Buying Property in Nigeria From Abroad: How to Protect Yourself

Buying property at home while living abroad is common, and so are the scams that target it. A few safeguards protect your money and your title.

Verify title before you pay

Have a lawyer search the land registry, confirm the seller's identity and inspect the property before any payment is made. Ask for a written report.

Use a power of attorney carefully

If someone will act for you in Nigeria, give them a clear, limited power of attorney and make sure it is properly executed and, where required, registered.

Control the payments

Pay through traceable channels and avoid paying agents or relatives in cash. Release funds only against signed documents.

If a deal is urgent, cheap and the seller resists a search, walk away.