Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you will ever make. In Nigeria’s property market, where documentation gaps and outright fraud are not uncommon, knowing what to watch out for can save you from a very costly mistake.

Here are the red flags that should make you pause before paying a kobo.

1. The seller cannot produce original title documents: Any legitimate property transaction should come with verifiable documents, whether a Certificate of Occupancy, Deed of Assignment, or a Governor’s Consent. Photocopies alone are not enough. Insist on originals and verify them at the relevant Land Registry.

2. The price is unusually low: If a property in Lekki, Maitama, or GRA is being offered well below market value with pressure to pay quickly, something is wrong. Distressed sales exist, but suspiciously cheap properties in prime areas are a common entry point for fraud.

3. Multiple people are claiming ownership: Family land disputes are one of the most persistent problems in Nigerian real estate. Always conduct a thorough search to confirm there are no competing claims or pending litigation on the property.

4. The agent discourages due diligence: Any seller or agent who rushes you, dismisses your questions, or resists a lawyer’s involvement is protecting something you need to find out about.

5. The property has unpaid ground rent or government charges: Inherited liabilities can become your problem the moment you take ownership. Always confirm the property has no outstanding levies or encumbrances before signing anything.

Buy with your head, not your excitement.

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