Buying a home in Nigeria—or anywhere in Africa—is a big deal. It’s more than a roof over your head; it’s your legacy, your security, your “I’ve made it” moment. But this dream can become a costly nightmare if you're not prepared.

Here are five expensive traps first-time buyers fall into—and how you can sidestep them like a pro:

1. Skipping Mortgage Pre-Approval

Too many Nigerians go house-hunting first and start chasing financing later. It should be the other way around. Without a clear idea of your budget (and what a bank is willing to give you), you're just window-shopping. Worse still, you could lose a property to someone more prepared.

Fix: Talk to your bank or a mortgage expert before searching. Get pre-approved. Know your range.

2. Ignoring Additional Costs

If you think it’s just “price = naira and that’s it,” think again. Legal fees, agency commission, survey fees, Governor’s consent, and all those fine-print extras can quickly add up to 10–15% more.

Fix: Always budget for the hidden costs. Ask your agent for a full breakdown upfront.

3. Falling in Love With the Paint Job

A fresh coat of paint and shiny tiles can distract you from structural issues, poor drainage, or unapproved documents. Don’t be that person who buys beauty and inherits a burden.

Fix: Always inspect thoroughly. Go with a trusted builder or property inspector if you’re unsure.

4. Overlooking the Location Vibes

You love the house—but do you love the neighborhood at 10 PM when the power's out and there's no security? Or when it rains and the road disappears?

Fix: Visit the area multiple times. Ask residents about security, water, traffic, and flooding.

5. Not Verifying the Title Documents

In Nigeria, land scams are real—and rampant. If the title isn’t clean, you could lose everything after payment.

Fix: Engage a real estate lawyer to verify land titles and conduct due diligence. If it sounds shady, walk away.

Final Word:
Real estate in Nigeria is booming, but so are the traps. Don’t rush. Do your research. Ask questions. And when in doubt—get expert help. A smart first home is better than a flashy mistake.

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