The Legal Essentials Every Investor Must Know Before Land Transactions

In real estate, one wrong step can cost millions—or even your entire investment. That’s why before committing to any land purchase, investors must pay close attention to the legal framework guiding the transaction. A little due diligence upfront can save you from years of disputes, litigation, or outright loss.

Here are the critical legal essentials every investor must know before buying land:

 

1. Verify the Title Documents

The first step is confirming ownership. Always request and verify the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Deed of Assignment, or Governor’s Consent, depending on the status of the land.

Why this matters: Only the true legal owner—or an authorised representative—can sell. Fake or double ownership claims are some of the most common land fraud cases in Nigeria.

 

2. Conduct a Proper Land Search

Don’t take anyone’s word for it. Visit the state land registry to confirm whether the land:

  • Is genuinely registered

  • Has encumbrances, mortgages, or litigation tied to it

  • Falls under government acquisition or restriction

A thorough search provides legal assurance before money changes hands.

 

3. Check Land Use and Zoning Laws

Every piece of land falls under certain use classifications (residential, agricultural, commercial, industrial). Investors must confirm the zoning laws to avoid purchasing land they can’t legally use for their intended project.

For example, you cannot buy agricultural land and immediately build residential estates without proper reclassification and approvals.

 

4. Obtain a Survey Plan

The survey plan defines the exact boundaries and coordinates of the land. Cross-check the survey with the land registry records to ensure the land you’re shown is exactly what’s on paper.

Boundary disputes are a leading cause of litigation. A survey plan saves you from costly future battles.

 

5. Secure the Governor’s Consent

In Nigeria, all land is technically owned by the government under the Land Use Act. Any transfer of ownership (via sale or assignment) requires the Governor’s Consent to be valid in law.

Without this, even if you have a Deed of Assignment, your ownership could be challenged.

 

6. Draft a Solid Sales Agreement

Once all checks are complete, the sales agreement must be drafted by a qualified legal practitioner. The agreement should cover:

  • Full details of buyer and seller

  • Payment structure and timeline

  • Land description and survey details

  • Dispute resolution clauses

This document becomes your legal shield in case of future disagreements.

 

7. Confirm Taxes and Development Levies

Land transactions often come with taxes, stamp duties, or community development levies. Ensure all fees are calculated, paid, and documented to prevent surprise claims later.

 

8. Engage Professionals at Every Stage

Real estate is not DIY. Investors should work with:

  • Real estate lawyers – for contracts and due diligence

  • Surveyors – for accurate boundary confirmation

  • Estate valuers – for fair pricing

  • Agents – for market insights and negotiation support

This team ensures the process is transparent, secure, and future-proof.

 

Final Thoughts

Land can be one of the most rewarding investments, but only if you protect yourself legally. From title verification to zoning checks and proper agreements, every step matters.

At the School of Estate and Business, we emphasize that knowledge is the true security in real estate. Before you invest in land, equip yourself with the legal essentials—because in property, mistakes don’t just cost money, they cost peace of mind.