-earned money. Demand to see the papers.

“Just WhatsApp Me!” (No Physical Office or Traceable Identity)

Any serious, legitimate real estate company should have:

  • A registered business name (you can check this with the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC).
  • A physical office address you can actually visit.
  • An active, professional website and a reliable contact number.
  • Staff who can answer your questions clearly and professionally.

If all you’re getting is a WhatsApp number and vague responses, it’s time to run in the opposite direction!

“No Need to Inspect, Trust Me!” (They Don’t Let You Inspect the Property)

Legitimate agents and companies will encourage you to do a physical inspection of the property. They want you to see what you’re buying.

If they keep coming up with flimsy excuses like:

  • “I’m too busy today.”
  • “Just trust me, it’s good land, no need to see it.”
  • “The offer closes tonight, no time for inspection.”

…that’s a huge, flashing red flag 🚩. Don’t fall for it.

🔒 How to Stay Safe in Nigerian Real Estate

✅ 1. Do Your Homework (Due Diligence)

Before you buy or rent anything, always:

  • Inspect the property physically: See it with your own eyes.
  • Confirm ownership at the Land Registry Office: This is where the official records are kept.
  • Cross-check all documents with a trusted real estate lawyer: They know what to look for.
  • Check Google for reviews: See what others are saying about the company or agent.

✅ 2. Work With a Trusted Realtor

Not every “agent” you see online or in your neighborhood is legitimate.

Look for agencies with a solid reputation for being transparent and trustworthy, like PropertyLab Nigeria, who will:

  • Educate you before they try to sell you anything.
  • Provide verified listings that have been properly checked.
  • Help you with all the legal and title checks.
  • Offer site inspections and keep you updated on project progress.

✅ 3. Never Pay Cash or Transfer to a Personal Account

This is a big one! Always make payments to a registered business account.

  • Always ask for official receipts and signed documents.
  • Make sure both you and the seller (or their representative) are aware of and involved in all payment steps.
  • Avoid any transactions that leave no paper trail.

✅ 4. Get a Lawyer Involved (Seriously!)

Even if you’re buying from your favorite uncle or a close family friend, get legal eyes on all the documents.

A small legal fee now can save you millions in losses down the road. It’s an investment in your peace of mind.

✅ 5. Ask Questions. Don’t Be Shy.

If something just doesn’t feel right, speak up and ask:

  • “Who really owns this land?”
  • “Can I speak to the owner directly?”
  • “What’s the official title on this land?”
  • “Has it been registered at the land registry?”

Real, honest property sellers will have clear answers. Scammers will usually stammer, deflect, or get defensive.

🔚 Final Word: Stay Smart, Not Scared

Yes, scams exist – but remember, knowledge is power. With the right information and the right support, you can absolutely buy, sell, or rent real estate in Nigeria safely and profitably.

At PropertyLab Nigeria, we’ve helped countless first-time buyers, investors, and families avoid scams and make smart, long-term decisions in real estate.

👋 Need help verifying land or property?

📍 Want to inspect safely with professionals?

📞 Call/WhatsApp PropertyLab: [+2347038570563]

🌐 Visit: www.propertylabng.com