The process involved in home sales in Nigeria can feel like a big task, especially if you are doing it for the first time. Before you put your property up for sale, there are important things you need to do to make sure everything goes smoothly. This checklist will guide you step-by-step on what to prepare, from fixing your house, gathering the right documents, to understanding how to price your property well. If you follow the instructions we will provide below, they will help you avoid problems when selling your property in the country. The information provided here will also help you attract serious buyers, and get the best value for your home. Whether you live in Lagos, Abuja, or any other city, this easy-to-follow guide is made to help you sell your property with confidence and success.
Learn about real estate market in your locality
Before you start buying a home, it is important to understand how the real estate market works in your area. First, take time to research local property prices and recent sales. This will help you know how much homes like the one you want usually cost and what to expect. Prices can be very different depending on the city or neighborhood, so focus on the places you are interested in.
Next, look at current market trends and demand. For example, in Nigeria, cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt are growing fast, and many people are looking to buy homes there. This means prices may be higher and homes can sell quickly. Also, factors like rising building costs and inflation can affect prices and how long it takes to buy a home.
Finally, think about who usually buys homes in your target area. Are they mostly families, young professionals, or investors? Knowing your target buyer group helps you understand what type of home is in demand and how long it might take to complete the purchase.
Doing adequate research will give you a clearer idea of the right price to pay, the best time to buy, and what to expect in the home-buying process in Nigeria.
Obtain the property valuation
Property valuation means finding out how much the house or land is really worth. This helps you and the seller agree on a fair price before you make any payment or sign any papers. Understanding property valuation can save you time and stress during your home buying journey in Nigeria.
Conduct a professional property valuation to set a realistic price
In Nigeria, the best way to get a correct value for a property is to hire a professional valuer. These are experts called Estate Surveyors and Valuers who are registered and licensed to carry out property valuations. They visit the property, check its condition, size, location, and other important details. After this, they prepare a report that shows the estimated market value of the property. This professional valuation is very important because it helps you avoid paying too much or getting a bad deal. Also, banks usually require a valuation report before approving a mortgage loan, so having this done early can speed up your buying process.
Consider important factors like location, size, condition, and market conditions
Several things affect how much a property is worth in Nigeria. The first and most important is the location. For example, a house in a busy, well-developed city like Lagos or Abuja will usually be more expensive than one in a less developed area. Next is the size of the property—how big the land is and how many rooms the house has. The condition of the property also matters; a well-maintained home will be valued higher than one that needs repairs. Finally, the current market conditions play a role. If many people want to buy houses in that area, prices may be higher. On the other hand, if the market is slow, prices may drop. A good valuer will look at all these factors carefully to give you a realistic price.
Use online tools or consult real estate agents for valuation
If you are just starting and want a quick idea of a property’s value, you can use online tools available on Nigerian real estate websites. These tools compare similar properties recently sold in the area and give an estimate. However, these estimates are not always very accurate because they don’t consider the unique features of your property. For a better valuation, you should talk to local real estate agents who know the market well. They can give you a good idea of the price range based on their experience and recent sales. Still, for the most accurate and official valuation, hiring a professional valuer is the best choice.
Prepare the property for sale
When you take time to clean, repair, and improve your house, it helps attract buyers faster and can shorten how long it takes to sell. Check below for some simple but effective things you should do to get your home ready.
Declutter and deep clean the entire property
The first thing you should do is remove all unnecessary items and personal belongings from your home. This means clearing out excess furniture, toys, clothes, and anything that makes rooms look crowded. When a house is tidy and spacious, buyers can better imagine themselves living there. After decluttering, do a deep cleaning of every room. Clean floors, windows, kitchen surfaces, bathrooms, and even ceilings if needed. A clean house looks fresh and well cared for, which makes a good impression on buyers and can speed up the sale process.
Make necessary repairs
Before listing your home, check for any repairs that need to be done. Fix leaking taps, broken electrical fittings, cracked walls, or damaged doors and windows. Buyers often look for homes that are move-in ready, so small repairs can make a big difference. Also, make sure the plumbing and electrical systems are working well. If there are bigger structural issues, it is best to fix them or at least disclose them honestly to avoid delays later. Taking care of repairs early helps avoid problems during buyer inspections and keeps the sale moving smoothly.
