How I Managed to Pay Two Years’ Rent in Nigeria as a Full-Time Expat 🇳🇬

Breakdown of my YEARLY rent expenses as an expat who moved to Nigeria one year ago ~

I know you’re probably wondering how the hell I paid two years rent in advance (don’t worry we’ll get to that) 😂. Let’s clear up some other things first:

1. How did I find my apartment?
Initially, on Nigerian Property Center (through a bogus agent). After almost getting scammed I found the original property manager and reached out.

2. How long did the search process take?
It took me 3 months to find an apartment I liked. Once I did, moved in within a week.

3. How different would the price be today?
The housing market in Lagos is crazy right now. Finding fully furnished apartments in the inner city is not easy. Looking at 15m+ per year for a place this size today.

4. Why did I have to pay 2 years in advance?
Greedy landlords tbh. This is actually illegal, so don’t get tricked. Thankfully it worked out in my favor because I secured a good deal for 2 years.

5. Was it harder to get because you’re single?
Yes. If you’re unmarried (both men & women), Lagos makes it 10x harder for you to get a place of your own. Handily I had connections who wrote me letters of recommendation allowing me to get the place.

6. Why is your light bill so low?
I don’t have 24/7 light. I don’t use a generator. We use a Nepa meter split between all 6 of the units in my compound. (I think we’re on band B)

7. How safe is it?
Relatively safe. I live in a gated estate with code access.

8. How did you pay for 2 years rent in advance?
I didn’t. I paid one year and my mom helped me with the other. Shout out Momzy, 🫶🏾

So, do you think this reasonable to rent a fully furnished 3 bedroom condo in Lagos?

#MikainNigeria #expat #livingabroad #costofliving #rent #nigeria