FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is the process of buying a property in Nigeria?
The general process includes:
Property inspection
Offer and price negotiation
Title verification and land search
Agreement drafting and execution
Payment and documentation
Governor’s Consent or title perfection
Handover and possession
At Gloiyk, we guide clients through each stage to reduce risk and delays.
2. What is a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O or CofO)?
A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is a legal document issued by the State Government that grants a person or entity the right to occupy and use a piece of land for a specified period (usually 99 years). It is one of the strongest land titles in Nigeria and serves as proof of ownership or lawful possession.
However, having a CofO does not automatically make a property risk-free. It must still be verified to ensure it is genuine, valid, and free from government revocation or overriding interests.
3. Is a C of O the only valid land title in Nigeria?
No. While a C of O is highly recognized, other valid titles include:
Deed of Assignment (with Governor’s Consent)
Gazette
Registered Survey
Excision (for formerly government-acquired land)
Each title carries different levels of risk and verification requirements. This is why professional guidance is important.
4. What does “search” mean in real estate?
A land or title search is an official investigation carried out at the appropriate land registry or government office to confirm:
The true owner of the property
The authenticity of the title documents
Whether the land is under government acquisition
Existing encumbrances, disputes, or court cases
A proper search helps prevent fraud, double sales, and future legal issues.
5. Why is due diligence important before buying property?
Due diligence is the process of thoroughly investigating a property before committing funds. It helps you:
Avoid buying government-acquired or revoked land
Confirm ownership and title authenticity
Identify hidden disputes or liens
Protect your investment and future resale value
Skipping due diligence is one of the most common causes of property loss in Nigeria.
6. What is excision and why does it matter?
An excision is a portion of land released by the government to the original indigenous owners (Omo-Onile). Land with excision can be safe to buy only if it is genuine, properly gazetted, and verified.
Buying land with “excision in process” carries higher risk and should be handled cautiously.
7, What is a Gazette?
A Gazette is an official government publication that records excised land. If a land is gazetted, it means the government has formally documented its release. However, not all gazettes are equal—verification is required to ensure the property falls within the excised area.
8. What is Governor’s Consent and why is it required?
Governor’s Consent is the approval required by law for the transfer of interest in land from one party to another. Without it, a property transaction is considered legally incomplete and may be challenged.
9. What should I do once I see a house or land I like?
Once you identify a property of interest:
Do not make full payment immediately
Request title documents
Engage professionals for verification (Gloiyk Properties : 0903 334 4269)
Conduct physical inspection and survey checks
Proceed only after due diligence is complete
This protects you from emotional or rushed decisions.
10. Can I buy property without being physically present in Nigeria?
Yes. Diaspora and remote buyers can safely purchase property through:
Verified documentation
Video inspections
Power of Attorney (POA)
Transparent transaction records
We specialize in assisting overseas clients securely.
11. What documents should I receive after payment?
Depending on the transaction, you may receive:
Receipt of payment
Deed of Assignment
Survey Plan
Contract of Sale
Allocation letter (for estates)
Originals should be properly executed and registered where required.
12. What is title perfection?
Title perfection refers to the process of registering and regularizing property documents with the government, including:
Governor’s Consent
Stamp duties
Registration at the Land Registry
This step ensures your ownership is legally recognized.
13. Can government reclaim land after purchase?
Yes, if the land is under overriding public interest or was improperly acquired. This is why buying verified land with proper documentation is crucial.
14. How long does property verification and documentation take?
Timelines vary depending on the location, title type, and government processes. It may take weeks to several months. Patience and proper guidance are key.
15. Why should I work with Gloiyk Properties & Investments?
We offer:
Verified property listings
Transparent processes
Professional due diligence support
Investor-focused advisory
Reliable after-sales assistance
Our goal is not just to sell property, but to protect your investment.
16. How do I get started with Gloiyk?
Simply contact us via our website, phone, or email. Our team will assess your needs, budget, and goals before recommending suitable options.
If you have questions not covered here, feel free to reach out. At Gloiyk Properties & Investments, informed clients make better decisions.