Be Warned! Don’t Buy Real Estate Without Reading This.
Buying property is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make—don’t rush it. Many buyers lose money not because there are no good properties—but because they don’t have the right information. A wrong property deal can set you back for years, one wrong move can cost you millions.
Many people lose money in real estate simply because they skip due diligence. Don’t be one of them. Before you pay that deposit, make sure you read this.
Before you commit, make sure you to do these:
1. Verify Land Titles
Check ownership authenticity. Understand the documentations.
Start by asking for the land’s title. Common ones include:
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Deed of Assignment
Power of Attorney
Governor’s Consent
Survey Plan
Make sure the name on the document matches the seller.
Conduct a Land Registry Search
Visit the State Land Registry where the property is located.
What to check:
True owner of the land
If the land is registered
Any government acquisition
This step confirms if the document is genuine.
Verify the Survey Plan
Take the survey plan to a licensed surveyor or survey office.
They will help you confirm:
If the land falls under government acquisition
If it’s free from road expansion or pipeline routes
Check for Encumbrances
Ask:
Is the land under dispute?
Is it being used as collateral?
Any family or community issues?
You can also involve a property lawyer for deeper checks.
Meet the Neighbours and Community
Sounds simple, but very powerful;
Ask neighbours about ownership history
Confirm the seller is known in the area
Work With a Trusted Real Estate Company
Avoid “agent time wasting or wahala” by dealing with:
Registered companies
Verified developers
This reduces risk significantly.
2. Check the Developer’s Credibility
Not all developers are trustworthy—do your homework before you make any payment.
Verify Company Registration
Check if the company is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
A legitimate developer should have a verifiable business name and RC number.
Inspect Past Projects
Visit their previous developments:
Are projects completed as promised?
What is the build quality like?
Are clients satisfied?
Check Reviews & Reputation
Ask around or go online:
What are past buyers saying?
Any complaints or disputes?
Examine Their Documents
A credible developer should provide:
Valid land titles (C of O, Governor’s Consent, etc.)
Clear layout plans
Transparent terms of purchase
Involve a Property Lawyer
Let a professional review all documents before payment.
This small step can save you millions.
Confirm Physical Office & Team
Avoid “online-only” developers with no traceable office.
A credible company should have:
A physical office
Professional staff
Clear communication channels
3. Understand The True Market Value
Don’t overpay for property – know what it’s really worth. A property might be advertised at ₦25,000,000… but its true market value could be ₦20,000,000.
Always verify before you pay.
Compare Similar Properties (Comparative Market Analysis - CMA)
Check prices of similar properties in the same area:
Same location
Same size and features
Recent sales (not just listings)
This gives you a realistic price range.
Study the Location
Location can increase or reduce value:
Good roads & accessibility
Security of the area
Proximity to schools, markets, and business hubs
Prime locations = higher value.
Understand Demand and Supply
If many buyers want property in that area, prices go up. If supply is high and demand is low, prices drop.
Check Infrastructure and Development
Ongoing or upcoming developments (roads, malls, estates) can boost value fast.
Verify Title and Legal Status
Properties with secure titles (C of O, Governor’s Consent) are more valuable than those without.
Consult Professionals
Speak with:
Real estate agents
Property valuers
Surveyors
They can give expert price insights.
4. Inspect the Property Properly
Inspect the location physically. Never pay for a property without inspecting it properly—what you don’t see can cost you millions.
Inspect the Location
Is the road accessible?
Is the area secure?
Is it prone to flooding?
Location affects both value and livability.
5. Ask Yourself These Questions Before You Buy
Is the price realistic?
Is the location developing?
Are the documents clean and verifiable?
Who is the developer behind the project?
Does your budget match the features you want?
Conclusion
Smart investors don’t guess—they verify. Real estate is not just about buying—it’s about buying RIGHT. Need guidance? Let’s help you make the right move. A wrong move can cost you millions. A smart move secures your future.
At Mannavilla Ltd, we help you:
Buy verified properties.
Invest in high-growth locations
Avoid costly mistakes
Don’t risk your money—invest wisely. Send a message today and let’s secure your future.
