Sometimes the house looks beautiful in pictures, but after moving in, reality starts showing:

• Poor electricity

• Flooding

• Bad water

• Security problems

• Crazy transport costs

Before paying for any apartment in Lagos, here are important things you should check carefully:

1. Check the electricity situation first

Don’t just ask:

“Is there light?”

Ask:

• How many hours daily?

• Is it prepaid or estimated billing?

• Is the transformer stable?

• Do they contribute for diesel or repairs often?

Electricity can affect your comfort and monthly expenses heavily.

2. Visit during rainfall if possible

Some areas flood badly during rainy season.

A dry road today can become a river tomorrow.

Check:

• Drainage system

• Waterlogged streets

• Accessibility during rain

3. Test the water

Water problems frustrate many tenants.

Check:

• Is the water clean?

• Is it salty?

• Is the supply regular?

• Is there a working borehole?

4. Understand all hidden charges

Some apartments come with extra costs like:

• Security fees

• Waste disposal

• Diesel contribution

• Service charges

• Agent and agreement fees

Always calculate the FULL cost before agreeing.

5. Check network and internet connection

Poor network can affect:

• Remote work

• Online business

• Banking

• Communication

Test your SIM network inside the apartment.

6. Observe the neighborhood

Spend time around the area if possible.

Check:

• Noise levels

• Security

• Traffic

• Nearby markets

• Accessibility at night

Sometimes the environment matters more than the actual apartment.

7. Ask existing tenants questions

Current tenants usually know the real truth.

Ask politely about:

• Landlord behavior

• Water issues

• Electricity problems

• Security concerns

8. Don’t rush because of pressure

Lagos house hunting can make people desperate.

But rushing into a bad apartment can cost you peace, money, and mental stress later.

A cheap house with constant problems may become more expensive in the long run.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced with house hunting in Nigeria? 👇🏠