Understanding Types of Real Estate Frauds in Nigeria

Property scams come in many forms, but knowing the common types helps you stay alert:

Land Grabbing Scams: Fraudsters sell land they don’t own, often targeting multiple buyers for the same plot.

Fake Document Scams: Scammers create convincing but fake ownership papers and certificates.

Property Flipping Fraud: This is when scammers quickly buy and sell properties using false information to inflate prices artificially. They often target eager buyers who don’t do proper research.

Online Property Scams: How to avoid property scam in Nigeria online? Be extra careful with properties advertised only online, especially at unusually low prices.

Double Allocation: Government or traditional authorities mistakenly or deliberately allocate the same land to multiple people.

Key Documents Required for Land Purchase in Nigeria

Before buying any property, you must understand the documents required for land purchase in Nigeria. Missing or fake documents are the biggest red flags:

Essential Documents:

• Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

• Deed of Assignment

• Survey Plan

• Tax Clearance Certificate

• Building Approval (if there’s a structure)

• Receipt of Purchase

Additional Documents to Request:

• Family Receipt (for family land)

• Customary Right of Occupancy

• Governor’s Consent (for statutory rights)

• Power of Attorney (if seller is represented)

How to Spot a Fake Land Document in Nigeria

Fake documents are getting more sophisticated, but you can still spot them:

Red Flags in Documents:

• Poor quality printing or paper

• Spelling errors and grammatical mistakes

• Missing official stamps or seals

• Inconsistent information across documents

• Suspiciously low file numbers

• Documents that look too new for claimed dates

Verification Steps:

• Cross-check document numbers with relevant government offices

• Verify stamps and seals with issuing authorities

• Compare signatures across multiple documents

• Check if the survey plan matches the physical location

Things to Know Before Buying Land in Nigeria

Smart preparation prevents most scams. Here’s what every diaspora investor should know:

Research the Location:

• Visit Google Maps to verify the area exists

• Check if the location matches the address on documents

• Research the neighborhood’s development plans

• Confirm access roads and basic infrastructure

Understand Land Laws:

• Each state has different land laws and requirements

• Some areas restrict foreign ownership

• Traditional vs. statutory rights affect ownership

• Governor’s consent may be required for transfers

Budget for Additional Costs:

• Survey fees

• Legal fees for verification

• Documentation costs

• Development levies

• Potential government consent fees

How Can I Protect Myself from Being Scammed?

Protection starts with smart practices and the right support system:

Essential Protection Steps:

1. Never Pay Full Amount Upfront: Legitimate sellers accept installment payments

2. Use Trusted Legal Representatives: Don’t rely on the seller’s lawyer only

3. Physically Inspect the Land: Either visit yourself or send a trusted representative

4. Verify Everything Independently: Don’t take anyone’s word for granted

5. Research the Seller: Check their reputation and previous transactions

6. Get Multiple Opinions: Consult different lawyers and surveyors

What is the Best Way to Avoid Being Scammed?

The best protection is having reliable local support. This is where SendZira’s real estate assistance becomes invaluable. We connect you with verified, trustworthy professionals who protect your interests.

Warning Signs of Property Scams

Trust your instincts when you notice these red flags:

Seller Red Flags:

• Pressure to buy immediately

• Reluctance to show original documents

• Asking for payment in cash only

• No fixed office address

• Poor communication or evasive answers

• Significantly below-market pricing

Property Red Flags:

• No physical access to the land

• Conflicting boundary descriptions

• Missing infrastructure in supposedly developed areas

• Local community disputes about ownership

• Multiple people claiming ownership

How to Verify Property Ownership Legitimately

Step-by-Step Verification Process:

1. Document Authentication: Take all documents to relevant government offices for verification

2. Physical Survey: Hire an independent surveyor to confirm boundaries

3. Community Check: Speak with neighbors and local chiefs about the land

4. Legal Search: Have a lawyer conduct a proper title search

5. Government Confirmation: Verify with state land registry and local government

6. Banking Check: Ensure all payments go through proper banking channels

Online Property Investment Safety

How to avoid property scam in Nigeria online requires extra caution:

Online Safety Rules:

• Never send money based on online listings alone

• Video call with sellers to verify legitimacy

• Request multiple photos and videos of the property

• Use secure payment methods with proper documentation

• Research the website or platform’s reputation

• Meet sellers virtually before any financial commitment

Working with Trusted Professionals

Building Your Support Team:

• Licensed real estate lawyers

• Certified surveyors

• Registered estate agents

• Banking partners for secure transactions

• Local representatives you can trust

Questions to Ask Professionals:

• Are you licensed and registered?

• Can you provide references from other diaspora clients?

• What’s your verification process?

• How do you handle disputes?

• What are your complete fees upfront?

Red Flags in Communication

Warning Signs in Interactions:

• Sellers who avoid phone calls

• Refusal to provide additional documentation

• Changing stories about property history

• Unwillingness to allow independent verification

• High-pressure sales tactics

• Promises that seem too good to be true

Taking Action When You Suspect a Scam

If something feels wrong:

1. Stop all payments immediately

2. Document all communications and transactions

3. Contact local authorities if money was already sent

4. Seek legal advice quickly

5. Report to relevant government agencies

6. Warn other potential victims in diaspora communities

Making Safe Property Investments

Property investment in Nigeria can be profitable and safe when you:

• Take time to research thoroughly

• Work with trusted local professionals

• Verify everything independently

• Follow legal processes completely

• Maintain realistic expectations

• Build relationships with reliable contacts

Your Partner in Safe Property Investment

Investing in Nigerian property from abroad doesn’t have to be scary. With proper knowledge, trusted professionals, and reliable support systems, you can make smart investments safely.

SendZira specializes in connecting diaspora Nigerians with verified real estate professionals who understand your unique challenges. We help you navigate the complex property market while protecting your interests every step of the way.

Don’t let fear of scams prevent you from achieving your property investment dreams. With the right guidance and support, you can safely invest in Nigerian real estate and build the future you’ve been planning.

Ready to start your safe property investment journey? Connect with trusted professionals who put your interests first.