What to Look Out For When Buying a Land in Lagos

Before buying land in Lagos, check these things
BY Godswill Igbokwe October 10, 2024

Buying a land in Lagos is a huge decision. It is a big investment that comes with a lot of excitement but also a lot of risks. Lagos is one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa, so acquiring land here is a smart move for anyone looking to invest. 

However, purchasing land in Lagos can be tricky, and if you are not careful, you could fall into one of the many traps that come with land transactions.

In this article, we will explore all the important things you need to look out for when buying land in Lagos to ensure you have a smooth and successful experience.

1. Verify the Land Title

The first thing you must do before purchasing any land is to verify the land title. The land title is a legal document that proves who owns the land. Without a proper title, you could end up losing your money or getting involved in legal battles later on.

Before moving forward with any land purchase, it is important to work with a property lawyer. They can help you verify that the title is authentic and that there are no legal issues with the land.

2. Check the Zoning Plans

Zoning regulations determine what the land can be used for. Some areas in Lagos are designated for residential purposes, while others are reserved for commercial or agricultural use. 

Before buying land in Lagos, it is important to know what the land is zoned for. You don’t want to buy land that is meant for commercial use if your plan is to build a home.

You can visit the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development to check the zoning status of the land. Alternatively, you can hire a town planner to help you with this.

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3. Make Sure the Land Is Not Under Government Acquisition

Lagos is constantly developing, and the government sometimes sets aside land for future projects like schools, hospitals, or roads. If you buy land that is under government acquisition, you risk losing the land without any compensation. To avoid this, you must ensure that the land is free from government acquisition.

You can visit the Lagos State Land Bureau to check if the land has been marked for government use. 

If the land is free from government acquisition, it is referred to as “gazetted land.” Buying gazetted land means the government has no plans for it, so it is safe to proceed with your purchase.

4. Get a Proper Land Survey

A land survey is a critical step in the process of buying land. The survey outlines the exact boundaries of the land, ensuring you know what you are buying. 

Without a proper survey, you could accidentally buy less land than you think or even encroach on someone else’s property, leading to disputes.

Before purchasing the land, request the survey documents from the seller and have a licensed surveyor confirm that everything matches up. This will also help you verify that the land size aligns with what is stated in the title documents.

5. Investigate the Seller’s Background

It is important to know who you are dealing with when buying a 7land in Lagos. Unfortunately, Lagos has seen many cases of land scams where people sell land they don’t actually own. To avoid falling victim to such scams, make sure you do a background check on the seller.

Ask the seller for identification, proof of ownership, and any other relevant documents. If possible, talk to neighbors or other people in the area to confirm the seller’s identity and reputation. A legitimate seller should be able to provide all the necessary information without hesitation.

6. Check for Any Encumbrances on the Land

Encumbrances are legal claims or restrictions on the land that could affect your ownership. For example, the land might have unpaid taxes or be involved in a court case. If you purchase land with encumbrances, you could inherit these problems, which could be costly to resolve.

To protect yourself, have your lawyer conduct a thorough search at the Lagos State Land Registry to ensure there are no encumbrances on the land. This will save you from unexpected legal or financial issues down the road.

7. Consider the Location and Accessibility

When it comes to real estate, location is key. The location of the land will determine its value both now and in the future. If you are buying land as an investment, it is important to choose an area that has the potential for growth and development.

Also, consider how accessible the land is. Is it close to major roads? Are there schools, hospitals, markets, and other essential services nearby? Accessibility and proximity to infrastructure can greatly impact the value of the land.

8. Look at the Topography and Physical Features

The topography of the land refers to its physical features, such as elevation, soil type, and whether it is prone to flooding. These factors are important to consider when buying land. 

For example, if the land is in a flood-prone area, it could be difficult or expensive to build on. Similarly, if the soil is too rocky, you may need to invest in costly site preparation before you can begin construction.

Visit the land in person to inspect it, and if possible, bring a surveyor or civil engineer to assess whether the land is suitable for your plans.

9. Consider Future Development Plans

Lagos is constantly growing, with new roads, bridges, and infrastructure projects being developed all the time. It is a good idea to find out what future development plans the government has for the area where you are considering buying land. Future development can increase the value of your property, making it a smart investment.

10. Budget for Additional Costs

When buying land in Lagos, it is important to remember that the purchase price is not the only cost involved. There are additional expenses such as:

  • Legal fees for drafting and reviewing contracts.
  • Survey fees for confirming the boundaries of the land.
  • Stamp duty and registration fees.
  • Agency fees if you are working with a real estate agent.

Make sure to budget for these costs so that you are fully prepared.

11. Understand the Risks of Omo-Onile

One of the challenges of buying land in Lagos is dealing with “Omo-onile.” These are local landowners or land grabbers who may try to claim ownership of the land even after you have legally purchased it. They often demand illegal fees or harass new landowners.

To avoid issues with Omo-onile, make sure you buy land from a reputable seller and involve local authorities and your lawyer in the transaction. In some cases, you may also need to settle with the Omo-onile to avoid future disputes, but this must be handled carefully and legally.

12. Hire a Qualified Property Lawyer

Finally, always work with a qualified property lawyer when buying land. A lawyer will help you navigate the complexities of land transactions, from verifying the title to drafting the legal documents. They will ensure that your rights are protected and that you don’t fall victim to fraud.

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Conclusion

Buying land in Lagos can be a rewarding investment if you take the necessary precautions. Always verify the land title, check for zoning regulations, make sure the land is free from government acquisition, and conduct a proper survey. Don’t forget to investigate the seller’s background, check for encumbrances, and work with a qualified property lawyer throughout the process. 

By following these steps, you will minimize your risks and ensure that your land purchase goes smoothly.

Do you desire to buy land in Epe, Ibeju-Lekki or Enugu? Call or send a WhatsApp message to +2348134794494

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