The Nigerian real estate industry offers great opportunities, but it also has its share of risks. One of the biggest fears of potential land and property buyers is falling victim to fraud—losing money, buying land under dispute, or dealing with fake documents.
At MZ Diamond Real Estate, we’re committed to protecting our clients from scams. That’s why we’re sharing this guide on how to spot red flags and avoid problematic land deals in Nigeria.
1. No Verified Title Documents
One of the clearest signs of a fraudulent land deal is the absence of authentic title documents. These include:
- Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
- Deed of Assignment
- Registered Survey Plan
- Governor’s Consent
- Gazette (for excised lands)
A land seller who cannot provide these documents or who avoids answering questions about them is likely hiding something. Always insist on reviewing and verifying all land documents before making payments.
2. Pressure to Pay Immediately
Scammers often use urgency tactics to pressure you into paying quickly without due diligence. You may hear things like:
“This land is in high demand—you need to pay now or lose it!”
Legitimate companies give clients time to inspect, verify, and process payments securely. At MZ Diamond Real Estate, we encourage our clients to take their time, ask questions, and even bring their legal adviser if necessary.
3. No Physical Access to the Land
If you’re not allowed to visit the land before payment, or if you’re being shown a different location from what’s in the documents, that’s a big red flag. Some agents might even show you land that belongs to someone else.
Always insist on a physical or virtual inspection. A trustworthy real estate firm will schedule site visits, mark plots clearly, and show land boundaries transparently.
4. Discrepancies in Survey and Allocation
Check if the survey plan matches the actual location of the land. Scammers may present forged or altered survey documents. Confirm that the land on paper aligns with the one on the ground.
Also, be wary of “double allocation”—where one plot is sold to multiple buyers. A good real estate company will provide clear allocation papers and receipts, with proper record keeping.
5. Unknown or Untraceable Sellers
Scams often happen when the seller has no legal identity, company registration, or known physical address. If you can’t trace the individual or company after payment, you could lose your investment.
Buy only from registered real estate firms like MZ Diamond Real Estate, with verifiable CAC registration, office address, and active customer service lines.
6. Suspiciously Cheap Prices
While everyone loves a good deal, prices that are too good to be true usually are. Fraudsters may lure buyers with lands priced far below the market rate—only to vanish after collecting payment.
Land prices vary based on location, accessibility, and documentation. Always compare prices in the same area and investigate reasons for any significant discount.
7. No Receipts or Agreement
Never pay for land without receiving a receipt, contract of sale, or a memorandum of understanding (MoU). These documents protect you legally and prove the transaction happened.
At MZ Diamond Real Estate, all payments are officially receipted and accompanied by clear agreements to protect our clients.
How MZ Diamond Real Estate Keeps You Safe
We’ve helped hundreds of buyers—both local and international—secure land safely and confidently by providing:
- 100% verified properties
- Transparent documentation
- Flexible payment plans
- Free inspections and expert consultation
- Guaranteed allocation and support