Fake property agents don’t look suspicious. They dress well, speak confidently, and often sound more convincing than legitimate ones.
That’s why every year, hundreds of Nigerians lose millions of naira to land and property scams, especially in high-growth cities like Port Harcourt, Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu.
And the worst part? Many victims realise the fraud too late, after their “agent” has disappeared with the money.
If you’re planning to buy land or a house in Nigeria, this guide will show you exactly how to identify fake property agents before they identify you as their next target.
Unclear or Hidden Property Documents
The first and loudest red flag: vague documentation.
A fake agent will dodge every question about the property’s papers.
They’ll say things like:
“The document is not with me right now.”
“The owner traveled.”
“We’ll bring it on inspection day.”
Authentic property professionals never hide documents.
They understand that property sales require transparency and verification.
When an agent hesitates to show you the Survey Plan, Deed of Assignment, C of O, or Layout Approval, pause the process immediately.
Every real agent should proudly present these documents for you and your lawyer to inspect.
Because in real estate, clarity is confidence.
Invisible or Unavailable Property Owners
A legitimate property transaction must lead back to a real, identifiable owner.
Fake agents avoid this step because their properties often don’t exist, or they’re selling land they have no authority over.
If you ever hear:
“The owner doesn’t like meeting clients.”
“He’s abroad, but I’m handling everything.”
“You don’t need to see the owner; trust me.”
That’s your cue to walk away.
A genuine agent will always connect you with the actual landowner or developer before you make a payment.
Anything less is a setup.
Pressure to Pay Immediately
This is the classic scammer’s tool: urgency.
They’ll tell you,
“Someone else is about to pay this evening.”
“If you don’t send money now, you’ll lose the deal.”
Pressure is their psychological weapon to stop you from doing due diligence.
Real estate is not a race.
No legitimate property will vanish overnight.
A trusted agent will give you ample time to verify the documents, inspect the site, and consult your lawyer before making payment.
Any transaction that doesn’t allow due diligence is not a deal; it’s a danger.
No Proper Property Inspection
Another giveaway: vague or incomplete inspection.
Some fake agents point at random land, half-built houses, or empty spaces and claim ownership.
They’ll say, “That’s the plot,” but refuse to take you there physically.
They’ll avoid giving you clear boundaries or showing real landmarks.
Authentic Realtors, on the other hand, insist that you inspect the exact property you’re paying for.
If it’s a house, you’ll walk in and check the rooms, plumbing, and structure.
If it’s land, they’ll show you clear boundary markings, neighbouring plots, and physical coordinates.
Transparency during inspection is what separates professionals from pretenders.
Improper Receipts and Documentation After Payment
This is where most victims realise too late that something is wrong.
Fake agents issue handwritten receipts, unsigned letters, or generic acknowledgements that mean nothing in court.
If the receipt doesn’t contain:
The name and signature of the seller,
The exact property location and size,
And the official company stamp or logo,
…then it’s not a valid receipt.
Legitimate Realtors issue official receipts, draft Deeds of Assignment, and ensure that all documentation is verified and registered.
If the paperwork feels rushed or incomplete, don’t just pause run.
Final Thoughts: How to Protect Yourself in Property Transactions
Real estate isn’t a gamble; it’s a structured investment.
Always insist on:
Verified documents,
Transparent processes,
Site inspection,
Lawyer involvement, and
A reputable developer or real estate company.
Before you buy, ask questions.
If anything feels off, it probably is.
At Win Realty, we believe property transactions should be safe, verifiable, and transparent.
That’s why every client receives proper documentation, verified titles, and guided inspections.
So if you’re ready to buy land or a house in Port Harcourt or any other city, book a free inspection with us today.
We’ll help you buy the right property the right way and ensure your money builds wealth, not regret.
