Finding a good and affordable apartment in Nigeria can feel like searching for a hidden oasis in the desert. But fear not, in this article, I'm going to share with you tips for securing a cheap apartment in Lagos, Nigeria.
With some resourcefulness and strategic planning, you can unearth your ideal living space without breaking the bank. However, there are some major misconception about apartments in Lagos you need to be aware of.
1. The fact that an apartment is costly doesn't means that it's good or perfect you. But the bad part of it is that many apartment hunters are still being deceived by this misconception. Although, in most cases and depending on your standard of living, expensive apartment can be the right choice for you. But, it also important to consider some factors such as location of work, apartment amenities and security of the environment.
2. In addition, many people think that hunting for cheap apartment in Lagos is hard. Meanwhile, you have to understand that finding a perfect, cheap and good apartment is not hard. All you need to do is give it time, be clear-minded and don't be deceived by what house agents say.
However, the most important thing you need to consider when searching for an apartment in Lagos is "Yearly Rent's Payment." Hence, the apartment you must search for must be the one within your financial capacity. That's, how much you have in terms of paying your yearly rent.
Another thing you need to consider before getting an apartment in Lagos is location of your workspace. Imagine a banker working in Lagos-Island and get an apartment in Ikeja because it's cheap. Tell me, would his salary be enough to cater for the transportation fair per month?
Furthermore, you have to consider your "Budget." Start by honestly assessing your financial situation. How much rent can you comfortably afford without straining your budget? Don't forget to factor in utilities, transportation, and other living expenses.
Yes! I have talked about the misconceptions you need to take off from your mind and some major considerations you need to consider before opting for cheap apartment in Lagos-Nigeria. Now, let's dive into "how" and "where" to get a cheap apart in Nigeria.
Tips to get Cheap Apartment in Lagos
Follow these steps to get affordable apartment in Lagos Nigeria:
1. Explore
Let me call it hunt! This is the first thing to do when searching for cheap apartments in Lagos. Don't limit yourself to popular rental websites or agencies. Look for listings directly from landlords on local notice boards, community groups, or social media platforms.
For instance, there are so many Facebook group and page that focus mainly on "Houses & Apartments For Rent in Lagos State." More so, Jiji is another rental platform that accommodate "Apartments for Rent in Lagos."
Furthermore, you can explore neighborhoods on the cusp of development. While they might lack established amenities, rents tend to be lower, and you might get cheap apartments there before price rates hike.
2. Negotiate Like a Pro
Especially in areas with high vacancy rates, landlords might be open to negotiating rent. If you offer a longer lease or upfront payment, don't be afraid to negotiate. More so, research average rents in the area to build your case.
In addition, you can consider offering alternative payment terms or agreeing to minor repairs yourself in exchange for a lower rent. Remember, a win-win negotiation benefits everyone, including the house owner.
3. Embrace Alternatives
If you don't mind, you can share a spacious apartment with like-minded individuals to split costs and enjoy communal living. It's otherwise known as "Co-Living." You can also consider furnished studios or apartments, especially if you value convenience and are willing to pay a slight premium for included amenities.
4. House-setting
Another way to get cheap apartment in Lagos is looking after someone's property while they're away in exchange for free or discounted rent. It's a win-win for both parties. You can also consider swapping homes with someone in another city or town for a unique and budget-friendly travel experience.
Final words
In conclusion, always prioritize your safety during apartment viewings. Meet in public places during daylight hours and inform someone about your plans. In addition, beware of scams. You have to be wary of listings that seem too good to be true and never send money without a signed contract and proper verification.
It's also important to note that finding the perfect apartment takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged; keep searching, and your ideal haven awaits!
By following these tips and staying focused on your needs and budget, you'll be well on your way to finding your affordable dream apartment in Nigeria. Remember, a little effort and resourcefulness can go a long way in securing your comfortable and happy haven.