When it comes to real estate in Nigeria, excitement and fear often go hand in hand. While many people want to buy land or property, they are afraid of being scammed. Fortunately, genuine real estate companies always show clear signs. Here are 10 ways to confirm a company is truly legitimate before paying a kobo:
- Verify Their CAC Registration
A legitimate real estate company must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). If they hesitate to provide their CAC certificate or if their business name doesn’t match their documents, it’s a red flag. Registration is a key sign of accountability.
- Visit Their Physical Office
Even digital companies should have a walk-in office. If a company keeps giving excuses or avoids showing you their office, be careful. A genuine brand has nothing to hide.
- Confirm Their Team and Management
Real companies have real people, staff members, founders, managers, who can be verified online. Check their website, social media profiles, and professional platforms like LinkedIn to see if their team actually exists.
- Check Their Online Presence
A legitimate company is not invisible online. They should have an active website, social channels, business listings, and consistent brand content. Scammers operate quietly to avoid being tracked.
- Request Property Documentation
Genuine companies provide land documents, survey, excision, gazette, C of O, or deed of assignment, before asking for payment. If the document is “still processing” but they want your money urgently, run.
- Insist on Site Inspection
Any real estate company that refuses inspection or keeps delaying it is hiding something. Genuine companies gladly take you to the site to inspect the land physically and confirm all claims.
- Look for Transparency
From pricing to hidden charges to development fees, real companies explain everything clearly. Scammers avoid details and only rush you with “promo ends today” pressure tactics.
- Check Their Track Record
Have they delivered before? Do they have previous estates? Real clients? Allocations? Testimonials? Genuine real estate companies proudly show their past achievements.
- Never Pay Into Personal Accounts
A trustworthy company will offer only a corporate account that matches their business name. Any request to pay into a personal account is a firm red flag.
- Observe Their Consistency
Legitimate companies communicate professionally, follow up responsibly, and keep proper records. Scammers are inconsistent and disorganized, today one story, tomorrow a different one.
By following these ten checks, you will protect yourself from stress, financial loss, and regret. Please, always verify before you pay, your peace of mind is honestly worth it.
