Relocating from one apartment or house to another is an inevitable part of life. At some point, we all find ourselves in need of a new living space. However, the decision to rent a new apartment should be well-informed and considerate of various factors beyond mere affordability.
In this article, we aim to enlighten you about the important things to consider when renting a house in Nigeria, aside from financial considerations.
The things to prioritize and consider when renting a house in Nigeria can vary significantly based on individual or family circumstances and preferences. It’s imperative to identify which factors resonate with your situation to make the most suitable choice for your new home.
Things to consider before renting a house in Nigeria
Trusted Agent
It is difficult to get a house in Lagos without an agent because they have the information you don’t have. More importantly, you must do the due diligence in vetting agents with whom you come in contact. Some clients are known to defraud their prospective and unsuspecting clients by taking them to a house and illegally collecting money from many people about the same house. Getting the legal person involved is important to help put the agents in check.
History of the House
Before deciding to pay for a house, research the house’s history. You must ensure the house is safe, well protected and secure, peaceful living, the house owner’s personality, the activities that occur there, commercial activities, etc. Activities such as late-night partying, shops, religious activities, etc., are allowed in some houses; make your findings and be sure you can stay in such places.
House Cost vs. Your Budget
One of the biggest factors to consider is the cost of the house compared to your budget. It is always advisable not to get an apartment that is not too expensive and not more than your 3 months salary, maximum of 4 months salary. You must consider other costs such as agent fees and extra charges. Compare these to your salary and see if the house is worth renting. It’s often advised to live below one’s earnings. Most importantly, ensure the house isn’t an old house or one which isn’t well maintained as these may be liable to collapse. Avoid houses with too much damage as they will incur more cost to you. More so, find out if the house is in a location threatening future government sanctions – houses under power lines, houses obstructing drainage flow, etc.
Ability to renew Rent
Getting a house and paying your first rent isn’t the most important thing when getting a house, but the ability to renew the rent subsequently. It isn’t right to be chased out of a house due to the inability to pay rent just a year after moving in.
Understand the Terms of Agreement
Read and understand the terms and agreement drafted by the landlord before signing it. Some houses in Lagos don’t allow the use of certain facilities like generators, AC, etc. You might want to get your lawyer involved before signing any form of agreement If you don’t feel comfortable with anything stated in the agreement. Also, you can always call the landlord’s attention and thrash out the legal conditions given in the drafted agreement document.
Drainage & Possibility of Flood
It is often said that the best time to house hunt in Nigeria is during the rainy season. This is because many places in Nigeria have been ravaged by floods in the rainy season, no thanks to a poor drainage system. Many homes become destroyed, making many people displaced. This devastating effect of flood often leaves an unforgettable memory.
Unsettled Power Bills
When house searching, one of the important things to ask is the power bill history. Many houses in Nigeria are entangled in electricity debt; sadly, many house owners won’t reveal it. One way to get this information is through a trusted agent or liaising with residents in the same house who can open up to you. Therefore, before you go on to pay for an apartment, always ask for the recent PHCN Utility Bills of the apartment. If the house owner won’t eventually reveal, it is a strong indicator that the house suffers from unsettled electricity bills.
Access to Major Road
Nothing beats a place of habitation that is close to major roads. It makes navigation and accessibility to such places very easy when one wants to transit. Living in areas connected to major roads is also good for security and emergencies.
Security
It isn’t wise to live in a place with a threat to one’s life and properties, not even in the current insecurity state of the country. Before deciding to rent in a particular location, ensure the community pays attention to security by engaging local vigilantes or professional security agencies. Certain areas in the country are known for notorious activities, and one must know this.
Service Charge
It should be a good practice to ask from the beginning the total amount of service charges and other charges you will be paying monthly or yearly if applicable. Some house owners are known to defraud their tenants by introducing illegal payments or charges after moving into the apartment. Asking from the beginning will save you a lot of headaches.
Conclusion
Renting a house in Nigeria should not be solely driven by financial considerations. To make a well-rounded decision, consider the factors that align with your unique needs and aspirations. Doing so can ensure that your new home enhances your quality of life and provides a comfortable and secure living environment.