10 Simple Questions to Ask Before Buying Land in Badagry

Buying land in Badagry is a great investment. Like any big investment, it comes with some risks. Many people have lost their money to scammers and fake real estate companies. In a fast-growing area like Badagry, it’s easy to see why people want to invest in land. This is why you need to ask the right questions when buying land in Badagry. 

Asking the right questions is the first step to protecting yourself from these risks. These questions will help you verify ownership and also discover any hidden issues.

In this article, we’ll share 10 simple questions to ask before buying land in Badagry. Each question can save you from costly mistakes. 

Are you ready to buy land and avoid regrets? Then keep reading.

1. Who Owns the Land?

This is the most important question to ask before buying land in Badagry. You must confirm the real owner of the land. Many people have lost their hard-earned money because they trusted the wrong person. Some sellers pretend to be the real owner of the land.

Start by asking the seller for proof of ownership. They should provide documents like a Certificate of Ownership(C of O), deed of assignment, or purchase receipt. These documents prove that the seller is the real owner of the land. If the seller is a company, then check if it’s registered. A company that has a reputation is less likely to sell fake land.

Never rely on verbal promises or trust alone. Always verify the true ownership of the land properly. It is better to spend extra time verifying everything than losing your money.

2. Is the Land Under Government Control?

Not every land is safe to buy. Some lands are under government control. This means that the lands have been reserved by the government for specific purposes. If you buy such land, you may end up losing your money. 

To avoid this, always ask if the land is under government control. Don’t just take the seller’s word for it. Make the necessary investigations.

Some sellers might not tell you the truth. The best way is to visit the Lagos State Land Registry or the Bureau of Lands. They have records showing if the land is under government acquisition. If the land is under government control, then avoid it. It doesn’t matter how cheap it is, you will end up losing your money.

Also Read:

• 5 Emerging Locations for Real Estate Investment in Southeast Nigeria
• An Overview of Real Estate Investment Opportunities in Ogwashi-Uku
• Follow This Guidelines to Avoid Land Scams in Badagry

3. What Documents Come with the Land? 

Land documents serve as proof of ownership. Without the necessary documents, you can’t be sure if the seller is the true owner of the land. Always ask to see the document of the land before buying any land. 

Some key documents you should ask for include:

• Certificate of Ownership (C of O): This is the most important document. It proves that the seller has the right to use the land by the government.
• Deed of Assignment: This document shows that the land has been transferred from the original owner to the seller.
• Survey Plan: This map shows the exact size and location of the land.

4. Does the Land Have any Disputes?

Land disputes can cause serious problems. Some lands are involved in family disputes, community issues, or ownership battles. If you buy land having any disputes, you may spend years and money fighting in court. 

Before buying land, ask the seller if the land is under any dispute. Don’t just take his word for it. Do your findings. 

Alternatively, you can hire a lawyer. He will carry out an investigation and let you know if there are any red flags. Never ignore any warning signs. It’s better to walk away with your money intact than regret it later.

5. What Can the Land Be Used For?

Not all lands can a house be built on. Some lands are meant for residential buildings. Others are for businesses, farming, or industrial purposes. You must ensure the land fits your purpose before buying.

Ask the seller about the zoning of the land. Zoning laws decide how land can be used in an area. For example, you cannot build a factory on land meant for housing.

6. Are There Any Extra Costs?

Buying Land isn’t just about paying the seller. There are other costs involved. It’s important to know these costs before making a payment.

Here are some additional costs to ask about:

• Survey Fees: This usually comes with an extra cost. You’ll need a survey to confirm the size and boundaries of the land.
• Legal Fees: You’ll need a lawyer to review documents and guide you through the purchase.
• Agent Fees: If an agent finds the land, you have to pay a commission.
• Community Development Fees: In some areas, communities ask buyers to pay a fee, often known as an “Omonile fee” or “foundation fee.”

7. Is the Land Easy to Get To?

When buying land location matters. Is the land easily accessible? Are there good roads leading to it? These are the questions you need to ask. Start by visiting the land yourself or send someone to. Don’t rely on verbal descriptions from the seller or pictures.

If the land is in an undeveloped area, think about the cost of building roads. You should also check if the area is secured. Lands that are easily accessible increase in value over time. It’s easier to develop, rent out, or resell. 

8. Has the Land Been Measured Properly?

You need to confirm if the land has been measured properly before buying. Sometimes, sellers exaggerate the size of the land to get more money. Neighbors may also encroach on the land if the boundaries are not clear.

Ask the seller for a survey plan. A survey plan is a document that shows the exact size, shape, and location of the land. Hire a surveyor to verify the authenticity of the survey plan. If the land has no survey plan, proceed with caution.

9. Is the Land in a Flood-Prone Area?

Flooding can make a land hard to use. Before buying land in Badagry, one of the questions to ask is if the area is prone to floods. Some areas may look fine during the dry season but become flooded when it rains heavily.

You can start by visiting the land after it rains, if possible. Look for signs of poor drainage, waterlogging, or flood marks on nearby buildings. Ask the seller if it floods in the area. But don’t rely solely on their answers – they may not tell you the whole truth. 

Also Read:

• How to Identify a Fraudulent Real Estate Company in Lagos
• Why Nigerians in the UK Are Buying Land in Droves in Asaba
• The Best Time to Invest in Ibusa Real Estate Market

10. Are There Nearby Amenities 

Before buying land in Badagry, ask about essential amenities. Facilities like roads, electricity, and water make life easier and increase the value of the land. 

Visit the area and find out what’s available. Also, consider the distance to major roads and transportation hubs.

If the land lacks basic amenities, think about the extra cost involved in providing them yourself. Good amenities don’t just make the land comfortable. They also make it easier to resell or develop in the future. 

Buying Land is a big decision. It requires patience and careful research to avoid costly mistakes. Asking the right questions will help you uncover any hidden risks and also ensure you get value for your money. 

By asking these questions before buying land in Badagry, you can confidently enjoy peace of mind.