The Apartment Hunt Chronicles:. Apparently, House is like Gold in this… | by Juls_pEn | Oct, 2025
You’d think finding a decent apartment in Abuja would be straightforward, until you start searching. Then you realize house hunting in the Buj is practically an extreme sport. Prices are wild, landlords are demanding two years upfront, and the ridiculous agent/legal, inspection and caution fees alone could fund a vacation.
Honestly, it’s giving “survival of the fittest.” Thankfully, I haven’t faced any gender bias or shady Landlord behavior like some people report 🙏🏽
So, Here’s how it all began.
Back in May-my birthday month, I decided it was finally time to move into a bigger space. A one-bedroom apartment, or even better, a two-bedroom. That way, when my siblings visit, they can have a room to themselves.
Because let me tell you, the *sandwich situation* that happened in my studio when they visited was wild. My once-spacious apartment lost its breathing space to; a pile of clothes, bags, and snacks everywhere. And of course, being the big sister, I gave them my bed and took the couch.
That night, I decided: *nah*, it’s time for more room.
The Search Begins
Since my rent was expiring on October 1st, I reached out to the agent I’d used before, but I didn’t find anything solid until late August. After two inspections, I finally saw one that checked most of my boxes ; good location, great vibe. I visited, loved it, and even went to the agent’s office to sign documents and submit guarantor forms.
They promised to get back to me the next morning.
The next day, I followed up (because… silence 😒), only to hear that someone else had already paid *for two years upfront!*
The gag? Nobody told me about the two year bit when I submitted my guarantor’s form. I’m guessing someone just walked in, said “I’ll pay for two years,” and the deal was done.
Oh, and did I mention? Every inspection costs ₦15,000 whether or not you take the apartment.
At that point, I told the agent I wouldn’t pay another fee until he found something I genuinely liked.
Trying Again (With New Agents)
Over the next few weeks, he showed me more options, but they were either outside my preferred area or way above my budget. I’d already been clear about everything, the location I wanted, my budget, and even where I was willing to bend a little if the house was worth it.
So, I started asking friends for their agents. That’s how I met a lady who instantly stood out. After our first viewing, she said, “Oh, now I know what you like.”
In my head, I’m like, *duh!* Because for me, it’s not just about finding an apartment , the space, compound, environment, access to the road, and LIGHT all matter.
See, I’ve been spoiled. I haven’t owned a generator or inverter since 2016. I simply cannot start living where generators are in a noise competition. The only exception? A serviced apartment where I’m not the one fueling or switching it on. Otherwise… no thanks.
But now, it looks like I might need to get an inverter
The TikTok Twist
Then I took the search to TikTok. (Shoutout to my sisters for dragging me into that app 😅).
Surprisingly, it worked! I found an apartment immediately. But of course, the landlord was asking for *one and a half years’ rent.*
Like, what’s the half doing there? Why not just take a year? 😩
And of course, there’s still the ₦15k inspection fee, the 20% agent/legal fee, and the “refundable” caution fee (which, let’s be honest, nobody ever sees again).
At this point, I asked myself, even if I stretched my budget or did a GoFundMe, how would I renew my rent next year?
Counting the Cost
ChatGPT says (yes, I checked 😅) your rent shouldn’t exceed 30% of your income — and I agree. I can’t stress myself now only to struggle later.
Plus, I’d honestly rather buy land. I have plans for my money!
of course, everyone had opinions.
One friend said, “Who knows? You might be married next year.”
Another said, “You might have relocated.”
Someone else asked, “Don’t you trust God to take care of you?”
That one hit me because truly, I do trust God. But I also know faith doesn’t cancel responsibility.
it’s irresponsible to go above my means and expect grace to cover poor planning.
Another person said, “Maybe God doesn’t want you to leave that house.”
And i said hmm, Maybe but God also knows that this house has become too small for me.
Between the leaks when it rains, the mold, and how quickly my dehumidifiers get used up, I’m done.
Still, There’s a Silver Lining
To be fair, my current place in Asokoro has its perks ; my workplace, gym, and church are just a few minutes away. That’s why I’m praying my next apartment will be somewhere nearby.
The search continues, and I’m holding onto faith.
Because one thing I know for sure, I’ll have my testimony soon. 🙏🏽
Even if house hunting in Abuja feels like searching for gold 😅
