Thousands of Nigerians in the UK, the United States, Canada and elsewhere own property in Lagos. Selling it from abroad can feel daunting: who shows the property, who checks the buyer, and how does the money reach you safely? With the right preparation, you can sell without flying home. Here is how.
Step 1: Appoint someone you trust, in writing
Most overseas sellers act through a power of attorney granted to a trusted relative, friend or lawyer in Nigeria. For property, it should be specific about the property and the powers given, signed before a notary where you live and, where required, authenticated at a Nigerian embassy or high commission. A power of attorney over land in Lagos generally needs to be stamped and registered to be relied on. Your lawyer will advise on the exact form.
Step 2: Get your documents to Lagos
Make sure your representative or lawyer holds the title documents, survey plan, receipts and your identification. Missing originals are one of the biggest causes of delay. See the documents buyers will ask for.
Step 3: Price and present the property remotely
Ask your representative to check the condition of the property and arrange good photos. Compare prices on our area pages, or read how to work out what your property is worth.
Step 4: Let a reviewed platform find and screen buyers
On Propslisting, our team reviews your listing, handles enquiries and passes serious buyers on, so you are not answering calls across time zones. We arrange inspections with your representative, and you can choose a private listing if you prefer the property not to appear online.
Step 5: Complete the sale safely
- Agree the price and terms in writing through lawyers.
- Insist that payment goes by bank transfer into your own account, never in cash and never to a third party.
- Sign the Deed of Assignment yourself or through your registered attorney.
- Keep copies of every document and receipt for your tax records in Nigeria and in your country of residence.
Protecting yourself from fraud
Absent owners are a target for fraudsters who try to sell property they do not own. Keep your documents secure, check on the property regularly, and be wary of anyone who pressures you to sign quickly or pay fees upfront. Verify every party, including any agent.
Tax
From 2026, gains made by individuals on property in Nigeria are taxed at personal income tax rates, and your country of residence may tax the gain too. Speak to a tax adviser in both countries. See the costs of selling property in Lagos.
List your property free on Propslisting
Selling from abroad? List your property free on Propslisting. We screen buyers, coordinate inspections with your representative and keep you updated on WhatsApp. You pay 5% only when the sale completes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell my property in Nigeria while living abroad?
Yes. Most overseas owners sell through a power of attorney granted to a trusted person or lawyer in Nigeria, with a platform or agent finding and screening buyers.
Does a power of attorney need to be registered in Lagos?
A power of attorney over land in Lagos generally needs to be stamped and registered to be relied on. Your lawyer will advise on the correct form and process.
How do I receive payment safely from abroad?
Insist on bank transfer into your own account, through a documented sale handled by lawyers. Never accept cash or payment to a third party.
Will I pay tax in Nigeria and abroad?
Possibly both. Nigeria taxes individuals’ gains at personal income tax rates from 2026, and your country of residence may tax the gain too. Take advice in both.
