When acquiring land or property in Nigeria—especially in growing cities like Ibadan—documentation is everything. Yet, many buyers confuse a Sales Agreement with a Land Agreement, using them interchangeably. While they are both critical legal documents, they serve different purposes in the land acquisition process.
In this article, we’ll clarify:
- ✅ The definition of each document
- ⚖️ The key differences
- 📌 Why you need both at the right stage
- 🏢 How Taiwo Salam & Co. Properties Ltd ensures you don’t miss a step
📝 What is a Sales Agreement?
A Sales Agreement is a preliminary contract between the buyer and the seller. It outlines the terms and conditions under which the property is being sold before the final documents are executed.
Key Features of a Sales Agreement:
- Identifies buyer and seller
- States purchase price and payment structure
- Describes the property (location, size)
- Includes clauses on default, refund, and obligations
- Signed by both parties and witnesses
🛑 It does not transfer ownership; it only expresses intent to sell and buy under specific terms.
📃 What is a Land Agreement?
A Land Agreement, often called a Deed of Assignment, is the final, conclusive document that transfers legal ownership of the land from the seller to the buyer.
Key Features of a Land Agreement:
- Legally hands over ownership of the property
- Must be prepared and executed by a legal practitioner
- Contains historical title details and transfer clauses
- Often used in applying for Governor’s Consent or Certificate of Occupancy (CofO)
- Needs to be stamped and registered at the Lands Registry
✅ This is the document that proves you legally own the land.
⚖️ Major Differences Between Sales Agreement and Land Agreement
| Feature | Sales Agreement | Land Agreement (Deed of Assignment) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Outline sale terms | Transfer legal ownership of land |
| Stage of Use | Before full payment/transfer | After full payment is made |
| Legal Power | Binding agreement, not a title | Legally enforceable ownership proof |
| Can be Registered at Registry? | Optional | Yes – must be registered |
| Used For | Safeguarding intent of transaction | Title perfection (Governor’s Consent, CofO) |
| Drafted By | Lawyer or Real Estate Professional | Must be drafted by a Legal Practitioner |
🛡️ Why You Need Both Documents
- Sales Agreement protects you during negotiation and payment stages
- Land Agreement legally proves the land is now yours and allows for further title registration
🏢 How Taiwo Salam & Co. Properties Ltd Helps You Get Both Right
With years of handling real estate documentation in Ibadan and Oyo State, we ensure every transaction is legally structured and enforceable.
Here’s what we offer:
- ✅ Drafting of Sales Agreement for installment or conditional payments
- ✅ Preparation and execution of Land Agreements (Deed of Assignment)
- ✅ Working with certified legal professionals and land registries
- ✅ Verification of seller’s land title before any agreement is signed
- ✅ Assistance in perfecting titles: CofO, Survey, Governor’s Consent, etc.
📞 Secure Your Property With Legal Confidence
Taiwo Salam & Co. Properties Ltd
📍 Office: Block U4, Joke Plaza, Bodija, Ibadan
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: 08065558146
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.taiwosalamandco.com
Don’t risk your property on vague documents. Let us help you secure your land with verified legal agreements.
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