Selling land in Lagos sounds easy — until you lose money, fall into legal trouble, or watch your buyer walk away at the last minute. Whether you’re flipping land, offloading inherited property, or cashing out, selling land in Lagos the wrong way can be very expensive.
This guide highlights the top 5 mistakes landowners make when selling in Lagos, and how to avoid them to protect your profit, reputation, and peace of mind in 2025.
Mistake #1: Selling Without Proper Title Documents
Many landowners try to sell land without having all the legal documents in place. But in Lagos, no serious buyer will proceed — and if they do, it opens the door to disputes or fraud accusations.
Key Documents You MUST Have:
|
Document |
Why It's Important |
|
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) |
Government-issued proof of ownership |
|
Survey Plan |
Defines the land size, location, and coordinates |
|
Deed of Assignment |
Legally transfers ownership to the buyer |
|
Governor’s Consent |
Legally required for resale under the Land Use Act |
|
Receipt of Payment |
Shows the land has been fully paid for |
Tip: If you don't have these documents, regularize your land first through the Lagos State Lands Bureau.
Mistake #2: Not Involving a Real Estate Lawyer
Skipping a lawyer to “save money” often leads to incomplete documents, invalid agreements, or illegal transfers. A lawyer is your legal shield, ensuring the deal is done properly.
What a Lawyer Helps You Do:
- Draft a valid Deed of Assignment
- Ensure buyer funds are secure and traceable
- Verify the buyer’s identity and intent
- Register the land transfer with Lagos State Government
Tip: Use a lawyer who specializes in real estate law — not just a family friend.
Mistake #3: Accepting Payment Without Proper Agreement
Some sellers collect huge sums without a written, signed agreement — or rely on verbal contracts. This is a legal disaster waiting to happen.
Always Secure:
|
Legal Element |
Why It Matters |
|
Sales Agreement |
Details the payment terms and parties involved |
|
Receipt of Payment |
Legal proof the land was sold |
|
Deed of Assignment |
Transfers the title legally |
|
Witness Signatures |
Adds security and legality to your documents |
Warning: Never collect large sums in cash. Use bank transfers for proof.
Mistake #4: Selling Land Under Family Disputes
If you inherited family land, make sure there are no other claimants. Selling without family consent or legal resolution can lead to court battles, refund demands, or worse — arrest.
Signs of Family Land Trouble:
- No written proof of inheritance
- Disagreements among siblings or relatives
- Ongoing court cases or traditional claims
- Buyer asking for police clearance or community consent
Tip: Get a Letter of Administration or court-granted ownership before selling.
Mistake #5: Underpricing or Overpricing Your Land
Selling too low? You’ll lose money. Too high? You’ll chase buyers away. Many sellers don’t research current land values or understand what factors drive the price.
Price Depends On:
|
Factor |
Impact on Price |
|
Location (Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, Ikorodu, etc.) |
Prime areas attract higher rates |
|
Title (C of O, Gazette, Survey) |
Lands with full documents cost more |
|
Road access / infrastructure |
More value with roads, lights, drainage |
|
Demand in the area |
High-demand areas = higher price |
Tip: Get your land valued by a real estate professional before setting a price.
Bonus: Legal Checklist for Selling Land in Lagos
|
Task |
Status |
|
Original land documents ready |
✔️ |
|
Verified buyer identity |
✔️ |
|
Real estate lawyer engaged |
✔️ |
|
Sale agreement and receipt drafted |
✔️ |
|
Deed of Assignment prepared and signed |
✔️ |
|
Governor’s Consent application filed |
✔️ |
Conclusion
Selling land in Lagos can be a profitable and smart move — if you avoid the traps. Don’t try to cut corners or rely on assumptions. Handle your sale like a business deal, with complete documentation, legal support, and smart pricing.
Make your next land sale smooth, legal, and lucrative.
