Buying your first home is like entering a new relationship — you’re excited, nervous, and sometimes too blinded by love to see the red flags. You imagine yourself sipping tea on your balcony every morning, but if you’re not careful, you might end up sipping frustration instead.
So before you sign that dotted line and start planning your housewarming, let’s laugh (and learn) through some common mistakes first-time homebuyers make — and how you can avoid becoming a cautionary tale.
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1. Falling in Love Too Fast (Without Checking the Documents)
You walk into a house, and boom — you’re in love. The kitchen looks like something from Pinterest, and you can already picture your Instagram caption: *“Finally, my dream home 😍.”*
Hold up! Before you fall too deep, remember that real love is backed by **documents** — not décor.
Always ask for the **Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)**, **Deed of Assignment**, and **Building Plan Approval**. Then verify them at the *Ministry of Lands* or through a lawyer. Don’t just take the agent’s word for it.
A friend once said, “The agent told me the documents are in process.” I replied, “Bro, your relationship with that house might be in process too!”
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2. Ignoring Location (Because “It’s Cheap!”)
If the price sounds too good to be true, it probably means your “affordable home” is three villages away from civilization. Lagos traffic alone will make you question your life choices.
Always consider **proximity** to work, schools, hospitals, and access roads. Don’t buy a house where Google Maps gives up trying to find it. A house may be cheap, but if you’ll spend half your life on the road, you’re not saving money — you’re spending it on fuel, stress, and prayers.
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3. Failing to Inspect the Property Properly
Some people buy homes after only seeing pictures online. My dear, don’t let Instagram filters deceive you! That “sea-view apartment” might actually overlook a drainage canal.
Before making payment, **visit the property**. Check the structure, the environment, drainage, and even the neighborhood at night. What looks peaceful in the day may turn into “Owambe Central” by evening.
One client once told me, “The area was quiet when I inspected it.” I asked, “Was it a Sunday morning?”
4. Not Setting a Realistic Budget
Buying a house isn’t just about paying the purchase price. You’ll need money for legal fees, documentation, agency commission, and maybe even renovations. Don’t empty your account on the purchase and then end up eating indomie on the floor for the next six months.
Create a realistic budget that includes all **extra costs**. Remember: broke but housed is not the dream.
5. Skipping Professional Help (Because ‘My Cousin Knows One Agent’)
Your cousin’s friend’s uncle who “does real estate” may mean well, but real estate is not vibes and connections — it’s paperwork, due diligence, and verification.
Hire a **certified agent** or **real estate company** that understands the market. They’ll help you avoid scams, negotiate better prices, and handle documentation professionally. Think of them as your GPS — without them, you might get lost in property drama.
6. Forgetting to Think Long-Term
Some buyers choose homes based only on today’s needs. But what about the next five years? Will the area develop? Will your family outgrow the space? Will the property appreciate in value?
A smart buyer thinks long-term — buy a property that fits not just your current lifestyle, but your future goals.
7. Paying Without Legal Backing
This one deserves a drum roll — never pay for any property without a proper sales agreement and receipt. If anyone says, “Let’s do gentleman’s agreement,” politely say, “My lawyer is the gentleman in this conversation.”
Your money deserves legal protection. Always document everything, even if the seller is your pastor’s brother’s best friend.
Final Thoughts
Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones. It’s exciting, yes, but it also requires wisdom, patience, and a little bit of skepticism. Don’t rush the process — take your time, verify everything, and seek professional guidance.
Because in Lagos real estate, if you snooze, you might not just lose — you might cry!
Before you buy your “dream home,” let’s make sure it’s not a dream that will turn into a nightmare! Call or WhatsApp us on +2348116069643— we’ll help you find a genuine property that won’t make you scream, “They’ve collected my money!”
Your dream house awaits — and this time, it’s 100% real!