Selling your Nigerian property without an agent is legal, practical, and increasingly common at mid-market price points. This guide covers the full process — from title preparation through to legal completion.
Agent vs Private Sale
The key honest comparison: commission cost (5–10% of sale price saved with private sale), marketing reach (roughly equal if you list on 2–3 portals), legal burden (equal — both require a property lawyer), and time investment (private sale requires 5–15 hours/week during active marketing). Private sale is underutilised at mid-market (₦5m–₦80m) because sellers overestimate the agent’s unique marketing advantage.
Where to List
Cabans: free listing, direct buyer enquiries, no commission. PropertyPro.ng: highest-traffic portal; free standard listing, ₦5,000–₦15,000 for featured in competitive areas. Nigeria Property Centre: strong diaspora reach — include USD equivalent price. WhatsApp property groups: fastest route to local qualified buyers; 60–90-second video walkthrough is far more effective than still photos.
Key Legal Requirements
Whether you use an agent or not: C of O or Governor's Consent, Deed of Assignment, Survey Plan, Building Approval, Sale and Purchase Agreement drafted by your lawyer, Capital Gains Tax (10% on net gain), Stamp Duty (1.5%), and Land Registry/consent fees. A property lawyer is required regardless of agent involvement — this is the most important fact for private sellers to understand.