12/05/2026
Buying land is exciting, but the first few steps after purchase are what protect your ownership and prevent future problems. Here’s a practical checklist of what to do immediately after buying land:
1. Collect and secure all documents
Keep both physical and digital copies of:
• Purchase receipt
• Deed of Assignment / Sale Agreement
• Survey plan
• Allocation letter (if applicable)
• Government consent documents
• Seller’s ID and signed transfer documents
2. Verify the land records again
Confirm the land is properly registered and the transfer reflects your ownership at the appropriate land registry in your state.
3. Perfect the title
Depending on the land type and location, this may include:
• Governor’s Consent
• Stamp Duty
• Registration at the Land Registry
• Obtaining or updating a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
4. Take possession immediately
Visit the land physically after purchase. This helps establish possession and discourages disputes or trespassing.
5. Survey and beacon the land
Hire a licensed surveyor to:
• Confirm boundaries
• Place visible beacons
• Ensure there is no encroachment
6. Fence the property if possible
Even a basic perimeter fence or corner markings can help prevent land grabbers and illegal occupation.
7. Put up a signboard
A simple notice like:
“PRIVATE PROPERTY – NOT FOR SALE”
can discourage trespassers and fraudulent resales.
8. Meet the community leaders/neighbors
Introduce yourself to:
• Baale/community head
• Neighboring landowners
• Estate management (if in an estate)
This helps avoid local disputes and keeps people aware of the real owner.
9. Pay all outstanding fees
Ensure development levy, community dues, survey fees, and government charges are settled and receipted properly.
10. Check zoning and development rules
Confirm:
• Residential or commercial use
• Building setbacks
• Road expansion plans
• Environmental restrictions
11. Protect against encroachment
Visit the land regularly, especially if you do not plan to build immediately.
12. Start planning development
Even if construction is far away:
• Get architectural ideas
• Prepare a budget
• Plan access to water, electricity, and roads
13. Insure the property if valuable improvements exist
If there’s already a structure or fence, consider land/property insurance.
14. Keep records of every payment and visit
Save:
• Photos/videos of the land
• Receipts
• Agreements
• Communication with agents or sellers
For land purchases in Nigeria specifically, title perfection and regular inspection are especially important because of common issues involving double sales, encroachment, and documentation problems.
