For many Nigerians, to buy land in Nigeria is one of those goals to achieve before they reach retirement age or turn unemployed. Buying land has been a form of measuring wealth in Nigeria for centuries.

As an alternative to renting a house, one option that many people consider is purchasing land to build their dream home. Also, for real estate beginners, buying property for investment will come across as one of the most promising methods of earning money from real estate.

In this article, we will be analysing the various processes you will undergo before buying land in Nigeria.

1. Determine the sort of land you want

Identify the size of the land you’re looking for. Where is it located? Inform your agent what you’re looking for. You may also specify that you don’t want any land under government acquisition.

2. Budget

You must also decide on your budget. Land prices are dependent on location. Plot size in Surulere may be different in price from a plot size in Lekki. Instruct your agent on how much you are willing to spend on land

3. Inspection

The best way to determine if the land you are interested in is as described is to physically inspect the property when you or your agent come across a possible piece of land that meets your specifications

4. Conduct a search

A land search at the relevant land registry should be conducted as soon as you find a property that meets your requirements. A land search is used to determine if the seller is the authentic owner of the property if the title presented is genuine and if the land isn’t up for sale or under contest

The sale of property with disputed titles has unfortunately taken place in situations where the property was unwittingly purchased by an unknowing buyer. This particularly happens when it involves family lands.

For a land search, one must file an application letter with an affidavit of the applicant’s status and reason for the search at the appropriate land registry

5. Execution of Deed of Assignment/Conveyance

To execute the Deed of Assignment, both parties (buyer and seller) must sign and complete the Deed of Assignment along with payment for the land. If the title of the seller is good, you may now execute the Deed of Assignment.

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