Consider minor renovations or cosmetic upgrades
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on major renovations, but small upgrades can increase your home’s value and appeal. A fresh coat of paint in neutral colors can brighten rooms and make them look newer. Replace old light fixtures, door handles, or kitchen cabinet knobs to give your home a modern touch. These small changes show buyers that the house has been well maintained. When your home looks attractive and updated, it often sells faster and at a better price.
Enhance curb appeal
The outside of your home is the first thing buyers see, so it needs to look inviting. Take time to mow the lawn, trim bushes, and remove any rubbish or clutter from the yard. Clean the driveway and pathways so they look neat. If the front door or gate needs painting, do it before listing. A welcoming entrance makes a positive first impression and encourages buyers to want to see more. In addition, a good curb appeal can shorten the time your property stays on the market.
Documentation preparation
If you have the right papers ready, you can avoid delays and problems when selling your property. Make sure also that the paper and documents are genuine
Gather all legal documents
Before you can complete the purchase of a home, you need to collect some key legal documents from the seller. These documents prove that the seller truly owns the property and that the property is free from legal problems. The main documents you should ask for include:
- Certificate of occupancy (C of O): This is the most important document in any land or property transaction in Nigeria. It is issued by the state government and shows that the person named on it has legal rights to the land. Without a valid C of O, you cannot be sure that the property really belongs to the seller. The C of O protects you from fraud and helps you prove ownership after buying the home.
- Deed of assignment: This document transfers ownership from the seller to you, the buyer. It is the final legal paper that confirms the sale and shows that the property now belongs to you. The Deed of Assignment also traces the history of ownership, so you know the property has a clear title.
- Survey plan: This paper shows the exact size, location, and boundaries of the land or property. It is important because it helps you confirm that the property matches what the seller says. The survey plan is also used to check if the land is under any government acquisition or if it overlaps with other properties.
- Building plan Approval (if applicable): If the property has buildings on it, you should also ask for the approved building plan. This shows that the structures were built legally and according to government rules. Having this plan can save you from future legal troubles or demolition orders.
Ensure all documents are up-to-date and authentic
Once you have these documents, the next important step is to check that they are current and real. Fake or outdated documents are common problems in Nigerian property sales, and they can cause serious delays or even loss of money. You should:
- Verify that the Certificate of Occupancy is still valid and has not expired or been revoked.
- Check that the Deed of Assignment is properly signed and stamped.
- Confirm that the Survey Plan matches the actual land and is recent.
- Make sure the Building Plan Approval is genuine and issued by the correct authority.
If you are not sure how to do this, it is wise to hire a real estate lawyer or professional to help you check the papers carefully.
Verify property title and ownership with land registry
The final step in documentation preparation is to visit the Land Registry office where the property is located. The Land Registry keeps official records of all land and property ownership in the state. By conducting a search at the registry, you can confirm:
- That the seller is the true owner of the property.
- That there are no disputes or claims against the property.
- That the property is free from government acquisition or other restrictions.
This verification can take some time, but it is necessary to avoid buying a property with hidden problems. It also helps speed up the final registration process once you complete the purchase.
Hire professionals
These experts and professionals will help you sell your home faster, avoid problems, and get the best price. The three main professionals you should work with are a reputable real estate agent, a qualified real estate lawyer, and a professional valuer.
Hire a reputable real estate agent with local market knowledge
A real estate agent is a trained professional who helps you sell your home by connecting you with buyers and handling many parts of the sale process. In Nigeria, the property market can be tricky because prices and demand vary widely depending on the area. This is why it is important to choose an agent who knows the local market well.
A good agent understands the current prices of homes in your neighborhood and can advise you on a fair selling price. They also know how to market your property, using online platforms, social media, and other advertising tools to reach potential buyers. Beyond marketing, agents arrange property viewings, negotiate with buyers on your behalf, and help close the deal smoothly.
When looking for an agent, ask for recommendations from friends or family, check their experience, and confirm they are licensed. A trustworthy agent will guide you through the entire selling process, help you avoid scams, and save you time and stress.
