ilemi

Navigating Nigeria’s real estate market can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers or renters. With thousands of listings available online, it’s not always easy to distinguish a genuine opportunity from one that could lead to regret, or worse, financial loss.

At ilemi, we believe that a transparent, trustworthy property market should be the standard, not the exception. That’s why we manually verify every real estate agent, vet every listing, and offer a fully managed service for Nigerians in the diaspora backed by UK legal protections. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, this guide will help you identify what makes a property deal truly worth your time.

1. Verify the Seller or Agent’s Credentials

Before considering any property, ensure the seller or agent is registered with a recognised professional body and that their credentials are current. On ilemi, this verification is already done for you. Every agent on our platform has undergone a strict identity and business background check.

Tip: Avoid engaging with unverified individuals who advertise on social media or unofficial channels. Always ask for formal identification, a registered business address, and a traceable business number.

2. Confirm Legal Ownership and Title Documentation

A promising property deal is only as good as its documentation. You should never move forward without seeing and confirming key documents including:

Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Deed of Assignment
Governor’s Consent
Survey Plans

At ilemi, all properties listed for sale or rent go through a thorough vetting process to confirm ownership, documentation status, and any potential considerations.

3. Compare Market Value and Location Trends

A price that seems too low for the area might not be a bargain, it might be a red flag. Use trusted platforms like ilemi to compare similar properties in the same neighbourhood. Pay attention to:

Infrastructure development (e.g., roads, electricity)
Security and flood risk
Proximity to schools, transport, and amenities
Neighbourhood reputation

We curate location insights and only accept listings that are priced within reasonable market value to help you avoid misleading deals.

4. Assess Property Condition — Beyond the Surface

Pictures can be edited. Ensure you (or a trusted representative) view the property in person to assess:

Structural integrity (walls, roofing, plumbing)
Signs of damp or water damage
Quality of finishes and fittings
Age of the building and renovation history

For diaspora clients, ilemi’s bespoke service handles this entire process, including independent inspections, photo and video walkthroughs, and detailed reports.

5. Understand Total Cost of Ownership or Renting

A good deal should include transparency on:

Hidden fees (agency, legal, service charges)
Renovation or fit-out costs
Long-term value (for buyers)
Lease conditions (for renters)

Our platform ensures that listings disclose all relevant financial details upfront. No surprises, no fine print.

6. Only Transact Through Secure and Traceable Channels

Fraud often occurs during the transaction phase. Avoid making payments directly to individuals, especially in cash.

Ready to Move?

A good real estate deal is about more than price ; it’s about peace of mind. At ilemi, we’re building a future where trust is built-in, not just promised. Whether you're based in Nigeria or abroad, every step of your property journey, from listing to closing, is protected by real people doing real checks.

Looking for your next home or investment?

Explore verified properties on ilemi and move forward with confidence. Don't just hope its real: Know it.