Buying property in the UK is exciting and let’s be honest, it feels like a big achievement. But once the excitement kicks in, reality follows... paperwork.
Whether you're based in Nigeria or just buying from overseas, the UK property market doesn’t joke with documentation. And if you’re not prepared, things can get delayed or worse, fall through completely.
Let’s break down the essential documents you’ll need to make your UK property purchase smooth and stress-free.
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Proof of Identity
This one’s obvious, but super important.
You’ll need:
- A valid passport
- Driver’s license (if you have one)
- Sometimes, a recent passport photo
Why? The estate agent, solicitor, and bank all need to know you’re you — and not some fake account buying a £300k property from a cafe Wi-Fi.
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Proof of Funds
The UK is big on transparency. So they want to see where your money is coming from, especially because of anti-money laundering (AML) checks.
You’ll need:
- Recent bank statements (usually 3 to 6 months)
- Evidence of savings, salary, or inheritance (if that’s the source)
- If using a mortgage, your mortgage offer document
Tip: If someone else (like family) is gifting you part of the funds, they’ll need to provide a gift letter confirming it’s not a loan.
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Proof of Address
Even if you're not living in the UK, you still need to show where you currently reside.
You’ll need:
- A recent utility bill (electricity, water, etc.)
- Or a bank statement or tenancy agreement
- Must be dated within the last 3 months
Pro tip: Some Nigerians use official correspondence like NIN slips or work letters but UK authorities prefer actual bills/statements with your name and address.
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Tax Identification or NIN (if from Nigeria)
To process property purchases from abroad, solicitors may request your Tax Identification Number (TIN) or NIN. This helps during financial and AML checks.
You’ll need:
- Your Nigerian NIN or TIN document
- It should match the name on your passport and bank statements
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Signed Offer Letter or Sales Agreement
Once you’ve made an offer and it’s accepted, you’ll sign a document confirming the terms. This is the early stage before full legal exchange.
You’ll need:
- Offer letter
- Memorandum of Sale (handled by agent/solicitor)
Remember: This isn’t the same as your final contract — that comes later in the conveyancing process.
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Solicitor Details & Power of Attorney (If You’re Abroad)
If you won’t be physically present, your solicitor might ask you to sign a Power of Attorney so they can act on your behalf in the UK.
You’ll need:
- A solicitor you trust
- Power of Attorney document (if applicable)
Helpful tip: Choose a solicitor experienced in international property deals — it saves you time and back-and-forth.
Final Thoughts
Buying property in the UK is very possible from Nigeria or anywhere else but only when your documents are complete and organized. It’s better to gather everything early so you’re not scrambling at the last minute when your dream house pops up.
If you’re planning to buy or just want help figuring out the steps, feel free to reach out. We assist clients worldwide in navigating the UK property process with confidence.
👇Contact DAS Properties to invest with clarity and confidence.