24/10/2026
WHAT IS REAL ESTATE DUE DILIGENCE IN NIGERIA? π‘
Buying land without proper checks can cost you millions of naira. A beautiful estate, an attractive price, and convincing documents do not automatically guarantee genuine ownership.
So, what is real estate due diligence?
It is the process of independently verifying a property's ownership, title documents, location, legal status, and potential risks before making payment.
Before buying land or property in Nigeria, here are 10 essential checks you must carry out:
1οΈβ£ Verify the Seller: Confirm that the seller has the legal authority to sell.
2οΈβ£ Check the Title Documents: Examine the C of O, Deed of Assignment, Gazette, excision records, and other relevant documents.
3οΈβ£ Conduct a Land Registry Search: Verify ownership records and check for registered interests or restrictions.
4οΈβ£ Check Government Acquisition: Confirm whether the land is affected by acquisition, proposed roads, or other government reservations.
5οΈβ£ Verify the Survey Plan: Confirm the coordinates, boundaries, dimensions, and exact location.
6οΈβ£ Inspect the Property: Check access roads, drainage, flooding risks, encroachment, and existing occupants.
7οΈβ£ Investigate Disputes: Check for family disagreements, court cases, multiple sales, and competing ownership claims.
8οΈβ£ Confirm Permitted Land Use: Ensure the property can legally be used for your intended purpose.
9οΈβ£ Calculate the Full Cost: Consider legal fees, survey fees, registration charges, estate fees, and other applicable expenses.
π Review the Agreement: Let a qualified property lawyer review the documents and agreement before you sign or pay.
Buying from a real estate developer? Don't rely solely on the company's reputation. Verify the title, the developer's authority, your specific plot allocation, and the documents you will receive.
At BuyLekkiNowNow Realty, our advice is simple: Buy with verified facts, not assumptions.
Remember, a receipt is not proof of a valid title, and a beautiful estate is not a guarantee of genuine ownership.
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π¬ Have you ever encountered a land-related challenge? Share your experience in the comments.