Seven questions to ask before any inspection fee or deposit
An inspection fee or deposit is the usual exit point for your money. These questions take three minutes and filter out almost every bad actor before cash is mentioned.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Property transfers in Nigeria involve state-level land registry process — engage a qualified property lawyer for your specific transaction.
1. What is the full legal name of the owner or agency?
You need a name that appears on documents and bank accounts. Self-described titles — "the caretaker", "a friend of the owner" — are not names.
2. Can I see the title document number before I come?
A genuine seller has nothing to lose by sharing a registration number. Reluctance here predicts everything that follows.
3. Why is this price below the area average?
There are good answers (urgency, dated interiors) and bad ones (the flat does not exist). If they cannot explain the discount, you are the discount.
4. Who exactly receives the payment, and what is their account name?
The account name should match the verified identity chain. "Pay into my cousin's account" ends the conversation.
5. May I bring someone to the viewing?
Legitimate agents welcome witnesses. Anyone who insists you come alone is scripting the encounter.
6. What happens to my fee if the property is not as described?
The answer tells you whether you are entering a transaction or a trap. Get it in writing.
7. Is this listing on a verified platform?
Xavorian listings pass identity, bank-match, document and automated-verification gates before going live. When the answer is yes, most of the questions above are already answered for you.
Key takeaways
- Always get the legal name behind the property
- Ask for the title registration number before visiting
- The account name must match the verified identity chain
- Get refund terms in writing before any fee moves