Begin with a written brief
State the location, budget, intended use, preferred title, timeline and whether you will attend personally. A precise brief prevents pressure-driven decisions and helps the team compare like-for-like opportunities.
Identify the seller and marketing authority
Confirm who owns or controls the land, who is marketing it and what authority each person has. An agent, family representative or caretaker is not automatically the owner or authorised seller.
Inspect the exact land
A physical inspection should confirm the location, boundaries, access, surrounding development, visible possession and whether the land matches the description. Remote buyers should use an accountable representative when necessary.
Verify title and survey information
Use the appropriate land registry, survey and professional verification channels. A document image, receipt or allocation paper should not be treated as conclusive proof without checking what it actually establishes.
Check for competing claims and restrictions
Ask about family claims, government acquisition, encumbrances, litigation, planning restrictions, existing interests and community issues. Unresolved issues should be recorded before any commitment.
Control payment and documentation
Pay only through the agreed transaction process, after the relevant checks and written terms are clear. Confirm receipt independently and retain a complete evidence file.
Use the right professional scope
Land acquisition may require legal, survey, planning, valuation or other specialist work. The required scope depends on the land and transaction; no online guide replaces transaction-specific advice.
Turn the guide into a structured request.
Tell us the actual outcome you need in Nigeria and the request can be routed appropriately.