Lagos Real Estate: What Buyers Need to Know in 2025

Buying property in Lagos is one of the most significant financial decisions you will ever make. Whether you are a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, the Lagos property market has its own rules, risks, and rewards that are very different from other cities in Nigeria.

1. Understand the Title Documents

Before you pay a single naira, verify the property title. The main types of title documents in Lagos are:

• Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): The strongest title you can have. Issued by the Lagos State government.
• Governor's Consent: Required whenever a C of O property changes hands.
• Deed of Assignment: Transfers ownership from seller to buyer.
• Right of Occupancy (R of O): Common in some inland areas.
• Gazette: Found in some parts of Lekki and Ikoyi.

Always hire a qualified property lawyer to conduct a title search at the Lagos State Land Registry before paying any deposit.

2. Verify the Survey Plan

A registered survey plan confirms the exact boundaries of the land. Ensure the survey coordinates match what is on the ground. Check with the Office of the Surveyor General of Lagos State (OSGOF) to confirm the survey has been filed.

3. Confirm There Are No Encumbrances

An encumbrance is a claim on the property — such as a mortgage, court order, or inheritance dispute. Your lawyer's title search should reveal these. Do not buy a property with outstanding encumbrances without resolving them first.

4. Inspect the Property Thoroughly

Never buy a property you have not physically inspected. Check for signs of structural problems, damp walls, poor drainage, and electrical faults. If possible, hire a qualified building surveyor to carry out a formal inspection.

5. Use a Registered Estate Agent

In Lagos, only use agents registered with the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) or the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN). Verify their credentials before handing over any money.

6. Factor in All Costs

The asking price is just the starting point. Budget for:

• Legal fees (typically 2–5% of purchase price)
• Agency fees (typically 5–10%)
• Survey and valuation fees
• Governor's Consent or C of O perfection fees
• Lagos State stamp duty
• Service charge and ground rent (for estate properties)

7. Work with a Trusted Agency

At APEXIFY Real Estate Limited, we guide buyers through every step of the purchase process — from property search and inspection to title verification and documentation. Contact us today to find your perfect Lagos property.