A Nigerian man's simple inquiry about renting an apartment has ignited a major conversation online after he shared the astonishing list of charges sent to him by a property agent. The breakdown, which included a controversial 'drink fee', left him and many social media users in disbelief.
The Shocking Breakdown from the Agent
The man, identified on social media as @Nnamdi, had contacted an agent about a self-contained apartment within a fenced compound with a gate. Hoping to secure a new home, he was utterly taken aback by the agent's response. Instead of a simple quote, he received a detailed list of mandatory payments.
The message from the agent, which @Nnamdi posted online, read: "Self contain N450k portable fence with gate. Caution fee N50k, rent N450k, Legal N45k, service charge N50k, Agency N90k, Drink N30k." The total cost, excluding the curious 'drink' charge, was already significant, but this additional N30,000 fee became the focal point of his frustration and the ensuing public discussion.
Nigerians React: Shared Frustrations and Warnings
The post quickly went viral, resonating with countless Nigerians who have faced similar predicaments in the country's challenging real estate market. The comments section turned into a forum for sharing experiences and advice.
One user, Blaq Hercu, issued a stark warning: "Any shop or apartment where drink is required. just run without looking back. You'll never have peace of mind." This sentiment highlights a common suspicion that such informal fees can be a red flag for problematic landlord-tenant relationships.
Others used the opportunity to lament the skyrocketing cost of housing in various regions. @KIDDIES TOY VENDOR IN DELTA pointed out that prices in areas like Ughelli, Igwhreovie, Ekuigbo, and Ekredjebor are exceptionally high, with two-bedroom apartments going for between 1.2 million to 2 million Naira. User @Enoobong compared prices, noting that what might cost 600k in one city could be double elsewhere.
Some comments pointed fingers at the root cause of the inflation. @Anita stephens explicitly stated, "I no blame them Na yahoo boys cause am," suggesting that the influx of money from internet fraud has artificially driven up property prices and associated costs in certain areas.
Practical Advice and Broader Market Insights
Amidst the complaints, some users offered alternative strategies for house hunting. @Maximum_Lycense shared a hands-on approach: "Agents never finds house for me, I use my hand... the fastest ways is to meet welders, carpenters and ask them for new houses ideas, they know faster than agents." This advice underscores a loss of trust in formal agents and a turn towards community networks.
The conversation also included perspectives from both sides of the transaction. User @B mentioned, "Brought my first house in January and found it so stressful. Now on the other side of selling my grandads property so will be interesting to see it from the other side," acknowledging the complexities inherent in the Nigerian real estate market for all parties involved.
This incident, shared on January 17, 2026, is not an isolated case. It reflects a widespread issue of transparency and affordability in Nigeria's housing sector. The viral reaction shows a public tired of hidden charges and informal levies that make securing a home an even more daunting financial burden.
