Before you list a property online, it helps to know how property websites make their money, because that decides what you pay and what you get. This guide explains the four ways sites charge landlords, agents and developers in Nigeria. To see the sites themselves side by side, read property listing websites in Nigeria compared.
The four ways property websites charge
Free listing
You list at no cost and buyers or tenants contact you. The site earns elsewhere, for example from optional extras. Check what a free listing includes: how many photos, how long it stays up, and whether it appears in the same searches as paid ones. Listing on Cabans is free, with no commission.
Paying per listing
You pay each time you post a property, or buy a pack of listings. It suits a landlord with one property more than an agent with many; for an agent the cost grows with every property.
Paying to appear first
Many sites let you list free but charge to put your listing at the top of searches, add a badge or feature it on the home page. This is worth paying for only where the site already brings real searchers to your area.
Commission on the deal
A few services take a share of the rent or sale price when the deal completes. This is separate from what you agree with any estate agent. Ask before you list, and get it in writing.
How to tell if paying is worth it
- Search for your property type and area and see which sites appear on the first page.
- Start with free listings and count the serious enquiries each site sends you over a few weeks.
- Pay to promote only on a site that already sends you real enquiries for your area.
- Compare the cost with what one more month empty, or unsold, costs you.
Costs people forget
- Photos: good photos matter more than a paid placement. Pay for them before you pay for promotion.
- Your time: answering enquiries quickly is what turns views into viewings.
- Agent fees: if you use an agent, agree the fee and what it covers before they list. See estate agent fees in Nigeria.
Getting the most from a free listing
- Use at least 8 to 10 photos; listings with strong photos get many more enquiries.
- State the price, the area and the move-in cost clearly; vague listings get fewer calls.
- Update your listing regularly; active listings rank higher in on-site search.
- Reply to enquiries within hours; serious searchers message several owners at once.
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Take the next step
Keep your research practical: search for property in Lagos, compare live options for land for sale in Lagos, or list your property on Cabans to reach active buyers and renters.
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