- Distance makes property fraud easier, so verification matters even more.
- Use your own lawyer and surveyor on the ground, not the seller's recommendations.
- Pay only to a verified company account and never rely on photos or videos alone.
The Short Answer
Many Nigerians abroad want to build or buy at home, and distance is exactly what dishonest sellers and agents take advantage of. The safe approach is to slow down, verify every document through your own lawyer and surveyor, pay only into official company or verified accounts and rely on records, not on photos or promises. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
Why Diaspora Buyers Are Targeted
Buyers abroad cannot easily visit the site, often send money in large amounts and may trust family or friends too quickly. Common tricks include fake documents, the same plot sold to several people, plots under government acquisition, inflated prices, fake photos of finished buildings and agents who disappear after payment.
Step-by-Step Safe Process
1. Set a budget and goal. Decide whether you want land, a finished house or a rental investment.
2. Hire your own professionals. Choose a lawyer and a licensed surveyor yourself, not those recommended by the seller.
3. Verify the land and the seller. Follow our guides on verifying land documents and land title documents.
4. Inspect the site through your own representative, with a video call and dated photos, and compare with the survey plan.
5. Check the developer and contract for new builds, using our off-plan scam guide.
6. Pay safely into a verified company account against a written agreement, and keep every receipt.
7. Register your interest and get your documents properly recorded.
Be Careful With Power of Attorney
If you give someone power of attorney to act for you, make sure it is prepared and registered properly by your lawyer, limited to what is needed and given only to someone you trust. A broad power of attorney can be misused.
Sending Money Abroad Safely
| Tip | Why |
|---|---|
| Pay the seller or company directly, not a third person | Reduces the chance of diverted payments |
| Match the account name to the contract | Prevents payments to unknown accounts |
| Pay in stages tied to progress or documents | Limits your risk |
| Keep transfer receipts and messages | Needed if there is a dispute |
| Compare exchange rates and fees | Saves money on large transfers |
See our guide on international payments and exchange rates and compare multi-currency options.
After You Buy
Visit when you can, fence or mark your land, build with a registered professional using our house-building guide and consider a trusted property manager to look after it. Insure and inspect regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy without visiting? Yes, but use trusted professionals and verify everything. Do not rely on photos or videos alone.
Should I send money to a family member to buy for me? Be careful. Use written agreements and verify the transaction, since mistakes and disputes happen even with good intentions.
How do I know the developer is real? Check company registration, visit past projects, speak to buyers and have your lawyer review the contract.
What if I already paid someone suspicious? Stop sending money, keep records, contact your bank and report to the police.
Action Checklist
- Set your budget and decide what you want to buy
- Hire your own lawyer and surveyor
- Verify the seller, title documents and survey plan
- Have someone you trust inspect the site and send dated proof
- Pay only to a verified account against a written agreement
- Limit any power of attorney and have it prepared properly
- Register your interest and keep every document
