House hunting in Lagos is not for the faint-hearted. The process can be confusing, overwhelming, and filled with traps that could drain your finances if you are not well-prepared. From unreliable agents to hidden structural defects and properties sitting in flood-prone zones, one wrong move can cost you millions. To help you navigate the chaos, here are the biggest mistakes Lagosians make when searching for a home and how to avoid them.
1. Relying Too Much on Real Estate Agents
Agents can be helpful, but total dependence on them is one of the fastest ways to get scammed or misled.
Over-reliance on one agent
Many Lagos agents only show properties that benefit them, not you. Some filter your options, misrepresent key details, or redirect you to troubled properties simply because they want a commission. Always consult multiple agents and conduct your own research.
Blindly trusting verbal claims
When an agent says, “This area appreciates quickly,” or “People are rushing this property,” take it with a grain of salt. Verify every claim on your own through independent research and trusted professionals.
Making cash or unofficial payments
Cash transfers and informal agreements leave you with no traceable proof. Once your money goes missing, you may have no legal backing to recover it. Insist on documented transactions, receipts, and official channels.
Falling for pressure tactics
Many agents thrive on urgency, “Someone is coming with the money tomorrow!” Genuine agents give you time to think, inspect, and seek legal counsel. Don’t be bullied into making hasty decisions.
2. Skipping Proper Property Inspections
A major mistake many buyers make is ignoring professional inspections to save a few naira. That “little savings” often becomes a huge financial burden later.
Not checking structural integrity
Cracks in walls, sagging floors, damp patches, and patched roofs are red flags. They can indicate major structural problems that will cost millions to fix.
Overlooking plumbing and electrical systems
Test everything: water pressure, drainage, taps, sockets, wiring, and switches. Lagos properties often hide serious plumbing issues or outdated electrical installations that pose fire risks.
Relying on photos or virtual tours
Pictures lie, filters, angles, and cropping hide the true condition of a property. A physical inspection or a professional third-party inspection is a must.
3. Ignoring Flood Risks
Flooding is a harsh reality in Lagos, and buying a home without checking the area’s flood history can turn your dream home into a disaster.
Not researching the flood history
Talk to residents. They’ll tell you the truth about how many times the area has flooded in the last few years.
Ignoring drainage and topography
Visit the neighborhood after rainfall or during the rainy season. Check how fast water drains, the layout of the streets, and whether the property is situated in a low, water-catching area.
Not using flood-mapping tools
Platforms like Lagos Floodmap can show you flood-prone zones instantly. A few minutes of research could save you years of stress.
4. Skipping Legal Due Diligence
This is perhaps the most dangerous mistake.
Not involving a qualified property lawyer
Only a real estate lawyer can verify your documents at the proper government offices. They will confirm if:
- The land is government-acquired,
- The documents are forged,
- The property has a pending dispute, or
- The seller is not the rightful owner.
Never rely solely on agents or seller claims, verify everything legally.
5. Making Emotional Decisions
It’s easy to fall in love with a beautiful apartment, especially one with modern finishing or waterfront views. But emotional decisions lead to ignored red flags and overpayment.
Set your criteria and stick to them
Know your budget, your must-haves, and your deal-breakers. Don’t let emotions push you into debt or risky purchases.
6. Underestimating the Total Cost
Many Lagosians focus only on the price of the property and forget the hidden charges.
Budget for all additional costs:
- Agency fees
- Legal fees
- Service charges
- Documentation
- Taxes
- Potential renovations
Without proper budgeting, your new home could quickly become a financial burden.
Bottom Line
House hunting in Lagos doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By avoiding these common mistakes, over-relying on agents, skipping inspections, ignoring flood risks, neglecting legal checks, and making emotional decisions, you can protect your money and find a home that truly suits your needs.
A smart buyer is an informed buyer. Take your time, do your due diligence, and safeguard your investment.
