Port-Harcourt is booming. From new estates in the outskirts to redevelopment in core city areas, the demand for land has never been higher. Naturally, this has caught the attention of smart investors, real estate developers, and everyday Nigerians looking to own a piece of the city. But it has also attracted something far more dangerous: fraudulent real estate firms in Port-Harcourt posing as the best.
These scammers are not always obvious. They dress well, speak confidently, and may even show you impressive brochures or videos. But beneath the surface, some are selling land they don’t own, recycling plots that have already been sold to others, or worse, marketing government-acquired land that is not legally for sale.
This is especially dangerous for first-time buyers, who may not know what to look for. The excitement of becoming a landowner can make you overlook crucial steps like verifying documents, confirming land ownership, or insisting on proper legal procedures. And that’s exactly what these fake agents count on.
The truth is: for every genuine land deal in Port-Harcourt, there are other fraudulent real estate developers waiting to part with your money. This article is your shield.
It breaks down 10 common red flags you should watch out for when dealing with any real estate firm or land agent in Port-Harcourt that proves that they are fraudulent. Whether you’re buying land for residential, commercial, or investment purposes, this guide will help you make smarter, safer decisions.
1. They Pressure You to Pay Before the Site Visit
Have you heard lines like:
“Hurry up and pay or someone else will take it.”
“It’s our last plot. We can only reserve it if you transfer today.”
This is a classic pressure tactic used by fraudsters. If someone is trying to rush you into payment without letting you inspect the land physically, that’s a big red flag.
Why it matters: If you haven’t seen the land, how do you know it even exists — or that it’s not swampy, occupied, or under dispute?
What to do:
- Always insist on a site inspection before payment. Go with your own agent, surveyor, or someone you trust.
2. No Verified Office Address or Company Profile
Serious businesses don’t hide behind WhatsApp. If the company has no physical office, refuses to meet in a formal space, or avoids giving its CAC (Corporate Affairs Commission) registration, you’re not dealing with a real firm.
Why it matters: If a deal goes wrong, where will you find them?
What to do:
Ask for their CAC number, company name, and location. Look them up on cac.gov.ng. If they avoid the question, walk away.
3. They Can’t Show You Real Land Documents
Every legit land deal should come with a survey plan, a deed of assignment, and ideally, a C of O or other title. If they can’t show these or keep stalling, they may not own the land.
What to do:
- Ask to see copies of the land documents before any negotiation. Then verify them with a lawyer or the Ministry of Lands.
4. They Claim Every Property Has a C of O
Not every plot of land, especially undeveloped land, has a Certificate of Occupancy. If the agent claims every property has one, they may be trying to impress you without proof.
What to do:
- Ask for the actual document and verify the file number at the Ministry of Lands. If they can’t provide it, it’s likely false.
5. No Website, Online Reviews, or Track Record
A company that can sell millions of naira worth of land should have at least a Facebook page, a Google listing, or past client reviews. No trace online? Be careful.
What to do:
- Google the company name. Search for reviews. Ask for references or pictures of completed projects.
Also Read:
- Read This Article Before You Buy Any Land in Port-Harcourt
- Should I Buy Land or a Car with My First 10 Million Naira?
- Why Real Estate Investing is Better Than Stock Investing in Nigeria
6. They Use Guilt or Emotion to Avoid Questions
Ever heard:
“Ah, you don’t trust me?”
“We’ve been in business for years, why are you questioning me?”
This is emotional manipulation. Real professionals don’t get defensive when you ask questions; they give answers.
What to do:
- Stay calm and firm. Your money is your right to ask tough questions. If they act offended, you might be dodging a bullet.
7. They Can’t Explain Basic Land Titles or Terms
Ask them about excision, gazette, or the land’s title and they change the topic or fumble through. That’s a sign they either don’t know or don’t want you to know.
What to do:
- Ask specific questions like:
“Is the land exercised?”
“Can I see the title number?”
If they can’t answer clearly, don’t proceed.
8. All Communication Happens via Voice Notes & Chat
No formal receipts, no offer letter and no contract. Just WhatsApp and voice notes? That’s not how a land deal should be done.
What to do:
- Ask for a proper offer letter, receipts, and official documents with the company’s name and logo. If they say “we don’t do paperwork,” don’t do business.
9. Fake Promos That Expire in Hours
“50% off if you pay before 5 PM today!”
“Buy 1, get 2 free, only valid till tonight!”
These fake urgencies are designed to force emotional decisions, not logical ones.
What to do:
- A real estate investment is too big to rush. Don’t let fear of missing out (FOMO) make you ignore due diligence.
10. They Discourage You from Using a Lawyer or Surveyor
If someone says,
“You don’t need a lawyer. We’ve handled everything.”
“Surveyor? We already did that. No need.”
Huge red flag. Real estate is a legal matter, and any firm that blocks you from getting legal help probably has something to hide.
What to do:
- Never skip using a real estate lawyer and a registered surveyor. They are your first line of protection.
Also Read:
- How to Save Money for Your Real Estate Investment as an Employee in Nigeria
- Everything You Should Know About Freehold Land Title in Nigeria
- Why Women Should Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria
Don’t Ignore the Red Flags
Fraudulent real estate firms in Port-Harcourt that are out to scam don’t always look suspicious. In fact, they often look like the most convincing deals. But here’s the reality: once you make that payment, many of these “agents” disappear. No land, no documents and no refund. And no way to trace them.
That’s why it’s so important to trust your instincts and do your due diligence. If you notice just two or three red flags, don’t push them aside. Investigate them. Ask more questions. Get a second opinion. Because when it comes to land purchases, what you ignore today could cost you for years to come.
Protect Yourself
- Ask questions: Don’t feel shy. It’s your money. Ask about the land title, the seller, and the documents over and over again if needed.
- Demand transparency: If they hesitate to show documents, give vague answers, or pressure you into paying quickly, that’s a clear sign.
- Insist on verification: Before you transfer a single naira, verify everything with a lawyer, surveyor, or at the Ministry of Lands.
If you’re unsure about a land deal or need help reviewing documents, talk to a registered real estate consultant who knows Port-Harcourt’s terrain and local land issues. Don’t rely solely on what the agent tells you to protect yourself with professional guidance.
A 30-minute consultation could save you from 3 years of regret, legal battles, or financial loss. Land is one of the best investments you can make, but only when it’s genuine, verified, and safe.
To explore any of our real estate investment packages 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.
Click here to fill the form and we will reach out to you immediately.
