Yes, it is possible to buy land in Uyo or anywhere in Akwa Ibom State without physical inspection. You do not need to be physically present to see the land you are purchasing before purchasing it. Distance should not be a barrier stopping you from owning your dream property in Uyo or anywhere in Akwa Ibom State. The world is now a global village and you can buy land remotely or online. However, it is imperative that you engage the services of a trusted Real Estate Attorney versed with real estate practice in that area to handle the tranaction on your behalf. When you engage the services of a trusted Real Estate Attorney, you can buy land in Uyo without needing to see it or go there physically after you must have seen it online. Below are the steps one can take to buy land through a Real Estate Attorney.
The Process of Buying Land Through a Real Estate Attorney
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- Identify the Land: To buy land remotely, it is expected that you search for the land from real estate platforms online. There are some real estate platforms that post genuine landed properties, subject to phyiscal verification. Examples of such platforms are nigeriapropertycentre, propertypro, privatepropertynigeria amongst others. You can also engage the services of a local agent or a Real Estate Attorney to carry out the search on your behalf while providing you with periodic updates on the search.
- Engage a Lawyer: Once you’ve searched and identified a plot of land you’re interested in, the very next step should be to engage a Competent real estate Attorney. Do not proceed with any payments or agreements without legal counsel. Discuss your intentions, budget, and the specifics of the land with your lawyer.
- Due Diligence and Verification (The Lawyer’s Core Function): Your lawyer will meticulously verify the title documents to determine its authenticity. These documents may include the Certificate of Occupancy, Deed of Assignment, Power of Attorney, Survey plan, certificate of deposit, Government Allocation Letter, etc. Your lawyer will visit the relevant Land Registry in the State where the land is located to verify that the land is free from encumbrances (e.g., mortgages, liens, existing disputes), confirm the legitimacy of the title documents and also ensure that the land is not under government acquisition. It is also your lawyer’s duty to recommend an independent licensed surveyor to map out the land and confirm it matches the survey plan. Your lawyer is also expected to investigate the property’s history, speak to community leaders/neigbours, and confirm that there are no ongoing disputes or other claims.
- Negotiation and Agreement: Once due diligence is satisfactory, you are now ready to buy land in Uyo. Your lawyer can assist in negotiating the purchase price and terms with the seller. Your lawyer will then draft a Contract of Sale if necessary and also draft the title agreement. We had treated the meaning and purpose of a contract of sale here.
- Payment for the Land: At this point, it is safe to pay for the land based on the terms of the contract of sale, if there was any or make full payment for the land to the seller.
- Execution of the title document: The title document is the legal document that formally transfers ownership from the seller to the buyer. Your lawyer will draft this document, and both parties (seller and buyer) must sign it in the presence of witnesses. This is usually prepared by the buyer’s lawyer.
- Registration of Land: This is a crucial step to perfect your title and gain legal backing for your ownership. It is advisable that you register your land with the Lands Registry after purchase.
- Taking Physical Possession: After all legal formalities are completed, you can take physical possession of the land. Your lawyer can advise on the best practices for securing the land, especially if you don’t intend to commence development immediately.
Important Considerations:
- Don’t rely solely on online information: While online resources can provide general guidance, the specifics of land transactions can vary by state in Nigeria. Always consult with a local real estate Attorney.
- Insist on physical verification: If you cannot physically inspect the land owing to distance, ensure that a trusted Real Estate Attorney or a trusted Agent physically inspects the land before purchase.
- Maintain clear communication: Ensure open and clear communication with your lawyer throughout the entire process.
By engaging a qualified real estate Attorney, you significantly reduce the risks associated with land acquisition in Uyo, Nigeria or anywhere in Akwa Ibom State and ensure a secure and legally recognized ownership of your property.
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