How Nigerians in the Diaspora Can Earn From Their Properties

From vacant apartment to income-generating short-let: the numbers, the risks and the realistic path.

Haven Stays Editorial · 5 July 2026 · 6 min read

Furnished living and dining space in a managed apartment

An empty apartment costs money every month — service charge, security, slow deterioration. A well-run short-let can cover those costs several times over.

What drives earnings

Three things: location, presentation and occupancy. A two-bedroom in Lekki Phase 1 that is beautifully presented and consistently available will outperform a larger apartment in a weaker location every time.

What it costs

Expect an initial spend on furnishing gaps, linen, photography and any repairs, then an ongoing management fee taken as a share of revenue. Cleaning and consumables are typically recovered from guest fees.

What can go wrong

Unvetted guests, inconsistent cleaning, power failures and slow maintenance are what turn a promising property into bad reviews. Guest screening and a responsive maintenance chain are not optional extras.

Start with an assessment

Submit your property for a free assessment and we will tell you honestly whether short-let is the right strategy for it — and what it would realistically earn.

Thinking about your own property?

Haven Stays manages apartments across Nigeria for owners at home and abroad. Submit yours for a free assessment.

Submit Your Property

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