Questions You Should Always Ask Before Paying for a Property

Don’t Transfer a Single Naira Until You Have Answers to These Questions!!

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Introduction

Finding a property you love is exciting.

You’ve finally found the photos you’ve been looking for. The location looks perfect. The price seems reasonable. The agent sounds convincing.

Then comes the sentence many Lagos property seekers hear:

“If you’re serious, make payment today before someone else takes it.”

That moment is where many expensive mistakes begin.

Whether you’re renting an apartment, leasing a commercial property or buying a home, asking the right questions before making any payment can save you money, stress and disappointment.

At LagosPlug, we believe informed decisions create better experiences. Before you transfer a single naira, here are the questions every property seeker should ask.

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Is This Property Still Available?

It sounds obvious, but many people begin negotiating or even make deposits for properties that are no longer available.

Ask directly:

• Is the property currently available?
• Has anyone already paid?
• When was this listing last updated?

A professional agent should answer confidently.

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What Exactly Does the Price Include?

The advertised rent or sale price isn’t always the full amount you’ll pay.

Ask for a complete breakdown.

For rentals, this may include:

• Agency fee
• Legal fee
• Caution fee
• Service charge
• Agreement fee
• Security levy
• Estate maintenance
• Utility deposits

Knowing the total cost prevents unpleasant surprises.

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Can I Physically Inspect the Property?

Never rely solely on photographs.

Photos can be old.
They can be edited.
Sometimes they’re not even from the same property.

Visit the property whenever possible.

During inspection, check:

• Water supply
• Electricity
• Ventilation
• Road access
• Drainage
• Parking
• Internet availability
• Mobile network reception
• General building condition

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Who Is the Actual Property Owner or Authorized Agent?

Make sure the person you’re speaking with has authority to advertise the property.

Ask:

• Are you the owner?
• Are you representing the owner?
• Do you have authority to rent or sell this property?

Professional agents should have no issue explaining their relationship to the property.

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Are There Any Hidden Monthly or Annual Charges?

Some estates have ongoing costs beyond rent.

Examples include:

• Estate security
• Waste disposal
• Generator maintenance
• Cleaning services
• Facility management
• Parking fees

Always ask before committing.

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Why Is the Property Available?

This simple question often reveals useful information.

Perhaps:

• The previous tenant relocated.
• The property has just been renovated.
• The owner is selling.
• The building has recently been completed.

Understanding the context helps you make a more informed decision.

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What Is the Neighbourhood Like?

You’re not just choosing a building.

You’re choosing an environment.

Ask about:

• Flooding during rainy season
• Noise levels
• Security
• Traffic
• Nearby schools
• Hospitals
• Supermarkets
• Public transport
• Distance to work

The perfect apartment in the wrong neighbourhood may not be perfect after all.

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Is Everything in the Photos Included?

Sometimes furniture, appliances or fittings shown in listing photos aren’t included.

Clarify items such as:

• Air conditioners
• Wardrobes
• Kitchen appliances
• Curtains
• Water heaters
• CCTV systems
• Generators

Never assume.

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What Repairs Will Be Completed Before I Move In?

If you notice issues during inspection, ask whether they will be fixed.

Examples include:

• Broken doors
• Faulty plumbing
• Damaged tiles
• Paintwork
• Electrical fittings

If repairs are promised, ask when they’ll be completed.

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What Are the Payment Terms?

Before transferring money, understand exactly how payment works.

Ask:

• Is payment annual or monthly?
• Are instalments accepted?
• Who receives payment?
• Will I receive a receipt?
• Will I receive a tenancy agreement or sales documentation?

Never rush this conversation.

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Can Everything We Agreed Be Put in Writing?

Verbal promises can easily be forgotten.

If something matters, have it documented.

This includes:

• Price
• Payment schedule
• Repairs
• Included items
• Move-in date
• Any special agreements

Written agreements protect everyone involved.

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Have I Compared Similar Properties?

One of the biggest mistakes property seekers make is falling in love with the first property they see.

Take your time.

Compare:

• Price
• Location
• Features
• Condition
• Accessibility
• Overall value

Sometimes spending one extra day comparing options leads to a much better decision.

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Final Thoughts

Paying for a property is one of the biggest financial decisions many people make.

Excitement should never replace careful questioning.

A trustworthy agent won’t be offended by reasonable questions. In fact, professionals expect them. Taking time to understand exactly what you’re paying for can save you from unnecessary costs, misunderstandings and disappointment later.

At LagosPlug, we’re building a platform that makes discovering properties across Lagos more transparent and straightforward. Every listing submitted to LagosPlug goes through a review process before publication, and we encourage every property seeker to inspect a property, verify important details and ask the questions that matter before making any payment.

Your next home deserves confidence—not guesswork.

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Key Takeaways

Before paying for any property, make sure you know:

• ✅ The property is genuinely available.
• ✅ The total amount you’ll pay, not just the advertised price.
• ✅ You’ve inspected the property.
• ✅ You’re dealing with the owner or an authorised agent.
• ✅ There are no hidden charges.
• ✅ Everything important is documented before payment.