Top 20 Questions to Ask Before Buying Land in Nigeria (2026 Ultimate Checklist)

Buying land is one of the smartest investments you can make—but only if you buy wisely. Every year, thousands of Nigerians lose money because they fail to ask the right questions before making payment.

Whether you're buying land to build your dream home, start a commercial project, or invest for future appreciation, asking the right questions can protect your money and give you confidence.

This guide from LA'REALEZA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED highlights the 20 essential questions every land buyer should ask before purchasing land anywhere in Nigeria.

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1. Who Is the Actual Owner of the Land?

Confirm whether the seller is the rightful owner or has legal authority to sell.

2. Are the Land Documents Genuine?

Request copies of all available documents and verify them with the relevant authorities.

3. Does the Land Have a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)?

A C of O provides strong evidence of legal occupancy rights.

4. Is There a Registered Survey Plan?

A registered survey clearly defines the property's location and boundaries.

5. Has the Government Acquired This Land?

Always verify whether the land falls under government acquisition.

6. Is the Land Free From Legal Disputes?

Ask if there are pending court cases or ownership conflicts.

7. What Type of Title Does the Property Have?

• Certificate of Occupancy
• Gazette
• Governor's Consent
• Deed of Assignment
• Excision

8. What Is the Exact Plot Size?

Ensure the dimensions correspond with the survey plan.

9. Are There Existing Encumbrances?

Confirm there are no mortgages, liens, or legal restrictions.

10. Is the Land Accessible?

Inspect road access during both rainy and dry seasons.

11. What Infrastructure Exists?

• Roads
• Electricity
• Drainage
• Water Supply
• Security

12. What Is Happening Around the Area?

Future infrastructure projects often determine future land value.

13. Is the Community Peaceful?

Talk to nearby residents before making payment.

14. Are There Hidden Charges?

Ask about documentation fees, survey fees, development levy, legal fees, and agency commissions.

15. Can I Conduct My Own Verification?

A trustworthy seller welcomes independent verification.

16. Is Physical Inspection Allowed?

Never buy land without visiting the site.

17. Who Prepared the Survey?

Confirm that a licensed surveyor prepared the document.

18. Is Immediate Allocation Available?

Know when you'll receive your plot after payment.

19. Are Flexible Payment Plans Available?

Many reputable developers now offer installment payment options.

20. Why Is This Land a Good Investment?

Evaluate:

• Location
• Infrastructure
• Economic Growth
• Population Expansion
• Future Development

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Red Flags You Should Never Ignore

• Pressure to pay immediately
• No survey plan
• No inspection allowed
• Unclear ownership
• Extremely cheap pricing
• Missing documentation
• Conflicting ownership stories

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The LA'REALEZA Buying Process

1. Choose your preferred estate.
2. Book a site inspection.
3. Review all documentation.
4. Conduct due diligence.
5. Complete payment securely.
6. Receive allocation.
7. Begin development or hold as an investment.

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Why Buy Through LA'REALEZA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED?

• Professionally planned estates
• Verified land documentation
• Transparent transactions
• Flexible payment options
• Professional customer support
• Secure investment opportunities
• Long-term value appreciation

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Final Thoughts

The quality of the questions you ask before buying land often determines the quality of your investment. Smart buyers verify ownership, inspect the property, understand the documents, and work only with reputable real estate companies.

At LA'REALEZA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED, we are committed to helping individuals, families, and investors purchase land with confidence through transparency, professional guidance, and verified real estate opportunities.