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Are you tired of hearing horror stories about people losing their hard-earned money to real estate scams? Or maybe you’re ready to start investing but don’t know where to begin? Well, you’re in the right place! I’ll be revealing 6 Safety Tips to avoid being scammed when buying property, whether in Nigeria or anywhere else in the world! Read on—this could save you millions
Welcome to ENCUMBEREDPROPERTIES.COM where WE teach you everything you need to know about real estate investing in Nigeria and beyond. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, this site is your go-to resource for navigating the complex world of property.
Let’s jump right into the 6 SAFETY TIPS FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTING!
Step 1: Verify the Authenticity of the Property Title and the Seller
The first step to avoiding scams is verifying the property and seller.
- Start by properly identifying whom the seller is by running some background checks on him towards confirming his integrity;
- Demand for proof of ownership. Legitimate sellers ought to have a title deed which confers the property on him or her.
- In the Title Deed is often contained: Root of Title which chronicles how the seller came about the property. Follow every name and contact mentioned for authentication.
- If the property is documented at the local Land Registry, extend your inquiries there.
- However, most properties, especially those outside the city centers more often than not, do not have files at the relevant land offices.
- Even when the file exists, cases of contrary claims and encumbrances are hardly updated.
- It is therefore risky to end your searches at Land Registries.
- Encumberedproperties.com is further recommended to you. It is a platform where private individuals, corporations and government agencies upload information of properties that are disputed, encumbered and undisputed properties that are not for sale. In other words, any property on the platform is not supposed to be in the market.
- As a buyer, type in the location of the property being marketed to you into the search section of encumberedproperties.com and all the flagged properties in that location will pop up. You will then see for yourself whether you were about buying a risky property or not.
- And as an owner who does not want his property sold behind him by land grabbers, rush over to the site and enlist your properties either as encumbered, disputed or undisputed but not for sale. By so doing, you have caveated your property, thereby saving yourself of the shock of waking up someday to realize that your property has been dubiously transferred to an innocent buyer. This also saves buyers like yourself from investing into such properties.
- It is a public spirited website that was birthed in response to real estate scams. Her services are free of charge.
- It is in your own interest you also subscribe to our YouTube channel so that you don’t miss out on our updates regarding encumbered properties.
Step 2: Inspect the Property Thoroughly and Check for Encumbrances
Never buy a property based on photos or descriptions alone.
- Visit the site and inspect it for structural issues, hidden damages, or incomplete development.
- Confirm that the property adheres to local zoning laws and regulations.
- Check out for signs of encumbrances and adverse claims
Have you ever inspected a property only to find hidden issues later? Share your experience in the comments below—I’d love to hear your story!
Step 3: Hire a Professional Real Estate Agent or Attorney
Having a professional on your side can save you from costly mistakes.
- A qualified real estate agent will guide you through the buying process, while an attorney will review all legal documents.
- They can spot red flags that you might overlook as a buyer, especially as amateur investors.
Not sure where to find a reliable agent or attorney? We have list of trusted professionals in our pool.
Step 4: Avoid Making Cash Transactions and Use Secure Payment Methods
This might seem obvious, but cash transactions are a big no-no in real estate.
- Always use secure and traceable payment methods like bank transfers or escrow services.
- Keep receipts and documentation for all transactions as proof of payment.
📢 Quick Question: Have you ever been pressured into paying cash for a property? Tell me about it in the comments below.
Step 5: Be Cautious of Unusually Low Prices or High-Pressure Sales Tactics
If the deal feels too good to be true, it probably is.
- Compare the asking price to market rates for similar properties in the area.
- Avoid any seller or agent who pressures you to “act fast” or make an immediate decision.
Step 6: Trust Your Instincts and Walk Away if Necessary
Your instincts are often your best defense.
- If something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s the seller’s behavior or the property’s documentation—walk away.
- Remember, it’s better to lose a deal than to lose your investment.
💡 Remember this: Opportunities in real estate are endless, but your financial safety comes first.
And there you have it—6 essential steps to protect yourself when buying property. Which of these tips did you find most useful? Let me know in the comments below!
🎥 “Thank you for visiting our site. Remember: informed decisions make successful investors. See you in our next article.