The Hidden Costs of Buying a House in Lagos—What Nobody Tells You! By Dennis Isong

Buying a house in Lagos is a big dream for many people. But beyond the excitement of holding your own key and calling a place your own, there are some “silent” costs that can shock you if you’re not prepared.

Whether you’re buying for personal use or investment, understanding these hidden costs will help you avoid unexpected financial stress. Let’s break it down in plain, simple English.

1. Legal Fees (The Lawyer Must Chop)

After finding your dream house, you’ll need a lawyer to verify the documents and guide you through the transaction. This is not free. Most lawyers charge 5%–10% of the property value. Some might charge a flat rate, but for properties in hot areas like Lekki, Ikoyi, or Ikeja, expect to pay a reasonable sum.

Why it matters: A good lawyer can save you from buying “wahala” property. It’s better to pay legal fees than to cry later.

2. Agency Fee (Oga Agent Will Collect Him Share)

If an agent links you to the property, they will demand an agency fee. This is usually 5% of the property value. Even if you found the house online, if an agent steps in to facilitate the process, expect a bill.

Pro Tip: Always agree on this fee upfront to avoid drama later.

3. Survey Plan Cost

You’ll need a survey plan that shows the exact size and location of the land/house. This isn’t cheap, especially in Lagos. The cost depends on the location but can range from ₦150,000 to ₦1 million or more.

Hidden truth: Some properties may already have a survey, but you still need to verify and possibly update it in your name.

4. Governor’s Consent or C of O Charges

Many properties in Lagos come with either a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or Governor’s Consent. If you’re buying a property with a C of O and you’re not the first owner, you’ll likely need to process Governor’s Consent.

This can cost millions of naira, depending on the size and location of the property.

Don’t ignore this: It’s a legal requirement and gives you full ownership rights. Without it, you may just be a “caretaker.”

5. Development Levy

If you’re buying in an estate or a new development area, the developers may ask you to pay a development levy. This fee covers roads, drainage, streetlights, and sometimes even security.

It’s not usually mentioned until after you’ve paid for the land.

Range: From ₦500,000 to ₦5 million or more depending on the estate.

6. Documentation Fees (Paperwork Is Not Free)

Many developers and property sellers will charge you for documentation. This includes:

• Deed of Assignment

• Receipts

• Allocation letters

All these might cost you ₦100,000 to ₦1 million or more.

Reality check: Buying a house is not just about paying for the building—it’s about legal ownership, and documentation is key.

7. Omo Onile Wahala (Land Grabbers & Area Boys)

If you’re buying undeveloped land in some areas, you might have to “settle” local boys. These omo onile can charge you for everything:

• Fencing the land
• Foundation laying
• Roofing

And sometimes, even for just visiting the site!

Cost: Can run into hundreds of thousands or even millions, depending on how bold they are.

How to avoid it: Buy from verified estates or areas with government allocation.

8. Cost of Title Verification (No Be Every Paper Be Correct)

Even when you see “C of O” or “Governor’s Consent” on paper, you still need to verify the title at the Lagos State Land Registry.

Cost: Between ₦50,000 to ₦300,000, depending on whether you’re doing it yourself or through a lawyer.

Why it’s necessary: Some papers are forged. You don’t want to discover this after payment.

9. Utility Connection Charges

Once you move in, you may need to pay for:

• Electricity connection (Prepaid meter or transformer contribution)

• Water connection (Borehole or estate water)

• Waste disposal registration

These things may sound minor, but combined, they can cost ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 or more.

10. Renovation or Finishing (Especially for ‘Buy & Fix’ Properties)

Some houses may look fine on the surface but need work—painting, plumbing, tiling, roofing repairs, etc.

If you’re buying a second-hand home, budget for at least ₦500,000 to ₦5 million depending on the age and size of the house.

Note: Always inspect with a builder or engineer to get a realistic renovation estimate before buying.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Budget for the House, Budget for the Extras!

Many people make the mistake of saving ₦50 million to buy a house only to realize they need another ₦5–₦10 million for all the other things nobody warned them about.

Smart Move: When planning to buy a house in Lagos, always set aside 10%–20% of the property price to cover these hidden costs. That way, you’re not caught off guard.

Bonus Tips:

• Always involve professionals—lawyers, surveyors, and real estate consultants.
• Don’t rush because the agent says “another buyer is coming tomorrow.”
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Need Help Navigating the Lagos Property Market Without Falling Into Hidden Cost Traps?

Call me your real estate bodyguard. I’ve seen the drama, heard the stories, and helped people like you avoid premium tears.

Let me help you buy smart, safe, and stress-free.

#DennisIsong
 Your Lagos Property Plug.
(And unofficial Omo Onile negotiator. Don’t worry, I sabi am.)

STOP LOSING MONEY IN LAGOS REAL ESTATE! Learn How to Protect Your Investment Today.
 => LandProperty.ng/free

Your future deserves the assurance of due diligence.

The Purple Blossom Dental Studio Opens Its Doors with State-of-the-Art Facilities in Moreleta Park

Excitedly, the Purple Blossom Dental Studio has officially reopened its doors in Moreleta Park, Pretoria, bringing advanced dental care and technology to the heart of the community. The studio, known for its dedication to providing top-tier service, has undergone a major upgrade, ensuring patients receive the highest standard of care in a serene and comfortable environment.

The studio caters to patients of all ages, offering a range of services from routine check-ups to specialized treatments. Whether you’re looking to maintain your oral health or seeking cosmetic dental work, the team at The Purple Blossom Dental Studio is committed to helping you smile with confidence.

“We are thrilled to be back and better than ever,” said the spokesperson for The Purple Blossom Dental Studio. “Our goal is to provide every patient with exceptional dental care using the latest technology and techniques, all while ensuring a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere.”

The studio invites new and returning patients to schedule their appointments and experience the difference that modern dental care can make. The clinic’s professional team is eager to meet the needs of the local community, and they emphasize that healthy, beautiful smiles are their top priority.

Location:
The Purple Blossom Dental Studio
1277 De Villebois Mareuil Drive
Moreleta Park, Pretoria

For Appointments:
Call 012 997 2040

This marks a significant milestone for The Purple Blossom Dental Studio, as it continues to expand its reach and elevate the dental care experience in Pretoria.
https://g.co/kgs/rJr1etX

Reliable Source Defends Okunfulure Olusola Steve, Denies Money Laundering Allegations

A trusted and close associate of Mr. Okunfulure Olusola Steve has come forward to refute the widespread reports alleging his involvement in money laundering.

According to the source, who is based in the United States and has longstanding ties with Mr. Olusola, the Nigerian-born businessman is a legitimate entrepreneur with a verifiable professional background in the U.S.

“I want to categorically state that Olusola is not involved in money laundering,” the associate stated. “He is a law-abiding citizen who has never engaged in any criminal activity.”

The source clarified that Mr. Olusola was in Nigeria to attend a private function and was apprehended at Murtala Muhammed International Airport while returning to the U.S., with $30,000 in his possession. The issue reportedly arose due to his failure to properly declare the amount to airport authorities, which led to allegations of money laundering.

“This situation has caused significant distress to his family, friends, and associates, as Olusola is widely regarded as a person of integrity and good character,” the associate added.

It will be recalled that Justice Deinde I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, convicted and sentenced Mr. Okunfulure Olusola Steve to three months imprisonment for money laundering. He was arrested on March 28, 2025, by operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service at the airport for failing to declare the $30,000 in his possession, in violation of the law.