When it comes to real estate, understanding land sizes is crucial, especially in Nigeria where land measurement units can be quite unique. Whether you’re looking for a plot of land for sale or simply want to understand the basics, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information.
What exactly is a plot of land?
In Nigeria, the standard measurement for land is in plots.
A plot of land is a defined piece of land that is typically marked for a specific purpose, such as building a home, commercial building, or for agricultural use. People often consider it a parcel of real property with clear boundaries. The size and shape of a plot can vary, but it is usually a smaller, well-defined area compared to larger tracts of land. . In Nigeria, the standard size of a plot is typically 100 feet by 50 feet (30 meters by 15 meters), which is approximately 460 square meters
Measuring Land in Nigeria
In Nigeria, people measure land using various units, including acres, hectares, and square meters. Anyone involved in real estate transactions must understand these units.
Acre: An acre of land has a fixed size anywhere in the world. An acre is a common unit of measurement in Nigeria, equivalent to 4,046 square meters or 43,560 square feet. It is roughly the size of a standard football field. For a plot size of 50 x 100, an acre would contain 8 and half plots.
Hectare: Just like the acre, the size of a hectare is fixed. A hectare contains about 2.5 acres, and roughly 15 plots of 60 x 120 land. A hectare is 100m x 100m = 10,000sqm. It is commonly used for larger plots of land.
Square Meters: This is the most straightforward unit of measurement, representing the area of a square with sides of one meter each. It is often used for smaller plots of land. Sellers in Nigeria typically measure most plots of land in square meters.
Appropriate Land Sizes for Different Buildings
The size of land you need for building depends on 2 things:.
- The size of the building
- The location
When considering the type of building you want to construct, the size of the plot of land is a critical factor. Here are some general guidelines for different types of buildings in Nigeria:
Duplex: A duplex typically requires a plot of land measuring at least 450 square meters. This allows for sufficient space for the building and a small compound.
Bungalow: For a bungalow, a plot of land of about 300 to 450 square meters is usually adequate.
Flat: Building a block of flats may require a larger plot. Experts recommend 600 to 900 square meters to allow for sufficient parking space, setbacks, and ventilation for all the flats.
Multi-Storey Building: For multi-storey buildings, especially those with commercial purposes, experts recommend a plot of land of at least 1,000 square meters. However, with a good architectural plan, you might be able to squeeze a 4 bedroom duplex into a 300sqm land.
Other Types of Buildings: For specialized buildings like schools, hospitals, or shopping complexes, the required land size can vary significantly based on the specific needs and regulations.
In conclusion, always verify the land size and work with certified surveyors or real estate companies for accuracy. Understanding land measurements like acres and plots in Nigeria is crucial for informed investment decisions. Real estate can secure your financial future, and it starts with knowing the basics of land measurement.
Additionally, familiarize yourself with the different measurement units used in the area where you are. Understanding plots, acres, and hectares helps you make informed decisions and navigate dealings confidently.
