Buying land or property in Nigeria is one of the best investments you can make. But it can also be one of the riskiest if you don’t take the right steps. Every year, thousands of people lose their hard-earned money to fraud, fake agents, or government-acquired land.
At Debonchiiglobal Properties, we believe every property transaction should be safe, seamless, and stress-free. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you avoid costly mistakes.
Here are 5 things you must check before buying land (or any property) in Nigeria:
1. Verify Title Documents (C of O, Gazette, Excision)
The most important thing is to confirm the property has valid title documents. Look out for:
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) – proves government recognition of ownership.
Gazette or Excision – confirms the land has been released from government acquisition.
Deed of Assignment – shows transfer of ownership from seller to buyer.
Never rely on “word of mouth.” Insist on seeing original documents.
2. Check for Government Acquisition
Some lands are under government acquisition and cannot legally be sold. Buying such land can lead to demolition or repossession without compensation. Always confirm with the relevant state ministry (Lands Bureau) that the land is free.
3. Inspect the Property Physically
Pictures and promises can be misleading. Visit the land in person, walk around the boundaries, and check if it’s accessible, prone to flooding, or already occupied. A physical inspection gives you confidence that the property truly exists and matches the documents.
4. Confirm the Seller’s Identity
Only deal with the rightful owner or their legally authorized representative. Ask for valid ID and cross-check with the documents. If you’re buying from a family or community, ensure all rightful members consent to the sale to avoid disputes later.
5. Ensure Proper Survey Plan
A survey plan shows the exact boundaries and location of the property. With a survey, you can confirm if the land falls under government acquisition, and you’ll know the precise size you’re paying for. Always ensure it’s stamped by a licensed surveyor.
Conclusion
Buying property is a big step, and cutting corners can lead to painful losses. By following these five checks, you protect yourself from fraud, government trouble, and ownership disputes.
At Debonchiiglobal Properties, our vision is to make real estate dealings seamless and easy for everyone. That’s why, beyond selling properties, we also render property authentication services — whether it’s land, a home, a factory, or any kind of property, simply give us the details and our team will verify its authenticity before you commit.
✨ And if you already own a property but haven’t processed proper documents yet, don’t take the risk — contact us to help you facilitate authentic property documents at an affordable price. We’ll make sure your investment is legally secured.
💬 What about you?
Have you ever tried buying property in Nigeria? What challenges did you face — or what do you think buyers should always check before making payment?
👉 Share your thoughts in the comments below. We’d love to hear your experience!