Common Real Estate Terms in Nigeria and What They Really Mean
If you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate in Nigeria, you’ve probably come across terms like C of O, serviced plot, off-plan, allocation letter, gazette, or deed of assignment. These terms are widely used in the property market, but for many people — especially first-time buyers — they can be confusing or even misleading.
This guide will help you understand the most commonly used real estate terms in Nigeria, their real meanings, and what you should look out for when you hear them in property listings or from agents.
Why You Should Understand Real Estate Jargon
In Nigeria’s real estate market, being familiar with basic industry language is not just about sounding smart — it’s about making informed decisions and protecting your investment.
A misunderstanding of property terms can lead to:
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Overpaying for a property
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Buying land with unclear or fake title
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Getting misled by marketers or agents
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Delays or denial of building permits
Let’s break down the essential terms you’ll encounter.
1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Meaning:
A legal document issued by the state government that proves a person or organization owns a piece of land and has the right to occupy it.
Why it matters:
C of O is one of the most secure titles in Nigeria. It shows that the land is officially allocated by the government and not under acquisition.
2. Deed of Assignment
Meaning:
A legal document that transfers ownership of land or property from the seller to the buyer.
Why it matters:
It must be signed by both parties and registered with the state land registry. A property without a Deed of Assignment is legally risky.
3. Excision/Gazette
Excision:
This is a process where the government releases a portion of land to the original landowners (usually indigenous communities) for legal private use.
Gazette:
An official publication that documents excised land. A gazetted land is considered safe to buy if properly documented.
4. Survey Plan
Meaning:
A technical drawing that shows the exact size, location, and coordinates of a piece of land.
Why it matters:
Helps confirm that the land is not under government acquisition, and that the size you’re buying is accurate.
5. Allocation Letter
Meaning:
A letter issued by an estate developer or government authority showing that a specific plot has been allocated to a buyer.
Why it matters:
It’s not proof of ownership, but it shows you’ve been assigned a specific plot within an estate layout.
6. Registered Title
Meaning:
This means the land or property has been registered at the state land registry, giving it legal recognition.
Why it matters:
A registered property is easier to resell, mortgage, or transfer.
7. Global C of O vs Individual C of O
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Global C of O: A single Certificate of Occupancy covering a large area or estate.
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Individual C of O: A separate C of O for each plot or property within the estate.
Note: Buying into a development with a Global C of O is generally safe, but you should ensure the individual plot you’re buying is part of the approved layout.
8. Serviced Plot
Meaning:
A plot of land that comes with basic infrastructure such as:
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Internal roads
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Drainage system
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Electricity and water connections
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Perimeter fencing
Why it matters:
You pay a higher price for a serviced plot, but it saves you the cost and stress of developing infrastructure later.
9. Off-Plan Purchase
Meaning:
Buying a property (usually a house or apartment) before it is fully built, based on the developer’s design and proposal.
Pros:
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Often cheaper than completed properties
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Flexible payment plans
Cons:
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Delivery risk (if the developer fails to complete)
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Final construction may differ from the proposal
10. Land Banking
Meaning:
Buying land at a lower price in an undeveloped or developing area and holding it until it appreciates in value.
Why it matters:
It’s a popular investment strategy in Nigeria with high returns, especially around fast-growing cities like Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt.
11. Corner Piece Plot
Meaning:
A plot located at the intersection of two roads, offering multiple entry points and better ventilation.
Why it matters:
Usually more expensive than inner plots, and ideal for commercial or luxury residential buildings.
12. Documentation Fee / Development Levy
Meaning:
Additional charges paid to estate developers for processing documents or providing infrastructure.
Tip:
Ask for a clear breakdown of all hidden charges before making any payments.
13. Title Perfection
Meaning:
The legal process of registering and confirming your land title with the government.
Why it matters:
Without title perfection, your property ownership may not be recognized by the state, even if you’ve paid in full.
Conclusion: Speak the Real Estate Language with Confidence
Understanding these common real estate terms in Nigeria will help you navigate the property market like a pro. Whether you’re buying land, a home, or investing in real estate for the long term, knowledge of legal and technical terms ensures you’re not misled or shortchanged.
At Ambrose Homes, we make real estate simple, safe, and secure. Our team helps buyers understand property documents, verify titles, and buy legally approved land and homes in Abuja and other major cities.
📞 Call/WhatsApp: 0813 831 8431
📧 Email: ambrosehomesrealty@gmail.com