How to Inspect a Lagos Real Estate Area Before Buying or Investing

Visiting a neighborhood in Lagos — or even inspecting it virtually—requires more than scrolling listings. Over time, I’ve learned there’s a clear framework to understand an area before making decisions.

1️⃣ Location Logic, Not Just Address
It’s not enough to know the name of the area. study:

• How people enter and exit

• Distance to major roads and business districts

• What surrounds it now vs. what’s coming

This helps to determine if the area is growing, stagnant, or declining.

2️⃣ Infrastructure Reality
Before visiting, observe:

• Road conditions from expressway to estate

• Drainage and flood history

• Power supply reliability

• Water source

Infrastructure explains why prices are what they are and where they might go.

3️⃣ Demand Signals
Look for signs of real occupancy:

• Tenants moving in or out

• Ongoing construction

• Schools, malls, clinics, offices

Empty estates with glossy marketing often signal caution.

4️⃣ Price Benchmarks
Check current prices for:

• Land per plot

• Rent for flats and houses

• Sale prices of similar homes

This helps spot overpricing, undervaluation, and negotiation opportunities.

What to Ask When Talking to One Agent or Developer

1️⃣ Transaction History

• What sold recently?

• At what price?

• How long did it take?

This reveals liquidity, not just the asking price.

2️⃣ Buyer Profile

• Who buys here? Investors, families, diaspora?

• Owner-occupiers or renters?

Strong areas have repeat buyer types, not random interest.

3️⃣ Real Challenges

• Flooding issues?

• Power problems?

• Title or documentation delays?

Good agents are transparent; they reveal problems early.

4️⃣ Future Catalysts

• Confirmed road work?

• Estate upgrades?

• Nearby commercial projects?

Separate approved projects from rumors, because real appreciation depends on confirmed developments.

💡 Key Insight:
Even a single visit plus one informed conversation can teach you more about an area than weeks of online research. Observing infrastructure, demand, and actual prices gives you a realistic picture of value.