Consult a qualified real estate lawyer for legal guidance
Selling a home in Nigeria involves a lot of legal paperwork. To avoid future problems, it is very important to hire a qualified real estate lawyer. The lawyer will check all your property documents, such as the Certificate of Occupancy, deed of assignment, and survey plan, to make sure everything is genuine and up to date.
The lawyer also helps prepare and review the sales agreement, ensuring it protects your rights and clearly states the terms of the sale. They guide you on paying the right taxes and stamp duties, and assist with registering the property transfer at the land registry. This legal support prevents fraud and delays, giving you peace of mind during the sale.
Though involving a lawyer might add some time to the process, it is a necessary step to avoid costly mistakes or legal issues after the sale.
Consider a professional valuer for accurate property assessment
Before you set a price or accept an offer, it is important to know the true value of your home. A professional valuer visits your property and examines its condition, location, size, and other factors to give an expert estimate of its market worth.
In Nigeria, property prices can vary greatly, and sellers sometimes ask for too much or too little. A valuation helps you set a realistic price that will attract serious buyers while ensuring you get a fair deal. It also strengthens your position during negotiations.Banks and buyers often require a valuation report before finalizing the sale, so getting this done early can speed up the process and avoid disagreements over price later.
Market your property
Good marketing will help you reach more buyers quickly and can even help you sell your home faster and at a better price. Check below for some simple and effective ways to market your property before listing it.
List your property on popular Nigerian real estate platforms
One of the best ways to get your property seen by many buyers is to list it on popular real estate websites in Nigeria. Websites like PropertyPro.ng, Jiji.ng, and PrivateProperty.com.ng are very popular among Nigerians looking to buy homes. These platforms attract thousands of visitors daily, so putting your property there increases the chance that serious buyers will find it.
When you list your property, make sure to provide clear details such as location, size, price, and special features. Also, choose the right category (for sale) and update your listing regularly. These websites often allow you to add photos and videos, which help buyers get a better idea of what you are selling. Using these platforms is a smart way to reach a large audience without spending too much money.
Use social media channels for wider reach
Social media is a powerful tool for marketing your property. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are widely used in Nigeria and can help you reach friends, family, and even strangers who might be interested in buying your home.
On Facebook and Instagram, you can post pictures and videos of your property, write a good description, and share your post in groups related to real estate or your local community. You can also ask your friends to share your post to reach more people. WhatsApp is useful for sharing your property details directly with contacts or in WhatsApp groups where people discuss buying and selling homes.
Using social media is free and fast, and it allows you to connect with potential buyers directly. You can also use paid ads on Facebook and Instagram to target people in specific locations or age groups, which can bring even better results.
Prepare high-quality photos and videos to showcase your property
One of the most important parts of marketing your property is showing it in the best light. High-quality photos and videos help buyers see the true value of your home and can make them more interested.
Before taking pictures, clean and tidy your home. Remove clutter, fix small problems, and make sure the lighting is good. Take photos from different angles to show all the important parts of your home, including the living room, bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, and outside areas like the garden or driveway.
Videos are even better because they give buyers a virtual tour of your property. You can use your phone to record a simple walk-through of the house, pointing out special features. If possible, consider hiring a professional photographer or videographer who knows how to make your property look attractive.Good photos and videos will create a strong first impression and encourage buyers to contact you for a viewing. Poor pictures, on the other hand, can make buyers lose interest quickly.
Set the right price
The price you choose for the property to be sold can affect how quickly it sells and how much money you get from the sale. Some simple but key points to help you set a good price are highlighted below:
Price competitively based on valuation and market research
To set the right price, you first need to know what your property is really worth. This is where property valuation comes in. In Nigeria, professional estate surveyors and valuers use methods like the market comparison approach to find out the value of your home. This means they look at similar properties in your area that have recently sold and compare their prices with yours. They also consider factors like location, size, condition, and available amenities to give a fair estimate.
Doing your own market research is also helpful. Check online property sites, ask local agents, or talk to neighbors who have sold recently. This will give you an idea of what buyers are willing to pay in your neighborhood. Pricing your home competitively means setting a price close to these market values. If your price is fair, you attract more buyers and increase your chances of selling quickly.
