Do you want to know how you can verify a property in Abuja before you buy? Keep reading as we teach you ways you can use to verify a property in Abuja before you buy.
Many first-time buyers fall victim to scams because they fail to properly verify ownership documents, land titles, and the authenticity of the seller or agent.
In Abuja, where property transactions can be complex due to evolving regulations and multiple layers of approval, being cautious is key. Knowing the right government agencies to consult, the documents to request, and the red flags to watch out for will help you make a confident and informed purchase.
Here, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of verifying property in Abuja, from checking titles at the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) to confirming building approvals and surveying boundaries. If you want peace of mind and a secure investment, verification is your first and most important step.
How to Verify Property in Abuja Before You Buy
Here is a step by step guide to verify a property in Abuja before you buy:
1. Confirm Title Documents at AGIS
The Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) is the official body responsible for managing land records in Abuja. Before purchasing any property, the first and most crucial step is to verify the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or Right of Occupancy (R of O) through AGIS.
This ensures the seller is the rightful owner and that the land is properly registered. You can visit the AGIS office in person or conduct an online search using the property file number. Be wary of photocopied or fake documents, always request the original copies for verification.
Checking with AGIS will also reveal whether the land is under government acquisition or involved in legal disputes. This simple step protects you from scams and saves you from unknowingly buying illegal or encumbered land.
2. Verify Land Use and Zoning Regulations
Every piece of land in Abuja is zoned for a specific purpose residential, commercial, institutional, or agricultural. Verifying land use is crucial to ensure you can legally carry out your intended development.
You can confirm zoning regulations through the Department of Development Control under the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). Buying land zoned for a different use can result in denied building permits or even demolition.
It’s also important to check whether the land is within a government-planned area or an unapproved layout. Unapproved layouts may lack essential infrastructure and could be subject to demolition. Always request the layout plan and approval documents.
If you’re unsure, consult a town planner or legal expert to interpret zoning terms and ensure your plans align with the land’s designated use.
3. Conduct a Site Inspection and Boundary Verification
Physical site inspection is a non-negotiable step in verifying property in Abuja. Visit the land to confirm its exact location, boundaries, and physical condition.
You should go with a licensed surveyor to verify that the land measurements match what’s on the survey plan and AGIS records. This helps detect any encroachment, illegal structures, or boundary disputes with neighboring plots.
Some lands might be in flood-prone or marshy areas, which could increase construction costs or pose safety concerns. A site visit also allows you to assess road access, infrastructure availability (such as electricity and water), and proximity to amenities.
If the land is already developed, confirm that all structures have necessary building approvals. A seller may present ideal documents, but if the actual land is different, you could face legal issues. Always insist on seeing the physical property before any commitment.
4. Request and Authenticate Survey Plans
A survey plan outlines the exact size and boundaries of a property. Before buying any land in Abuja, always ask for the survey plan and ensure it is prepared by a registered surveyor. Then, take the plan to the Surveyor General’s office in Abuja for authentication.
The survey plan must match the land’s physical location and details in AGIS records. This is especially important for large plots or lands in newly developed areas, where encroachment is common. Fake or cloned survey plans are often used to deceive buyers, especially in rural or unapproved layouts.
Verifying the plan protects you from purchasing overlapping land or plots already owned by someone else. Also, ensure the beacons (land markers) are visible on the ground and match the coordinates on the plan. Don’t rely on verbal claims or hand-drawn maps; professional confirmation is essential.
5. Conduct a Legal Search Through a Property Lawyer
Hiring a qualified real estate lawyer is one of the best decisions you can make when buying property in Abuja. A lawyer can conduct a comprehensive legal search to uncover any hidden issues tied to the land, including unresolved court cases, outstanding mortgages, family disputes, or government interests.
They’ll also confirm that the documents presented by the seller are authentic and that the seller has the legal right to transfer ownership. Abuja’s property market has many risks, such as fake agents and impersonators, so having a lawyer involved from the beginning ensures you’re dealing with the rightful owner.
In addition, a lawyer can help you draft or review sale agreements, ensuring clauses are in your favor and protecting your financial interests. Legal due diligence is a small price to pay for peace of mind and long-term security in your investment.
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