Teamwork Makes the Dream Work in Real Estate Investment
There’s a common mistake many first-time and even experienced investors make: trying to go solo in real estate. Someone once asked on one of my videos, “Can’t I just buy land without involving too many people?” And I told them, “Your real estate deal is only as good as your real estate link.”
Here’s the truth: real estate is not a one-man Mopol operation. To succeed, especially in a dynamic market like Lagos or anywhere else, you need a solid, trustworthy team behind you.
So, Who Should Be On Your Real Estate Investment Team?
- Your Realtor: The First Link That Determines Everything
Your realtor is your entry point into any deal. If they are credible, experienced, and professional, your transaction is already halfway safe. But if your realtor is driven by greed or lacks knowledge, you’re on a fast track to stress or even financial loss. Sadly, many realtors today prioritize commission over client satisfaction, and some developers exploit this greed. If you fall into the wrong hands, you might pay for land that’s not even legally available.
Choose a realtor who:
- Is transparent with information.
- Provides verifiable documents.
- Has proven track records and testimonials.
- A Property Lawyer – Not Just Any Lawyer
It’s not enough to “have a lawyer.” Real estate is a technical field, and many general-practice lawyers are not equipped to handle the intricacies involved.
You need a property or real estate lawyer someone who understands commercial property laws, title verification, contracts, and government policies.
A good lawyer will:
- Spot red flags in documentation.
- Confirm land ownership and titles.
- Protect your interest before, during, and after transactions.
- A Highly Skilled Surveyor – Your Documentation Backbone
Surveying is not just “measuring land.” It’s the foundation of documentation, yet one of the most abused aspects of property investment.
Here’s an example:
A man hired a surveyor to map out his land. The surveyor either mistakenly or deliberately surveyed land that wasn’t his. He fenced the wrong land and traveled abroad. Years later, when trying to resell, the buyer’s due diligence revealed it was pipeline land. He lost the deal and had to demolish his fence.
In another case, a buyer was told the land had a gazette. But his surveyor, in collaboration with the omonile, faked the coordinates. Years later, it was discovered the land never had a gazette. The buyer lost millions.
A competent surveyor will:
- Accurately chart your land.
- Confirm government acquisition or excision status.
- Help ensure your title is processable and legitimate.
- The Other Professionals: Builders, Architects & Engineers
After buying, when it’s time to build, don’t cut corners. You need:
- Registered architects for planning and design.
- Structural engineers for safety.
- Town planners for approvals.
- Government regulatory approvals (LASPPPA, LABCA, etc.)
Skipping professionals because you want to “manage cost” can result in demolition notices or worse, a collapsed building.
What Should You Look For in Your Team?
Whether it’s your agent, lawyer, surveyor, or builder, prioritize these qualities:
- Honesty
- Reliability
- Patience
- Dedication
- Experience
- Trustworthiness
The real estate journey isn’t just about land or buildings it’s about the people behind your decisions. If they fail, your investment could collapse with them.
You wouldn’t perform surgery without a qualified doctor. So why invest millions without qualified professionals? Real estate is teamwork. And to win, you need the right players.
If you’re ready to build a winning team or need help assembling one, we are here to help. Let’s make your real estate dream work together.
