Scam in real estate is real, there have been various stories of individuals or companies being scammed in the real estate industry. But there a ways in which you can avoid them, ways like ;
1. Verify the Ownership of the Land or Property
Before you even think of paying:
Ask for the original title documents (C of O, Deed of Assignment, R of O, Survey Plan, etc.).
Take these documents to the land registry in your state (for instance, Abuja Geographical Information System , AGIS etc) to confirm the real owner’s name and the land status.
Never rely on photocopies or verbal assurances.
2. Deal Directly With the Real Owner or Authorized Agent
Insist on meeting the real owner face-to-face, not just an agent of an agent.
If the person claims to be an agent, demand a signed authorization letter from the owner.
Avoid agents who rush you or create fake urgency like someone else is about to buy it!
3. Engage a Verified Real Estate Company or Lawyer
Always work with a registered real estate company with verifiable office addresses and business registration, e.g OMEC PROPERTIES.
Hire your own property lawyer to review all documents. Never depend on the seller’s lawyer.
A good lawyer will detect forged documents or fake agreements immediately.
4. Confirm the Zoning and Land Use
Some lands are under government acquisition or meant for specific purposes (like agriculture or drainage).
Confirm from the Ministry of Lands or AGIS that your intended use (residential, commercial, etc.) is legal.
5. Never Pay Cash or Transfer to an unverified Personal Account
Make payments only to the company or property owner if verified he or she owns it, or to estate developer’s official business account.
Keep every receipt and written record of payment.
In some cases, Never make full payment before signing legal documents like the Deed of Assignment or Sales Agreement.
6. Physically Inspect the Property
Visit the site multiple times, preferably with an independent surveyor.
Ensure there’s no double allocation or existing occupant claiming the land.
Check the neighborhood landmarks and access roads , scammers often sell land in restricted or disputed areas.
7. Do a Background Check
Search online for the company or developer’s reputation.
Ask for testimonials or past clients you can speak with.
Check CAC (Corporate Affairs Commission) records to confirm if the company is legally registered.
8. Beware of Unrealistic Offers
If the deal sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
Lands or houses sold way below market value are often under dispute, fake, or in a restricted zone.
Be patient and don’t let greed blind your judgment.
In Summary
To escape real estate scams:
Verify. Inspect. Consult. Document. Pay safely.