Introduction

Every day, people are buying land.

Some celebrate ownership, others discover too late, that they bought into regret.

The difference?

One simple question.

Before you buy land, there’s a question that separates wise investors from emotional spenders and asking it could save you from losing millions or wasting years of effort.

The Question You Must Ask

“What’s my purpose for buying this land?”

Sounds simple, right?

But this single question determines everything; location, cost, timing, and even whether it’s a good deal or a bad trap.

1. Are You Buying for Living, Investment, or Speculation?

Your purpose defines your strategy.

 If you’re buying to live, focus on accessibility — proximity to work, good roads, schools, security, and water.

 If you’re buying to invest, location growth and demand matter most. Look for developing areas, upcoming projects, and new infrastructure.

 If you’re buying to speculate (hold and resell later), choose land near expansion zones, highways, or new estates.

When you don’t know your purpose, you’ll end up with land that looks good on paper but useless to your goals.

2. Understand What You’re Really Paying For

Many people think they’re buying “land,” but they’re actually buying potential.

A plot inside a fast-growing area can triple in value in 3–5 years.

But a cheap bush plot that no one wants may never grow in price.

Always research:

• What’s developing around the area?

• Who else is buying there?

• Are government projects or estates springing up nearby?

Smart investors buy future value, not just empty space.

3. Verify Before You Pay

Never let excitement rush your decision.

Before paying for any land in Nigeria:

• Conduct a land search at the ministry to confirm ownership and title.

• Hire a surveyor to inspect the land physically.

• Confirm access roads and nearby development.

• Avoid “village lands” without documents, unless you understand the risks.

Remember: real estate is real only when the documents are real.

4. Ask: Can I Afford to Develop It Soon?

A common mistake is buying land and abandoning it for years.

Unused land attracts encroachment, disputes, or even government acquisition.

If you can’t build yet, at least fence and secure your property.

You can even lease it for farming or car-parking temporarily to keep it active.

5. Don’t Buy Just Because Others Are Buying

Many people buy land because “everyone is rushing there.”

But trends can be traps.

The question remains:

Does this land align with my long-term vision?

Buy with logic, not emotion.

Final Thoughts

Before you buy land, slow down and ask yourself this one question:

 “What’s my purpose for buying this land?”

When your purpose is clear, your decisions become wise — and your investment becomes powerful.

Because in real estate, the smart ones don’t just buy land…

They buy the future they see in it.