Finding the right house to rent in Nigeria can feel like a full-time job. From scanning endless listings to visiting apartments after work hours, it can get exhausting. But once you finally find a place that feels like home, another challenge begins: negotiating the rent. For many Nigerians, this is where the stress really kicks in. But here’s the good news — with the right approach, you can actually save a decent amount of money when getting a house for rent in Nigeria.
Let me show you how.
Understand the Market Before You Talk Money
Imagine you’ve just seen a house for rent in Nigeria that looks like a dream. It has everything — good water supply, a working generator, stable electricity, and it’s close to your office. But when you hear the rent, it’s way above your budget.
Before you walk away or agree to pay blindly, you need to understand the market rate in that area. Here’s how:
- Do a price comparison. Check platforms like Everything Property, social media groups, and property listing sites to compare prices for similar houses in that location.
- Ask locals. Talk to friends or family who live in the area to find out what they pay.
- Know the season. Prices can be higher during peak moving periods like January or September.
When you have this knowledge, it’s easier to negotiate with confidence.
Ask the Right Questions and Use Timing to Your Advantage
Some agents or landlords expect you to bargain — it’s part of the process. But the trick is knowing how to start the conversation.
Here are some smart questions to ask:
- “Has the house been vacant for long?” – If it has, the landlord may be more willing to offer a discount just to get a tenant.
- “What does the rent cover?” – Sometimes rent includes waste disposal, security, or even water. Clarify this before you agree.
- “Is there room for negotiation?” – It’s a simple question, but it opens the door.
Also, use timing to your advantage:
- Weekdays are better. Landlords are more likely to be relaxed and open to negotiation during the week.
- End of the month. They might want to fill the property quickly to avoid losing another month of rent.
Remember, even saving N50,000 on rent adds up over a year.
Be Polite, Professional, But Firm
Negotiating doesn’t mean being rude or too aggressive. In fact, being polite and respectful can go a long way.
Picture this: You meet the landlord in person. You thank them for showing you the property and you mention how much you like it. Then you say, “I’m really interested, but the rent is a bit above my budget. Would you consider NX instead?”
By showing genuine interest, you’re also showing that you’re a serious tenant.
Here are a few things you can do to improve your chances:
- Offer to pay multiple months upfront. Some landlords love this.
- Promise prompt payment and good maintenance. Landlords like reliable tenants.
- Mention your clean track record. If you’ve rented before, that’s a bonus.
Even if the landlord says no to reducing the rent, they may agree to other things like waiving agency or caution fees.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While trying to get a house for rent in Nigeria, here are some mistakes that could cost you more in the long run:
- Not reading the tenancy agreement carefully. Always check for hidden fees or maintenance responsibilities.
- Agreeing to a price under pressure. Take your time and don’t rush.
- Paying before verifying ownership. Always confirm that the landlord or agent is legitimate before handing over cash.
Negotiating isn’t just about saving money — it’s about making sure you’re getting value for what you’re paying for.
Quick Tips That Work
Let’s wrap up with a few actionable tips that can save you real money:
- Always carry cash or proof of funds when negotiating — it shows you’re serious.
- If the landlord refuses to lower rent, ask for improvements (e.g., new paint, fixing plumbing).
- Let them know you’re considering other properties — it may push them to make you an offer.
- Have a friend who’s good at bargaining? Bring them along.
Final Thoughts
House hunting in Nigeria can be tough, especially when you’re trying to balance location, budget, and comfort. But learning to negotiate is a powerful skill that could save you thousands every year. It takes a bit of confidence, good timing, and the right information.
So, next time you’re searching for a house for rent in Nigeria, walk in with your head held high and be ready to talk numbers.