Current Cost Of Buying And Selling Land In Calabar, Cross River State (Updated Prices, 2025)
Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, is one of Nigeria’s most serene and historically rich cities. Known for its tourism, hospitality, and business-friendly environment, Calabar attracts real estate investors, developers, and individuals looking to own land in a well-planned city.
If you're considering buying or selling land in Calabar, understanding the current prices, best locations, legal processes, and factors affecting land value is crucial. This guide provides updated land prices in 2025, market trends, and expert insights to help you make informed decisions.
Overview of the Real Estate Market in Calabar
Calabar’s real estate market has grown significantly due to:
- Government investments in infrastructure and tourism.
- Increasing demand for residential and commercial properties.
- Expansion of industries, businesses, and educational institutions.
Land in Calabar is relatively affordable compared to Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, but prices vary based on location, land use, and documentation status.
Current Land Prices in Calabar (2025 Update)
1. Land Prices in Prime and Urban Areas
These are well-developed areas with good roads, amenities, and commercial activities.
- Marian Road, State Housing Estate, and Satellite Town
- Residential land (500sqm – 1,000sqm): ₦15 million – ₦60 million.
- Commercial land (1,000sqm – 2,000sqm): ₦40 million – ₦120 million.
- These areas are ideal for high-end homes, offices, and retail businesses.
- Etta Agbor, Federal Housing Estate, and MCC Road
- Residential land: ₦8 million – ₦35 million.
- Commercial land: ₦25 million – ₦80 million.
- Great for middle-class housing and small businesses.
2. Land Prices in Developing Areas
These areas are growing in infrastructure and investment potential, offering affordable options.
- Ikot Effanga, 8 Miles, and Akpabuyo
- Residential land: ₦2.5 million – ₦12 million.
- Commercial land: ₦10 million – ₦40 million.
- Suitable for first-time home buyers and investors looking for future appreciation.
3. Land Prices in Suburban and Agricultural Areas
For those interested in farming, industrial projects, or long-term investment, these areas offer lower land costs.
- Odukpani, Adiabo, and Tinapa Environs
- Residential land: ₦1.5 million – ₦8 million.
- Commercial land: ₦5 million – ₦20 million.
- Farmland (Per Hectare): ₦500,000 – ₦3 million.
- Ideal for large-scale agriculture and future urban expansion.
Factors Influencing Land Prices in Calabar
Several factors determine land prices in Calabar, including:
1. Location and Infrastructure
- Well-developed areas with tarred roads, water, and electricity are more expensive.
- Outskirts and developing zones offer lower prices but may require infrastructure improvements.
2. Proximity to Key Landmarks
- Land near universities, markets, government offices, and commercial centers has higher value.
- Proximity to Tinapa Business Resort, Calabar Free Trade Zone, and seaports increases land prices.
3. Security and Government Policies
- Areas with low crime rates and stable government policies attract more investment.
- Government zoning regulations and future development plans can drive up land value.
4. Legal Documentation and Title
- Land with a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Deed of Assignment, or Registered Survey is more expensive but safer to buy.
- Undocumented land is cheaper but carries higher risks of disputes.
5. Market Demand and Economic Trends
- As more people move to Calabar for business, education, and tourism, land demand increases.
- Inflation and real estate market trends influence pricing.
Buying and Selling Land in Calabar: Step-by-Step Guide
How to Buy Land in Calabar
- Set Your Budget and Purpose
- Decide whether the land is for residential, commercial, or agricultural use.
- Select a Suitable Location
- Consider infrastructure, security, and future growth potential.
- Verify Land Ownership and Documentation
- Ensure the land has a valid title (C of O, Deed of Assignment, or Survey Plan).
- Check with the Cross River State Lands Bureau for any government claims.
- Conduct a Physical Inspection
- Visit the land to verify its size, boundaries, and access roads.
- Negotiate and Make Payment Securely
- Work with a real estate agent or lawyer to handle transactions legally.
- Obtain Legal Documents and Register Ownership
- Sign a Deed of Assignment and process Governor’s Consent.
- Register the land with the Cross River State Land Registry.
How to Sell Land in Calabar
- Determine the Market Price
- Compare similar land sales to set a competitive price.
- Ensure Proper Documentation
- A land title like C of O or Registered Deed increases buyer confidence.
- Advertise the Land
- Use real estate agents, property websites, and social media.
- Negotiate and Finalize the Sale
- Draft a legal agreement and receive payments through a secure transaction.
- Transfer Ownership and Register the Sale
- Hand over a Deed of Assignment to the buyer and process land registration.
FAQs About Buying and Selling Land in Calabar
1. Is land in Calabar a good investment?
Yes! Growing tourism, business expansion, and government infrastructure projects make land in Calabar a profitable long-term investment.
2. What is the cheapest area to buy land in Calabar?
- Odukpani, Adiabo, and 8 Miles offer the most affordable residential and agricultural land.
3. How can I avoid land fraud?
- Verify land ownership and legal documents before making payments.
- Work with a real estate lawyer or government land agency.
4. What documents do I need to buy land in Calabar?
- Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
- Deed of Assignment
- Survey Plan
- Governor’s Consent (if required)
5. Can I buy land in Calabar without a C of O?
Yes, but ensure it has at least a Deed of Assignment and is verifiable at the Land Registry.
6. Can foreigners buy land in Calabar?
Yes, but they must get government approval and follow legal processes.
Final Thoughts
Calabar offers a thriving real estate market with affordable and high-value land options. Whether you're buying for residential, commercial, or agricultural purposes, it’s essential to verify land titles, choose strategic locations, and follow legal procedures.
With continuous urban development, tourism growth, and business-friendly policies, investing in land in Calabar in 2025 remains a smart and profitable decision.
