Guide
What renting really costs.
Annual rent is the first line, not the total. Budget the rest before you commit.
Annual rent is not the total
A Lagos rental quote can look simple until fees, deposits and payment timing arrive. The listing should show the total move-in cost, the recurring schedule and which lines are still being confirmed.
The full cost list
| Line | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Annual rent | The amount stated by the landlord for the tenancy term |
| Tenant service fee | Confirm before commitment |
| Caution deposit | Confirm amount, hold and release terms |
| Agreement or legal fee | Confirm what document or service it covers |
| Agency or sourcing fee | Confirm who charges it and when it is due |
| Payment schedule | Monthly, quarterly or annual, with dates and method |
| Utilities and move-in costs | Confirm amount, hold and release terms |
| Refund and cancellation terms | Read before signing or paying |
| Total to move in | Rent plus agreed fees and deposit before handover |
The budget rule
Ask for one written total before you commit. Keep the annual rent, first payment, recurring payment, deposit and every fee in the same view. If the total changes, ask why and get the new schedule in writing.
Ask for every line in writing
Every fee, deposit and payment needs a clear purpose, recipient and receipt. Do not treat an unlisted charge as normal simply because it appears at the point of payment.
Take these with you
- Budget annual rent plus every agreed fee and deposit before moving in.
- Pilot fees and eligibility are not final until the listing and agreement are confirmed.
- Ask who receives each fee, when it is due and what it covers.
- A clear refund and cancellation rule is cheaper than a payment surprise.