5 Important Questions To Ask Before Buying A House In Abuja

Real Estate transactions often come with many assumptions, and failing to ask the right questions before buying a house can lead to costly mistakes. We’ve heard a lot of stories from our clients who have been scammed out of their hard-earned money in the past simply because they didn’t ask the right questions before making the decision to buy a property.

One of our clients who narrated his experience with us said he bought a house few years ago, only to discover that the land it was built on was in dispute. To this day, he is still trying to get his investment back. How sad isn’t it?!

You can avoid common real estate issues by asking the right questions and doing a little research yourself. The following are some important questions to ask your realtor before buying a house:

1. What Documents Does the Property Have?

It is important to know the documentation and titles associated with the property. Common documents include the Certificate of Occupancy, Deed of Assignment, and Excision Title. Make sure you understand what title your property has before making a purchase.

2. Should I Get an Inspection Done Before Signing the Contract?

Just like you would inspect a car before buying it, it is advisable to inspect a property before finalizing the deal. This allows you to walk away from the deal if you find any significant issues.

3. Are There Any Deed Restrictions on the Property?

Deed restrictions govern how you can use your property, often extending beyond local zoning laws. For instance, if you plan to set up a kiosk in front of your property or convert a living room into a bedroom, you need to ensure these actions are allowed. Understanding these restrictions is important for making an informed decision.

4. Are There Any Hidden Charges?

Beyond the property’s purchase price, there are often additional costs such as VAT, legal fees, and utility bills. Asking about these charges upfront can prevent unpleasant surprises. We’ve seen cases where clients were caught off guard by utility fees because the realtor didn’t inform them beforehand. Such scenarios can be avoided by asking the right questions.

5. What is the Mode of Payment?

Payment plans can vary, so it’s important to find out which payment plan suits your needs.