Building a house in Nigeria starts with choosing the right land.
The land you buy determines the success of your project in terms of cost, safety, legal security, and long-term value.
Many people fall victim to land scams, legal disputes, and poor locations because they fail to conduct proper research.
In this guide, Bullionrise consult will explore the key factors to consider when choosing the best land to build a house in Nigeria.
See related – What are the requirements for building approval?
How do I choose the best land to build a house?
1. Consider the Location
Location is the most important factor when buying land. It affects the cost of the land, convenience, and potential appreciation.
• Proximity to Work and Business Areas – If you work in the city, choose land in a location with good road access.
• Availability of Infrastructure – Check for roads, electricity, water supply, and drainage systems.
• Security and Safety – Avoid locations prone to crime, flooding, or communal conflicts.
• Future Development Plans – Consider areas with planned government or private-sector developments that can increase the value of your property.
2. Check the Land Title and Legal Documents
Many people have lost their money to fraudulent land transactions. To avoid this, ensure the land has proper legal documents.
- Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) – Confirms government recognition of ownership.
- Deed of Assignment – Transfers ownership from the seller to the buyer.
- Survey Plan – Shows the exact location and size of the land.
- Governor’s Consent – Required when transferring land with an existing C of O.
- Excision and Gazette – If the land was previously under government control, ensure it has been excised and gazetted.
Before purchasing, conduct a land verification search at the land registry in the state where the land is located.
See also – C of O : meaning and how to get it in Nigeria
See also – Deed of Assignment : meaning and it’s importance
3. Check the Soil and Land Condition
The type of soil affects construction costs and the durability of your building.
- Firm and Dry Land – Avoid swampy or waterlogged areas unless you are prepared to spend extra on foundation work.
- Rocky Terrain – May require expensive excavation but can provide a strong foundation.
- Erosion-Prone Areas – Check if the area is at risk of erosion, which could damage your house over time.
Consult a land surveyor or civil engineer before purchasing.
4. Verify the Seller or Real Estate Company
- If buying from an individual, ensure they have legal rights to sell the land.
- If buying from a real estate company, research their reputation and past projects.
- Avoid land agents who may engage in fraudulent practices.
5. Confirm Land Use and Zoning Laws
The Nigerian government regulates land use to prevent illegal developments.
Ensure the land is designated for residential purposes and not for commercial or agricultural use.
Visit the town planning office in the state to confirm zoning regulations before buying.
6. Accessibility and Transportation
Consider how easy it is to access the land. Check for:
- Good road networks (avoid areas with poor roads)
- Availability of public transport
- Traffic congestion (in major cities like Lagos and Abuja)
If an area is difficult to access, future resale value may be low.
7. Community and Neighborhood
- Check if the area has friendly and peaceful residents.
- Avoid lands with communal disputes or family inheritance issues.
- Visit the area at different times of the day to observe security and activities.
8. Consider Your Budget and Hidden Costs
Beyond the cost of land, factor in:
- Survey and legal fees
- Government registration fees
- Development levies (if buying from a real estate company or estate developers)
See also – Buying vs Building house in Nigeria | pros and cons
Conclusion
Choosing the right land to build a house in Nigeria requires careful research, legal verification, and planning.
Focus on location, legal documents, soil condition, accessibility, and zoning laws to ensure a safe and valuable investment.
Always consult a lawyer, surveyor, and real estate expert before making a final decision.
Would you like assistance with verifying land documents or selecting a suitable location in a specific state?
Frequently asked questions
What factors should I consider when selecting land for construction?
Key factors include the location, accessibility, and proximity to essential services such as schools, hospitals, and markets.
The land’s size, zoning regulations, and the potential for future development in the area should also be evaluated.
Additionally, ensure the land has good drainage and is free from environmental hazards like flooding.
These factors collectively ensure the land is suitable for building and aligns with your long-term goals.
How can I determine if the land is free from government acquisition?
You can check the land’s status by obtaining a charting report from the state’s surveyor general or land registry office.
This report shows whether the land is under government acquisition, committed, or ratifiable.
Hiring a qualified surveyor or real estate lawyer can also help confirm the land’s legal status.
This step is crucial to avoid disputes or potential confiscation by the government.
What is the importance of location when choosing land for a house?
The location impacts the property’s value, convenience, and accessibility to essential amenities.
A well-located land close to urban centers, public transport, or major roads often has higher resale value.
Additionally, the safety and security of the area are important factors to consider.
A good location not only enhances your quality of life but also makes your investment worthwhile.
How do I assess the soil quality and topography of the land?
Conduct a soil test to determine if the land’s soil is stable and suitable for building, especially for heavy structures.
The topography should also be examined to ensure it supports good drainage and is not prone to erosion or flooding.
Sloping land may require additional engineering or construction costs, so it’s essential to consider this.
Hiring a surveyor or structural engineer can provide expert evaluation and recommendations.
