Buying property in Nigeria from abroad should be exciting and not stressful. But for many diaspora Nigerians, sending money home safely is one of the biggest hurdles. Between wire transfer delays, hidden fees, and the fear of fraud, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.  

The good news?  

Sending money for real estate investments has never been safer or more straightforward—if you know the right channels.  

Whether you’re buying land in Lagos, a rental property in Abuja, or a family home in Port Harcourt, this guide will walk you through the safest, fastest, and most cost-effective ways to transfer your funds from the UK or USA.  

Why You Need a Secure Transfer Strategy

Sending large amounts internationally requires more than just picking a cheap option. You need:  

• Security: Protection against fraud or loss  
• Transparency: No hidden fees or exchange rate markups  
• Traceability: Proof of payment for legal and compliance purposes  
• Speed: Timely delivery so you don’t miss out on a good property  

Do you know that using unverified or informal methods (like personal wire transfers to unknown accounts) can put your money and your dream property at risk?  

4 Safe & Approved Money Transfer Routes

1. Bank Wire Transfers  

The most traditional—and still reliable—method for large amounts.  

How it works

You instruct your UK or US bank to send funds directly to the seller’s or developer’s Nigerian bank account.  

Best for  

Large transfers (₦20M+) or final payments where proof of funds is critical.  

Pros  

• Secure and traceable  
• Accepted by all banks and legal entities in Nigeria  
• Provides a clear audit trail for regulatory compliance  

Cons  

• Can take 3–5 business days  
• Fees are often high (up to £40/$45 per transfer + forex spread)  
• Requires accurate recipient details to avoid delays  

Supported by  

Major UK/US banks (Barclays, HSBC, Chase, Bank of America)  

Nigerian commercial banks (GTBank, Zenith, FirstBank, Access)  

2. Licensed Money Transfer Operators (MTOs)  

Companies like Wise (formerly TransferWise), WorldRemit, Remitly, and Sendwave specialize in low-cost international transfers.  

How it works  

You send GBP or USD from your bank account to the MTO, which converts and sends naira to the recipient.  

Best for  

Medium-sized transfers (₦5M–₦20M) or installment payments.  

Pros  

• Lower fees and better exchange rates than banks  
• Fast (often same-day or next-day)  
• Easy to use online or via mobile app  

Cons  

• Transfer limits may apply  
• Some operators don’t support business or real estate transactions  

3. Diaspora-Focused Fintech Platforms  

Newer platforms like Afriex, Chipper Cash, and Lemonade Finance are built for Africans abroad.  

How it works  

You fund your account in the UK/US, then send naira directly to Nigerian accounts.  

Best for  

Regular or smaller transfers (₦1M–₦10M).  

Pros  

• User-friendly apps  
• Low fees  
• Some offer virtual naira accounts for holding funds  

Cons  

• Not all support large real estate transactions  
• Less regulatory history than banks or major MTOs  

4. Developer/Realtor Partner Platforms  

Some Nigerian real estate companies and developers have partnerships with international payment processors.  

How it works  

You pay directly into a UK or US escrow account managed by the developer’s financial partner.  

Best for  

Buying from developers with established diaspora programmes.  

Pros  

• Payment held securely until terms are met  
• Often discounted transfer fees  
• Developer handles most paperwork  

Cons  

• Only available with certain developers/realtors  

Supported by  

Select developers like Taurean Max (diaspora payment support)  

Red Flags: How to Avoid Money Transfer Scams

❌ Never send money to a personal account without a contract  

❌ Avoid “too good to be true” exchange rates  

❌ Don’t use unlicensed FX brokers or social media traders  

✅ Always use a lawyer or verified realtor to confirm recipient details  

How to Choose the Right Method for You

You’re Almost There—Transfer with Confidence

Sending money for your Nigerian property doesn’t have to be a leap of faith. With verified channels and the right partners, you can secure your investment from thousands of miles away.  

Need Help?  

Taurean Max supports diaspora buyers through every step:  

✅ Verified payment routes  

✅ Secure escrow options  

✅ Legal guidance & document support  

📞 Call: +234 703 498 1775  

📧 Email: hello@taureanmax.com  

📍 Visit: 8/10 Ireti Street, Yaba, Lagos