Stephanie Coker Aderinokun has criticized Lagos housing agents for excessive and unjustifiable charges, including high agency fees and costly viewing rates. She called for government intervention to regulate the industry and protect prospective tenants from exploitation in Nigeria’s challenging real estate market.
Media personality Stephanie Coker Aderinokun has sparked an important conversation about the high and often exploitative charges placed on apartment seekers by Lagos housing agents. In a recent Instagram Story, the TV host shared her frustration after a property agent demanded a non-refundable ₦20,000 fee just to view a house—a cost that is often charged whether or not the client proceeds with the property.
Stephanie also criticized agents who charge as much as 20% in agency fees, a figure far above the usual 10% benchmark. She questioned the legality and morality of these practices and urged the Lagos State Government to intervene by regulating the housing sector more strictly.
Her post resonated with many Nigerians facing similar issues, especially young professionals struggling to find decent accommodation without being financially drained by agent-related costs. The media personality’s public outcry shines a spotlight on a systemic issue affecting Lagos residents and underscores the urgent need for housing reforms in the state.
Lagos, Nigeria’s most populous city, has long struggled with housing affordability, and the unregulated activities of some real estate agents have worsened the situation. Stephanie’s comments add to growing calls for transparency, fair pricing, and official oversight in the Lagos real estate market.