Avoid overpricing to attract more buyers
Many sellers make the mistake of overpricing their property because they want to get the highest possible amount. But overpricing can actually make your home stay longer on the market without selling. Buyers today are smart and often compare prices before making offers. If your price is too high compared to similar homes, they may ignore your listing or wait for the price to drop.
In Nigeria’s real estate market, where buyers have many options, a property that is priced too high can lose interest quickly. Overpricing can also lead to fewer viewings and less serious offers. It is better to price your home realistically and attract more buyers. This increases competition and may even lead to multiple offers, giving you a better chance to sell at a good price.
Be prepared to negotiate offers
Once you list your property at the right price, expect buyers to make offers. Not everyone will pay your asking price immediately. Negotiation is a normal part of selling a home in Nigeria. You should be ready to discuss the price and other terms like payment plans or move-in dates.
Having a clear idea of your lowest acceptable price before negotiations start can help you stay firm and avoid selling for less than your property’s worth. Also, working with a real estate agent can make negotiations easier because they understand the market and can help you get the best deal. Openness to negotiation will showthe buyers that you are serious and flexible, which can speed up the sale. However, don’t rush to accept the first offer if it is too low. Take time to evaluate each offer carefully.
Home inspection and repairs
A proper home inspection will help you to find and fix any problems that can scare away buyers or lower the value of your home. You should take time to inspect and repair your property as this will make it look better, work well, and sell faster. The points below will guide you on how to do this perfectly.
Conduct a thorough inspection to identify issues buyers might find
Start by carefully checking every part of your home, both outside and inside. Look at the foundation and walls for any cracks or signs of damage. Check the roof for leaks, missing shingles, or weak spots that could cause problems during the rainy season. Also, examine the gutters and drainage to make sure water flows away from the house properly.
Inside the house, test all the electrical switches, sockets, and appliances to confirm they work well. Look for any signs of water damage like stains on the ceiling or walls, which could mean leaks. Check for mold or pest problems, as these can be a big concern for buyers. Don’t forget to inspect the floors, doors, and windows to make sure they open and close smoothly without damage.
In addition, pay close attention to the plumbing system. Turn on taps and showers to check water pressure and look under sinks for leaks or rust. Also, test toilets to ensure they flush properly. If your home has air conditioning or heating systems, make sure they are working efficiently.
By doing a detailed inspection, you will know exactly what needs fixing before buyers come to see your home. This step helps you avoid surprises during the sale process and builds trust with potential buyers.
Fix minor defects (leaks, cracks, faulty wiring)
After the inspection, make a list of all the small problems you find. Fixing these minor defects is very important because buyers notice them and may lower their offer or lose interest.
Repair any leaks in the roof or plumbing to prevent water damage. Seal cracks in walls and ceilings to improve the look and safety of your home. Fix faulty electrical wiring and replace broken switches or sockets to avoid hazards and show that your home is safe.
Even small repairs like repainting walls, tightening loose door handles, or replacing broken tiles can make a big difference in how buyers see your property. These fixes show that the home has been well cared for and is ready to move into.
Ensure the property is in good structural and functional condition
Beyond small repairs, make sure your home is structurally sound. This means the foundation, walls, roof, and floors should be strong and stable without major damage. If you find serious issues, consider consulting a professional builder or engineer to assess and fix them.
Also, ensure all important systems in the house work properly—plumbing, electrical, ventilation, and appliances. A home that functions well gives buyers confidence and can speed up the sale.
Finally, check the overall cleanliness and tidiness of the house. A neat, well-maintained home creates a good first impression and can help you sell faster and at a better price.
Legal and financial considerations
Understand and comply with the land use act and other property laws
In Nigeria, land ownership is controlled by the government under the Land Use Act of 1978. This means that even if you have a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or other documents, the land is technically held by the state governor on behalf of the people. Before you can legally sell your property, you must get the governor’s consent. Without this consent, the sale is not valid and can be canceled later.
This process usually involves submitting documents like your Deed of Assignment and Certificate of Occupancy to the state land bureau and paying some fees. The governor’s consent can take from 30 to 90 days depending on the state. Also, if the land is family or inherited land, you still need this consent to transfer ownership properly.
