Finding a good home in Nigeria often comes down to one person: the agent who helps you search. A great agent can save you time, money and problem. A bad one can make house hunting stressful, expensive, and frustrating.

Whether you’re searching in Abuja or Lagos, this short guide shows practical steps to find a reliable agent, what to watch out for, and how to protect yourself.

Why the right agent matters

Agents don’t just show houses. They shape your whole experience: the listings you see, the inspections you take, how long it takes to close, and whether you pay too much.

In big cities, Lekki, Ikoyi, Wuse, Garki, markets move fast, so working with someone who knows the neighbourhood and respects your budget is key.

Simple checklist: find the right agent in 5 steps

1. Start local and specific. If you want Lekki Phase 1 or Wuse Zone 2, search for agents who say they work those exact neighbourhoods. Generalists waste time.
2. Check basic credibility. Ask for a business phone, company name, office address, and verifiable listings. If an agent only gives social DMs, be cautious.
3. Ask for recent references or examples. A good agent can point to recent deals or client feedback (even basic WhatsApp testimonials).
4. Compare multiple agents. Don’t sign up to the first number you get. Meet 2–3 agents who actually listened and sent options that match your brief.
5. Protect time & money. Insist on clear inspection details (exact address, appointment time). If an agent charges inspection fees, ask for a simple receipt and what it covers.

Questions to ask every agent

• Which neighbourhoods do you work in every week?
• How many clients have you helped find homes in the last 3 months?
• Can you send the exact listing I’ll inspect (address + pictures) before I travel?
• Do you charge inspection fees? If yes, why and how are they refunded if the listing isn’t suitable?
• Do you handle negotiations or only introduce me to landlords? (Get clarity on role.)

Red flags to watch out for

Some behaviours are warning signs. If you see any of these, pause:

• Repeatedly sending different properties at the inspection (not the one you requested).
• Pressure to “make a decision now” without giving you time to check details.
• No verifiable phone number or office address.
• Unwilling to share references or past client contacts.
• Demanding large cash up-front without a clear written reason.

How to use public signals and avoid guesswork

Don’t rely on a single platform. Cross-check the agent’s name or phone on:

• Google Business listing (if any)
• Facebook Page (business pages are different from personal profiles)
• Popular property sites (compare listing details)
• WhatsApp or SMS conversations (save them for reference)

Public ratings help, but treat them as one input. Look for consistent, recent activity rather than a single glowing review from years ago.

Inspection day: make it worth your time

Planning is everything. Before you go:

• Confirm the exact address and pictures by message.
• Agree on a time window and meeting point.
• Bring an ID and a notepad, note condition, repairs, and costs.
• Ask about utilities, security, and any landlord rules.
• Take photos or short videos for reference.

How Benuca platform helps (without acting as an agent)

If you want to shorten this checklist, we connect you with agents who share clear listings and respect this process.

We don’t negotiate deals or represent you, we simply help you begin with better options and fewer unknowns. That means less wasted transport, fewer surprise inspections, and a higher chance you’ll find a place that fits.

Affordable support options (if you want guided help)

For busy people or those relocating, consider a low-cost support package: personalized matching to verified agents, area research (safety, pricing), and a short checklist for inspection. This support is advisory, agents still handle property access and negotiations.

Local tips: Abuja & Lagos

Abuja: Security and access are big factors, always ask about gate systems and neighbourhood safety. Ask agents for insights on monthly service charges and estate management where applicable.
Lagos: Traffic affects inspection planning. Ask agents for nearby alternatives to avoid long commutes, and confirm if the rent quoted includes service charges or not.

Wrapping up

House hunting in Nigeria doesn’t need to be chaotic. A dependable agent will listen, show you real options, and respect your process.

If you want help finding trusted agents in Abuja or Lagos, get matched with verified professionals who follow the approach above. We’re here to reduce the stress and help you find a home that fits your life.