A few months ago, Michelle, a vibrant entrepreneur from the UK, leaned against the balcony railing of her new duplex in Lekki Phase 1. Innocent, her gateman, had just handed her a calabash of fresh palm wine, and as she took a sip, she whispered, “I can’t believe I actually own a home here.”
That moment? Pure magic.
If you’ve ever dreamt of buying property in Nigeria as a foreigner, you know it’s not just about bricks and mortar. It’s about having a piece of this beautiful chaos we call Lagos. It’s about waking up to the hum of the city, seeing your dreams stitched into every tile and wall.
But let’s be honest: buying property here isn’t for the faint-hearted. There’s paperwork that’ll make your head spin, laws you’ve probably never heard of, and agents who can smell a newbie from a mile away. It’s thrilling, but it can also be overwhelming.
That’s why I put this together: 7 no-nonsense, emotionally grounded tips to help you avoid the landmines and make the process as smooth as possible.
Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just about owning a house. It’s about owning your place in Nigeria.
1. Be Clear on What You Want
Do you want a plot of land where you can build your dream home from scratch? Or do you prefer a turnkey duplex you can move into next week?
Don’t skip this. Know your non-negotiables: the size, the location, and the purpose (investment or personal use). Lekki offers everything from chic apartments to sprawling estates, but if you don’t know what you want, you’ll waste time (and possibly money) chasing the wrong thing.
2. Sort Out Your Finances
Here’s the thing: Lekki isn’t cheap. And Nigeria’s property transactions? Often cash-heavy.
Get your finances in order. Know your budget (and add 15–20% for hidden costs like taxes, legal fees, and currency conversion). Double-check how you’re moving your funds into Nigeria. Exchange rates and transfer fees can bite if you’re not paying attention.
Money problems are the last thing you want when you’re this close to your dream.
3. Find a Real Agent, Not Just Any Agent
You’ve heard the stories: “I paid for land, and it wasn’t even for sale.”
Your agent can make or break this journey. Look for one who’s worked with foreign buyers and comes recommended (Hanuel Homes, for instance, has a solid track record with expats). Check their reviews. Meet them. Ask hard questions.
A good agent doesn’t just sell you property; they protect you from costly mistakes.
4. Verify Every Document
Don’t be blinded by glossy brochures and Instagram-ready photos. Documents are everything.
Ask for the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). Check that the land isn’t under government acquisition or in dispute. Hire a surveyor if you must.
In Lagos, people have lost millions buying “ghost properties.” You deserve better.
5. Know the Law
Foreigners can own property in Nigeria, but not everywhere, and not every type of property.
Before signing anything, confirm you’re buying in a zone that permits foreign ownership. This step sounds boring, but it can save you years of legal headaches.
6. Get a Good Lawyer (Non-Negotiable)
You wouldn’t skydive without a parachute. Don’t buy property without a lawyer.
Find someone who understands Nigerian real estate laws and foreign transactions. They’ll walk you through contracts, ensure your rights are protected, and keep you from signing anything shady.
Your lawyer is your shield in this process.
7. Be Patient: Great Things Take Time
This isn’t Amazon Prime; you won’t “check out” today and get your keys tomorrow.
The Nigerian property process can take time. There might be delays. Documents might need extra verification. But patience pays off. When you finally walk into your home, keys in hand, every moment of waiting will be worth it.
Your Path to Success in Lekki: Don’t Miss Out!
By now, you’ve learned the 7 powerful tips for buying property in Nigeria as a foreigner. Here’s a quick recap:
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- Know Your Property Type: Understand exactly what you’re looking for before jumping in.
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- Get Your Finances in Order: Make sure your money is ready to go and your budget is set.
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- Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent: Get someone who knows the market and can guide you safely.
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- Verify the Land Documents: Always double-check the property’s legal status.
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- Understand the Foreign Ownership Laws: Know the rules about owning property in Nigeria as a foreigner.
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- Hire a Lawyer: Protect yourself with expert legal advice.
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- Be Patient, but Stay Informed: Let the process unfold naturally while staying on top of the market.
You now know exactly what it takes to get started on your property journey in Lekki. But here’s the thing: this isn’t a journey you want to take alone or put off for later.
Contact us now to get started. We’re ready to guide you through every step of buying property in Nigeria as a foreigner, so you can feel the same sense of accomplishment that Michelle does every day. Secure your dream home in Lekki today!
