You have decided to purchase land in Nigeria and you are anxious to know the documents required for the transaction. Relax, we have got you covered. In this article, we shall list all the documents you will need for the purchase.
We advise that you get these documents together before seeking the services of a lawyer or conveyancer. This will save you time and money. So, without further ado, here is the list:
1. Copy of your international passport or national ID card
2. Purchase agreement or offer letter from the seller
3. Deed of assignment or transfer from the seller
4. Certificate of occupancy or title deed from the relevant government agency
Introduction to Land Documents in Nigeria
When purchasing land in Nigeria, there are specific documents that are required in order to complete the process.
The list of documents needed can vary depending on the state or region you are purchasing land in, so it is important to research the specific requirements for your area. Generally, the documents you will need include a copy of your ID, proof of residence, proof of ownership (or a letter from the owner granting permission to purchase the land), and a purchase agreement.
If you are unable to provide all of the required documents, you may be able to get a document waiver or exemption depending on your situation. It is important to speak with an attorney or land registrar or a good realtor to find out more about what is required in your area.
Types of Documents Required for Land Purchase
When you are buying land in Nigeria, there are a number of documents you will be required to provide. These documents fall into three categories:
The first category is the documents that prove your identity and ownership of the land. The most common document for this purpose is the title deed, which is a document that shows that you are the legal owner of the land. Other documents that can be used to prove ownership include the Deed of Conveyance, the Certificate of Title, and the Receipt of Payment.
The second category is the documents that show that you have the right to purchase the land. The most common document for this purpose is the letters of administration, which gives you authority to purchase the land on behalf of another person. Other documents that can be used to show the right of purchase include the power of attorney and court orders.
The third category is the documents that show that you have fulfilled all the necessary requirements for the land purchase. The most common document for this purpose is the certificate of occupancy, which confirms that all building and zoning laws have been complied with. Other documents that can be used to show compliance include building permit, electrical permits, and drainage permits.
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Benefits of Having Legally Proven Documents
When purchasing land in Nigeria, it is important to have all the required documents in order to avoid any legal issues. The benefits of having the documents legally proven are:
- The purchaser can rest assured that he/she is the rightful owner of the land
- It shows that due diligence was done in researching the land and its history
- In the event of a dispute, the purchaser will have legal backing to prove his/her case
Steps to Procuring the Necessary Land Document in Nigeria
The next step is to procure the necessary land document from the office of the State Surveyor General. The document you will need is called the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).
The C of O is the highest form of land ownership in Nigeria and it gives the owner absolute title to the land. It is important to note that this document can only be obtained from the office of the State Surveyor General.
The process of obtaining a C of O can be divided into two parts:
- first, you will need to obtain a search report from the office of the State Surveyor General;
- second, you will need to apply for and obtain the C of O itself.
Obtaining a search report is relatively simple and straightforward: you will need to complete a short application form and submit it, along with the required fee, to the office of the State Surveyor General. Once your application has been processed, you will be given a search report.
The process of applying for a C of O is slightly more complicated: you will need to submit an application form, along with the required fee, to the office of the State Surveyor General. In addition, you will also need to submit a survey plan of the land in question.
Once your application has been processed, you will be given a C of O. It is important to note that this process can take some time – typically, it takes between 6 and 12 months to obtain a C of O.
To cut the process short or be stress-free when you want to buy land, use a reliable real estate company.
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What Happens When a Seller or Buyer Fails to Produce Required Documents?
If either the buyer or the seller does not have the necessary documents, the deal may not go through. In some cases, the party that does not have the required documents may be able to get them within a certain time frame. If they are unable to procure them, then the deal will most likely fall through.
FAQs on Land Purchase Process in Nigeria
Is there a standard land size in Nigeria?
No, there is no standard land size in Nigeria. The size of a land parcel depends on the landowner.
What is the minimum land size I can purchase?
The minimum land size you can purchase is usually one acre. However, this may vary depending on the state you are looking to purchase land. It is best to consult with a local real estate agent to find out the minimum land size in the state you are interested in.
How much does an acre of land cost in Nigeria?
The cost of an acre of land in Nigeria varies depending on the location of the land. Land in urban areas is typically more expensive than land in rural areas. The price of an acre of land also depends on the purpose for which it will be used. Agricultural land is typically less expensive than commercial or residential land.
Conclusion
When it comes to purchasing land in Nigeria, it’s important to have all the required documents ready. This will help the process go smoothly and ensure that there are no delays. Here is a complete list of the documents you will need.
