A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Your First Home in Nigeria

Step 1: Define Your Homeownership Goals 🏡

Before you even start house-hunting, ask yourself:

✅ Why do I want to buy a home? (For living? Investment? Rental income?)
✅ Where do I want to live? (Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, or a growing suburb?)
✅ What’s my budget? (Be realistic. Factor in hidden costs.)

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re buying a home for investment, think beyond just “what looks nice.” Focus on locations with high demand and appreciation potential.

Step 2: Check Your Financial Readiness 💰

Let’s talk money. A home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make, so you need to be financially prepared.

What You’ll Need:
🔹 Down Payment: Typically 20-30% of the house price.
🔹 Legal & Agency Fees: Can add 5-10% to your cost.
🔹 Documentation Costs: Deed of assignment, survey plan, and more.
🔹 Hidden Expenses: Renovations, moving costs, and service charges.

💡 Pro Tip: Before you even go house-hunting, make sure you have at least 50% of your home budget saved up.

Step 3: Start House Hunting

Now, it’s time to search for the perfect home! But where do you start?

Where to Look:
There are many ways to find a home, but the key is to focus on trustworthy sources. Some people find homes through online listings, while others go through real estate agents, developers, or even word of mouth.

However, with so many options, it’s easy to fall into the wrong hands. That’s why working with a reputable real estate company like KDL Properties can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Our team ensures that every home we list has genuine documents, fair pricing, and zero hidden risks.

What to Check When Inspecting a House:
✅ Location & Accessibility – Is it flood-free? Close to your workplace, schools, and essential services?
✅ Building Quality – Any cracks, plumbing issues, or poor drainage?
✅ Legal Documents – Always ask for proof of ownership and verify the land title before making a decision.

💡 Pro Tip: Never rush into a purchase! If something feels too good to be true, take a step back and do your due diligence.

Step 4: Verify the Property Documents 📜

This is where most buyers get scammed—so pay attention!

Important Documents to Check:
📌 Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) – Confirms ownership.
📌 Governor’s Consent – Needed if the land has changed hands.
📌 Deed of Assignment – Shows transfer of ownership.
📌 Survey Plan – Confirms the land is legally allocated.

💡 Pro Tip: Hire a property lawyer to double-check everything before making payment.

Step 5: Make Payment & Finalize Ownership 💳

Once the documents check out, it’s time to seal the deal.

How to Make a Safe Payment:
🔹 Never pay in cash. Use a bank transfer for traceability.
🔹 Make payment to the property owner’s official account.
🔹 Request a receipt & sign all necessary agreements.

💡 Pro Tip: After payment, immediately start the process of getting your name on the title documents.

Step 6: Move In & Secure Your Home

Congratulations! You’re now a homeowner! 🎉

What’s Next?
✔️ Change the locks and secure the home.
✔️ Set up basic utilities (electricity, water, internet).
✔️ Plan for renovations or decor changes.
✔️ If it’s an investment property, list it for rent or Airbnb.