Besides the Land Use Act, you must also be aware of other laws that affect property sales, such as local government regulations and customary land rules, especially in rural areas. Ensuring you comply with all these laws protects you from legal disputes after the sale.
Pay necessary taxes and stamp duties
When selling your property, there are taxes and fees you must pay. Stamp duty is one of the main taxes involved. This is a government tax on legal documents like the Deed of Assignment used to transfer ownership. The buyer usually pays the stamp duty, but as the seller, you should make sure this is done because it affects the legality of the sale.
You may also need to pay capital gains tax (CGT) on any profit you make from selling your property. CGT is a tax on the increase in value of your property since you bought it. It is important to know how much you owe and to pay it promptly to avoid penalties. Consulting a tax professional or your lawyer can help you understand your tax responsibilities.
Prepare a clear sales agreement outlining terms and conditions
A sales agreement is a written contract between you (the seller) and the buyer. It clearly states the terms of the sale, such as the selling price, payment method, and any conditions that must be met. Having a clear and detailed sales agreement protects both parties and reduces the chance of misunderstandings or disputes.
The contract should be prepared or reviewed by a qualified lawyer to ensure it follows Nigerian property laws. It should also include what happens if either party fails to meet their obligations, such as delays in payment or failure to transfer ownership. This agreement is the foundation of a smooth sale.
Be aware of capital gains tax implications
Capital gains tax (CGT) is an important financial consideration when selling property in Nigeria. It is charged at 10% of the profit you make from the sale. The profit is the difference between the sale price and the original purchase price, minus allowable expenses like improvement costs.
You must report and pay CGT to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) within 30 days of the sale. Failure to do so can lead to fines or legal problems. Knowing about CGT early helps you plan your finances better and avoid surprises after the sale.
Negotiation and offers
The negotiation aspect of the home-selling process can take time and requires attention because it affects how much you will earn and how smoothly the sale will go. The simple guide below will show you what to do when you start receiving offers from potential buyers.
Review buyer offers carefully
When buyers show interest in your property, they will usually send you offers. These offers include the price they want to pay and other conditions like how soon they can pay or if they want you to fix something before buying. It is very important to look at each offer carefully and not just focus on the price alone.
Sometimes a higher price may come with difficult conditions that could delay the sale or cause problems later. On the other hand, a lower offer with good payment terms might be better. Take your time to understand what each buyer is offering and how it fits your needs and timeline. If you are unsure, ask your real estate agent or lawyer to explain the details to you.
Negotiate to get the best deal possible
Negotiation is a key part of selling your home. It means talking with the buyer to agree on a price and terms that work well for both of you. In Nigeria, negotiation is common in real estate sales, and it can help you get a better price or better payment conditions.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate. You can ask for a higher price if you think the offer is too low, or request that the buyer pays part of the cost upfront. You can also negotiate on who pays for repairs or legal fees. Remember, negotiation is about finding a fair middle ground.
Be polite and clear during negotiations. Avoid rushing to accept the first offer unless it meets your expectations. Sometimes buyers expect sellers to negotiate, so it’s normal to have some back and forth before agreeing.
Use your agent or lawyer to assist in negotiations
Negotiating alone can be stressful, especially if you are new to selling property. This is why working with a real estate agent or a lawyer is very helpful. These professionals have experience in Nigerian property sales and know how to handle negotiations well.
A good real estate agent understands the local market and can advise you on whether an offer is fair. They can also negotiate on your behalf, saving you time and reducing stress. Agents know how to communicate with buyers and can help avoid misunderstandings.
Similarly, a real estate lawyer can review offers and contracts to make sure everything is legal and protects your interests. They can spot any hidden problems in the terms and advise you on how to respond. Having a lawyer involved can prevent future legal troubles.
Closing the sale
Closing the saleis the moment when ownership officially moves from you to the buyer, and all the legal and financial details are completed. To close the sale properly, there are key steps you must follow to avoid problems and ensure a smooth transfer; some of the key steps are described below:
Finalize the sales agreement with legal oversight
Before anything else, you need to finalize the sales agreement. This document clearly states the terms of the sale, including the agreed price, payment method, and any other conditions. It is important that this agreement is prepared or reviewed by a qualified real estate lawyer. The lawyer will make sure the contract protects your rights and is legally binding. They will also help explain the terms so both you and the buyer understand what you are agreeing to. Having legal oversight reduces the risk of misunderstandings or disputes later on.
