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• Muna Tengi
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A Step-By-Step Guide To Selling Property In Nigeria

Selling property in Nigeria can be a highly rewarding venture, whether you are selling residential homes, commercial buildings, or land. With a growing real estate market and increasing demand for properties, the opportunity to sell property is abundant. However, like any major financial transaction, selling property in Nigeria comes with its own set of complexities and challenges. To successfully sell property, one must understand the legal, financial, and marketing aspects involved.

In this guide, we will take you through the essential steps required to sell property in Nigeria, including preparing the property, legal documentation, valuing your property, marketing strategies, and completing the sale.

1. Understand the Nigerian Property Market

Before you put any property up for sale, it's important to have a good understanding of the Nigerian property market. Research the real estate market in your area to determine the demand and pricing trends. This knowledge will help you set a realistic price for your property and anticipate the level of interest from potential buyers.

Key factors to research include:

• Property values in your location: Research recent sales of similar properties in your neighborhood to get a clear idea of the market price.

• Market demand: Determine whether there is a high demand for the type of property you are selling (e.g., residential, commercial, or land).

• Economic conditions: The overall economy, inflation, and interest rates can influence the property market. During times of economic stability, the property market tends to be more active, and prices may be higher.

• Government policies: Be aware of any new government policies or regulations that may affect the real estate market, such as taxes, development projects, or zoning laws.

2. Prepare Your Property for Sale

Before listing your property for sale, you need to ensure that it is presentable and appealing to potential buyers. This is especially important for residential and commercial properties.

Steps to prepare your property:

• Repair and renovate: Carry out necessary repairs, such as fixing leaks, damaged walls, broken windows, or faulty wiring. A well-maintained property attracts more buyers and can increase its value.

• Declutter and clean: Ensure that the property is clean and free of unnecessary items. Decluttering creates a sense of space, which is attractive to buyers.

• Stage the property: Staging involves arranging the property in a way that makes it more visually appealing. This includes painting, arranging furniture, and creating a welcoming atmosphere. For land, make sure the area is clear of debris, and boundaries are clearly marked.

3. Obtain All Necessary Legal Documents

Selling property in Nigeria involves navigating legal processes that require specific documents to ensure the legitimacy of the transaction. Before you can list or advertise the property for sale, gather all relevant legal documents.

The key documents required for selling property in Nigeria include:

• Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): This document proves that you have legal ownership of the property. It is issued by the government and certifies that you have the right to occupy and use the land or property.

• Deed of Assignment: This document transfers ownership of the property from you (the seller) to the buyer. It must be registered at the appropriate land registry office.

• Survey Plan: The survey plan details the boundaries of your property and serves as proof that the property does not encroach on other properties.

• Building Plan Approval: For properties with structures, it is important to have a building plan approval from the local planning authority. This ensures that the building complies with town planning regulations.

• Governor’s Consent: For properties that have been transferred multiple times, the new buyer will require the governor's consent to finalize the transaction. This is a legal requirement under the Land Use Act.

Without the proper legal documentation, the sale of the property could be invalidated, or you may face legal disputes down the road.

4. Determine the Value of the Property

Valuing your property is a crucial step in the selling process. Setting the right price can make a significant difference in how quickly your property sells. If the price is too high, you may struggle to attract buyers, but if it's too low, you risk losing potential profit.

To accurately value your property, consider hiring a professional real estate valuer. They will assess the condition of your property, the current market trends, and comparable properties in the area to determine a fair market value.

Factors that influence property value include:

• Location: Properties in high-demand areas, such as urban centers or near commercial hubs, typically have higher values.

• Size and layout: Larger properties and those with better layouts and designs tend to have higher market values.

• Condition: The state of the property, including its maintenance and structural integrity, plays a significant role in determining its value.

• Amenities: Proximity to schools, hospitals, markets, and transportation links can boost the value of a property.

5. Market the Property

Effective marketing is key to attracting potential buyers. Depending on the type of property and your target audience, different marketing strategies can be used.

Marketing strategies for selling property in Nigeria:

• Online Listings: One of the most effective ways to market your property is through online real estate platforms such as PropertyPro, Jiji, and Nigeria Property Centre. These platforms allow you to reach a wide audience, both locally and internationally.

• Real Estate Agents: Working with a licensed real estate agent can be beneficial, as they have access to a network of buyers and can handle much of the marketing and negotiation on your behalf.

• Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp can be powerful tools for promoting your property. Post high-quality photos and videos of the property to attract attention.

• Property Shows: Participate in property exhibitions and shows where you can showcase your property to potential buyers.

• Signage: Place “For Sale” signs on the property, especially if it is located in a high-traffic area.

Make sure your marketing materials include clear and professional photographs, detailed descriptions of the property, and contact information.

6. Negotiate with Potential Buyers

Once potential buyers start showing interest in the property, negotiations will begin. It is important to be prepared for this phase, as it determines the final selling price.

Tips for successful negotiation:

• Be realistic: Understand that buyers may try to negotiate a lower price. Be flexible, but also know the lowest price you are willing to accept.

• Highlight the property’s strengths: During negotiations, emphasize the key features of the property that justify its value, such as its location, condition, and amenities.

• Be patient: Don’t rush into accepting the first offer. Take your time to evaluate offers and choose the one that best suits your financial goals.

7. Finalize the Sale and Transfer Ownership

Once you have reached an agreement with the buyer, the next step is to complete the sale. This involves signing the necessary legal documents and transferring ownership of the property.

Steps to finalize the sale:

• Draft the Deed of Assignment: This legal document transfers ownership from you to the buyer. It must be signed by both parties and registered at the land registry.

• Obtain Governor’s Consent: If applicable, you will need to obtain the governor’s consent to make the transaction legally binding.

• Collect payment: Ensure that you receive full payment for the property before handing over any documents. It is advisable to conduct the payment through a secure channel, such as an escrow service.

• Hand over the documents: Once the payment is confirmed, hand over the original copies of the property documents to the buyer.

8. Pay Any Applicable Taxes

After completing the sale, you are required to pay Capital Gains Tax (CGT), which is levied on the profit made from the sale of the property. In Nigeria, CGT is 10% of the capital gain (i.e., the difference between the sale price and the original purchase price).

Ensure that all taxes are paid promptly to avoid legal penalties.

Conclusion

Selling property in Nigeria can be a rewarding process, but it requires careful planning, a good understanding of the market, and compliance with legal requirements. By following the steps outlined in this guide—from preparing your property and gathering legal documents to marketing and closing the sale—you can successfully sell your property in Nigeria.

Remember that patience, professionalism, and attention to detail will ensure a smooth transaction and maximize your profits.