Knowing Genuine Real Estate Agent

 📢 "Not every 'agent' is genuine..."

Whether you're buying, selling, renting, or managing property portfolio, you deserve peace of mind.

But in this industry, not everyone who calls themselves an “agent” is genuine. Some are trustworthy professionals… but others are just looking to cash out on your ignorance.

So how do you tell the difference?

Here are 5 smart ways to know a genuine real estate agent in Nigeria — no matter what side of the deal you're on:

✅ 1. Professional Affiliation & Registration

A real agent is not operating in isolation.

They should be registered or working under a licensed Estate Surveyor and Valuer (ESV).

🧾 Whether you're buying, selling, or renting—ask: “Which firm are you attached to? Are you registered with NIESV?”

🔎 If they hesitate or say 'I’m a freelancer' without proof—watch out!!!

✅ 2. Known Office or Business Address

Professionals are traceable. They operate from a known office 🏢 or under a licensed estate firm. ⚠ If all meetings happen under trees, in beer parlours, or on the roadside—red flag!!!

✅ 3. Proper Documentation Handling

Whether you're a landlord, tenant, buyer, or seller—the agent should present and explain:

1. Title documents

2. Identification of property owners

3. Tenancy agreements

4. Payment receipts

📁 Fake agents always “go and come back” when you ask for documents.

✅ 4. Transparent Fees and Terms

Real agents explain their commission structure before any transaction.

For example:

Commission on rent (legally not exceeding 10%

5-10% of price on sales/purchase transactions 

⚠ Beware of those asking for strange “mobilization fees” before showing property or proof of ownership.

✅ 5. Reputation and Track Record

Ask around. A good agent has references:

Past deals, Happy clients, A social media presence or company profile

🎯 No reputation = No transaction. Do your due diligence!!!

📌 Whether You're a:

🏠 Homebuyer – Don't lose your savings to fraud

🧑‍💼 Seller – Don’t let a fake agent devalue or misrepresent your property

🧍‍♂ Renter – Don’t pay into a ghost account and get locked out

🏘 Landlord – Ensure your rent is properly collected and managed

🏢 Investor – Always verify who’s handling your transactions

Ask questions. Verify identity. Demand professionalism.

🛡 When in doubt, speak to a Registered Estate Surveyor and Valuer. We are trained to protect your interest.