Receive payment as agreed
Once the sales agreement is signed, the buyer should make the payment as agreed in the contract. In Nigeria, it is common to receive payment through bank transfers for security and transparency. You must confirm that the full payment has been received before handing over the property. Sometimes, buyers pay in stages or use escrow accounts, but the key is to ensure you get the money as agreed before completing the sale. Avoid handing over keys or documents until payment is fully settled to protect yourself from fraud.
Execute the deed of assignment and register the transfer with land registry
After payment, the next crucial step is to legally transfer ownership. This is done by executing the Deed of Assignment, a legal document that formally transfers the property from you (the seller) to the buyer. This deed must be signed by both parties and witnessed properly. Your lawyer usually prepares this document.
Once signed, the Deed of Assignment must be taken to the land registry to register the transfer. Registration is very important because it makes the buyer the official owner in the eyes of the government. Without registration, the buyer’s ownership is not fully protected. The registration process can take some time depending on the state, but it is necessary to complete the sale legally.
Provide the buyer with all necessary documents
Finally, you should give the buyer all the important documents related to the property. These include the original title documents like the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), survey plans, building approvals, and any receipts or proof of payment for taxes or fees. Providing these documents helps the buyer confirm ownership and avoid future problems. It also shows that you have been transparent and honest throughout the sale.
Important thigs to do after selling the property
After you have successfully sold your property in Nigeria, there are important post-sale tasks you must complete to finish the process properly. These tasks help avoid future problems and ensure everything is settled between you, the buyer, and the authorities. Here are the key things to do after the sale.
Cancel or transfer utility services and other agreements
Once the sale is complete and the buyer has taken possession of the property, you need to cancel or transfer all utility services connected to the property. This includes electricity, water, internet, and any other services you had in your name. For example, with the Electricity Distribution Company (DisCo), you should notify them to stop billing you and arrange for the new owner to take over the account. The same applies to water supply and other service providers.
If you have any ongoing agreements related to the property, such as maintenance contracts or security services, you should either cancel them or transfer them to the new owner. This prevents you from being held responsible for bills or services after you no longer own the property. Taking care of these details quickly helps avoid confusion and extra costs.
Update your records with relevant authorities
After selling your property, it is important to update your records with the relevant government authorities. This mainly involves informing the land registry and tax offices about the change in ownership. The buyer’s lawyer usually handles registering the transfer of ownership at the land registry, but you should confirm that this has been done.
You should also update your information with the local government or property tax office to stop any property tax bills coming to you. If you fail to update these records, you might continue to receive bills or even face legal issues for property tax payments on a property you no longer own.
Keeping your records up to date with authorities protects you from future claims or liabilities related to the property.
Keep copies of all transaction documents for your records
It is very important to keep copies of all documents related to the sale for your own records. These documents include the sale agreement, deed of assignment, receipts of payment, governor’s consent (if applicable), and any correspondence with the buyer or lawyers.
Having these documents safely stored will help you in case any questions or disputes arise in the future. For example, if there is a disagreement about the sale terms or if the buyer faces problems registering the property, you can provide proof of the transaction.
It is also wise to keep digital copies backed up on your phone or computer, as well as physical copies in a safe place. This way, you can easily access them whenever needed.
Conclusion
You need careful preparation when selling a property to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. Before listing your property, you should go through the clear checklist we have provided in this guide. You should make sure your property is clean, well-maintained, and attractive to buyers. You should also fix any repairs and improve the appearance to increase its value. You can easily determine the right price for the property by researching the local market or getting a professional valuation. Note that setting a fair price helps attract serious buyers quickly.
Furthermore, gather all necessary legal documents beforehand, such as the Certificate of Occupancy and deed of assignment, to avoid delays during the sale. Working with a reputable real estate agent can also make the process easier by connecting you with buyers and handling negotiations. Finally, be ready to negotiate offers and complete the legal paperwork with the help of a qualified lawyer.
