Land scams are a serious issue in Lagos, including Badagry. Every year, many land buyers fall victim and lose their money to fraudulent land agents and real estate companies. These scams come in different forms, such as fake documents, double allocation of land, and Omonile issues. But the good thing is that you can easily avoid these land scams in Badagry if you follow what we will teach you
Over 70% of land cases in courts involve fraudulent land transactions. Lagos, the most bustling city in Nigeria is one of the hotspots. Everyone wants a piece of Lagos. With the rising demand for affordable lands, areas like Badagry are in high demand.
These scams can cost victims millions of naira. This article will guide you on how to avoid land scams in Badagry.
Why Land Scams are Common in Badagry
Land scams are a big problem in Badagry. One of the major reasons is the rapid development going on. The prices of land are also affordable compared to other parts of Lagos. Many people see Badagry as a good place to invest in land.
This high interest has created opportunities for land scammers. They take advantage of the high demand and know buyers need something affordable. Some of these land scammers sell lands they don’t own, forge documents, or sell the same land to many people.
Understanding how land scams work is very important if you want to buy land in Badagry. It helps you know what to look out for and how to avoid being a victim.
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Here are some reasons land scams are so common in Badagry:
- Rapid development: Badagry is developing at a fast rate with new infrastructure and opportunities coming in. This has led to an increase in land scams.
- Poor land records: Outdated and incomplete documents make it easy for scammers to forge land documents.
- Unawareness: Many land buyers, especially first-timers, don’t know how to verify land titles. This leaves them vulnerable to land scammers.
- High demand for affordable lands: Everyone loves a good buy. These land scammers exploit your eagerness to buy good land at lower prices.
Red Flags to Watch Out For When Buying in Badagry
Buying land can be exciting. It also comes with some risk if you don’t know what to watch out for. Scammers are clever and use different tactics to exploit buyers. Here are major red flags to watch out for when buying land in Badagry:
Unverified Land titles
One of the most common land scams involves fake or incomplete land documents. Scammers often forget documents and sell lands with them. The documents might appear real but they aren’t properly registered.
When buying land, you need to insist on verifying the title. Also, check for key documents like a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Deed of Assignment, and approved survey plans. If the seller avoids answering questions about the paperwork, it’s a huge red flag.
Unregistered Companies
Many scams are carried out by real estate companies that are not registered. They don’t have a physical office, often refuse to issue receipts, and get angry when asked clarifying questions.
These companies also don’t have any notable reviews or testimonials from past clients. Before making a payment, do some background checks.
Pressure to Make Payments
Scammers often urge buyers to pay quickly. They create a false sense of urgency to cover their plot. They might say things like, several buyers are interested in the land, this price is only for today, etc. This tactic prevents you from doing proper verification and consulting with professionals.
Awoof Offers
If a land sounds too good to be true, then it likely is. These scammers offer ridiculous prices that are way below market value. For example, land that is valued at #2 million might be offered for N600,000. This might either mean the land is in dispute or is illegally sold. Do your investigation before going ahead with payment.
Steps to Avoid Land Scams in Badagry
Land Scams are common in Badagry. You can protect yourself by following these simple steps:
- Investigate properly: Conduct proper research before buying any land. Even if you know the person selling the land. Ask appropriate questions and make sure you receive the right answers. Verify the seller’s name or the company’s registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). You can also visit the Lagos State Lands Bureau to confirm the legal status and ownership of the land.
- Visit the land: Never buy land without visiting the site. If you’re not available to do so, send someone in your stead. Scammers often sell lands that have already been sold to someone. Visit the site to confirm that the property exists and it matches the exact description you were given.
- Verify land documents: Don’t assume the documents are real. Always verify the land documents with the right authorities. Key documents like the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) prove the land is legally allocated. The Seed of Assignment confirms the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer. Survey plans show the exact boundaries of the land.
- Avoid cash payments: Never pay for land in cash. Scammers often prefer cash transactions because it’s untraceable. Instead, use bank transfers and insist on getting a receipt for every payment made. If the seller refuses, it’s a red flag.
Additional Tip for Safe Land Transactions in Badagry
Buying land in Badagry is a great opportunity Our Beautiful Garden Estate is a great place to invest in. Here’s an extra tip to guide your land transaction.
- Use verified and trusted real estate companies. Working with verified and trusted real estate companies reduces the chances of falling prey to scammers. These companies usually have established reputations. They often work with legal professionals to ensure their transactions are legitimate.
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Conclusion
When it comes to buying land in Badagry, do your due diligence. Don’t be in a hurry to make payment. With the rapid development in the area, these scammers are getting rampant. Protect your money and safeguard your future. Land is a valuable asset, and buying it in Badagry can be rewarding if you do it right.
By conducting thorough research, visiting the land in person, verifying documents with the right authorities, and avoiding cash payments, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to land scams.
To explore any of our investment plans like land banking, retirement plan, kids education investment plan, trade apprenticeship plan or if you want to purchase some plots where you will have residential or commercial buildings, send an email to us at info@affablehomes.com.ng or call +2349134056630.