How to Avoid Real Estate Scams in Nigeria Guide
The rise of real estate investment opportunities in Nigeria has also led to an increase in real estate scams in Nigeria. Every year, thousands of Nigerians—both at home and abroad—lose millions of naira to fake property deals, illegal agents, and unverified land sales.
If you’re planning to buy or invest in property, it’s crucial to understand how to identify and avoid real estate scams in Nigeria. This guide will help you protect your hard-earned money and invest with confidence.
Here are the Steps to Avoid Real Estate Scams in Nigeria
1. Verify the Property Title Documents
Before making any payment, ensure the property has valid and verifiable documents. Ask for:
- Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
- Deed of Assignment
- Survey Plan
- Governor’s Consent
Visit the Land Registry Office in the state where the property is located to confirm ownership and authenticity.
👉 Related Reading: How to Buy Property in Nigeria from Abroad
2. Avoid Deals That Sound Too Good to Be True
If the price is suspiciously low compared to market value, it’s a red flag. Fraudsters often lure buyers with cheap offers on prime properties in high-ROI real estate locations in Nigeria such as Lekki, Ikoyi, or Abuja.
Always cross-check market rates on reputable platforms like Jupegan.com or trusted real estate agents before making a decision.
3. Work Only with Registered Real Estate Companies
To avoid real estate scams in Nigeria, engage professionals who are registered with the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) or the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV).
At Jupegan Real Estate, we work only with verified developers and ensure every property listed undergoes a thorough background check to guarantee authenticity.
4. Visit the Property in Person (or Virtually)
Never buy a property you haven’t seen. If you live abroad, request a virtual property inspection via video call or through a trusted representative.
Jupegan provides 360° virtual tours for Nigerians in the diaspora looking to safely invest in properties across Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.
🌍 Explore: Luxury Apartments for Sale in Lekki
5. Get a Lawyer Involved Before Any Payment
Before signing any documents or paying for property, hire a real estate lawyer to review the documents. Lawyers help ensure that the title is valid, the seller has full rights to sell, and there are no legal encumbrances.
6. Beware of “Family Land” Without Clear Ownership
Many scams in Nigeria involve family lands sold by individuals without consent from all rightful owners. Always demand a land ownership declaration and verify all signatures before buying.
7. Demand a Proper Receipt and Agreement: To Avoid Real Estate Scams in Nigeria
Ensure you receive:
- A stamped Deed of Assignment
- Sales Agreement signed by both parties
- Official Payment Receipt with details of transaction
Keep all documents safe—they’re your proof of ownership.
8. Use Trusted Platforms Like Jupegan.com
When investing in real estate, always use trusted and transparent platforms. Jupegan.com connects you directly with verified developers and authentic listings across Nigeria’s top high-ROI real estate locations—such as Lekki, Ikoyi, and Victoria Island.
👉 Visit: Jupegan.com – Discover Verified Properties in Nigeria
Conclusion
Avoiding real estate scams in Nigeria requires vigilance, verification, and working with trusted professionals. Don’t let greed or urgency push you into hasty decisions.
At Jupegan Real Estate, we make real estate investment safe, transparent, and profitable for both Nigerians at home and abroad.
