Avoid property scams
Buying a property is one of the biggest investments most people make in their lives. Whether it’s a house, an apartment, or land, the process can be exciting but it can also be risky. Unfortunately, property scams are common, and falling victim can cost you not only money but also time and peace of mind. The good news is, with the right knowledge, you can protect yourself and make safe property purchases.
Here’s a simple guide on how to avoid scams when buying property.
1. Deal With Reputable Agents or Companies
One of the first rules of safe property buying is working with trusted professionals. Avoid unknown individuals who claim to have “too-good-to-be-true” deals. Instead, rely on reputable real estate companies or licensed agents.
At Tujax, we provide verified properties and professional guidance for both buying and selling. Working with a trusted company reduces the risk of scams and ensures you get legal and documented transactions.
2. Verify the Property Documents
Before you pay any money, make sure all the property documents are genuine and up to date. Key documents to check include:
-
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
-
Deed of Assignment
-
Survey Plan
-
Land Receipts and Government Approvals
Don’t hesitate to visit government offices or land registries to verify the authenticity of the documents. Fraudsters often use fake documents to trick buyers, so verification is essential.
3. Visit the Property in Person
Always inspect the property physically before making any payments. Avoid buying land or buildings based solely on pictures, maps, or online listings. Visiting the property helps you:
-
Confirm the location
-
Check the condition of the building
-
Ensure the land exists and matches the documents
If you can’t visit personally, ask a trusted representative or Tujax agent to conduct the inspection for you.
4. Avoid Paying Large Sums in Advance
Scammers often demand full payment upfront. A safe practice is to:
-
Pay a small deposit first
-
Ensure there is a written agreement detailing payment terms, timelines, and responsibilities
-
Never pay cash to strangers
Secure payment methods and documented agreements protect you if anything goes wrong.
5. Research the Seller: Avoid property scams
Take time to research the seller. Are they a registered individual or a company? Do they have a track record of successful property sales? Online reviews, word-of-mouth, and referrals from trusted sources can help.
Fraudsters often pretend to be legitimate sellers. Verifying their identity is a critical step in avoiding scams.
6. Be Wary of “Too Good to Be True” Deals
If a property is priced far below market value, it’s a warning sign. Scammers use attractive prices to lure buyers quickly. Always compare the asking price with similar properties in the area. If it seems unrealistic, proceed with caution.
7. Use Legal Assistance: Avoid property scams
Engaging a qualified real estate lawyer can save you from many pitfalls. Lawyers can:
-
Verify documents
-
Draft or review agreements
-
Ensure that the property transfer is legal and binding
This extra step may cost a little, but it can prevent costly mistakes in the long run.
8. Trust Your Instincts: Avoid property scams
If something feels off, pause and investigate. Scammers often pressure buyers to act fast. Take your time, ask questions, and don’t let anyone rush you into paying or signing documents.
Buying property is exciting, but it requires caution. By following these tips working with reputable agents, verifying documents, inspecting properties, and using legal assistance you can protect yourself from scams and make smart investments.
For anyone looking to buy or sell property safely, Tujax is here to guide you every step of the way. We provide verified listings, professional agents, and secure transactions to ensure your property dealings are safe and stress-free.
📌 Contact Tujax Today:
🌐 Website: www.tujax.com.ng
📱 WhatsApp: https://wa.me/23480111055633
Make smart property choices, avoid scams, and invest with confidence!
