The festive season is one of the busiest times in Nigeria’s rental market. From Christmas to New Year celebrations, weddings, family reunions, and end of year vacations all happen at once. Demand for short term rentals, holiday apartments, and serviced homes increases sharply, especially in cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, and popular resort towns.
With high demand comes higher prices and, unfortunately, a higher risk of scams and poor rental experiences. Many people rush into payments because they are excited or afraid of missing out. That is often how problems start. A clear checklist can save you money, stress, and disappointment.
This guide walks you through everything you should confirm before paying for a festive season rental so you can enjoy your stay with peace of mind.
Understand Your Rental Needs Clearly
Before contacting any agent or property owner, be clear about what you need. Festive rentals vary widely, from budget shortlets to luxury apartments.
Think about the number of guests you are hosting. A two bedroom apartment may look spacious online but feel cramped once everyone arrives. Consider whether you need extra bathrooms, a living room big enough for visitors, or outdoor space.
Also decide how long you plan to stay. Some festive rentals have minimum stay requirements, especially during Christmas and New Year. Knowing your dates in advance helps you avoid last minute surprises.
Decide Between Shortlet and Regular Rental
During the festive season, many properties are offered as shortlets rather than monthly rentals. Shortlets are usually fully furnished and priced per night.
If you are staying for more than two weeks, ask if a discounted rate is available. Some property owners are flexible, especially if your stay covers the entire festive period.
Confirm the Exact Location and Accessibility
Location matters more during the festive season. Traffic is heavier, and road closures are common in major cities.
Ask for the exact address, not just the general area. A listing that says Lekki or Gwarinpa can still be far from where you need to be.
Confirm how close the rental is to main roads, shopping areas, event venues, churches, or beaches if those matter to you. If you are visiting from outside the city, ask about airport access and typical travel time during peak hours.
Check the Neighborhood Environment
Festive periods are noisy in some areas. If you value quiet nights, ask about nearby bars, clubs, or event centers. Power supply, security presence, and water availability are also important details to confirm.
Verify the Rental Price and What It Covers
Festive season pricing is often higher than normal, but that does not mean everything should be unclear.
Ask for a full breakdown of the cost. Confirm whether the price is per night or per stay. Some rentals charge extra for cleaning, electricity, security, or generator fuel.
Find out if there is a refundable caution fee and under what conditions it will be returned. Many renters lose part of their deposit simply because expectations were not clearly stated.
Watch Out for Unrealistically Cheap Offers
If a festive rental is far cheaper than similar options in the same area, be cautious. Scammers often use low prices to rush people into quick payments. Compare prices across multiple listings to understand the market range.
Confirm the Amenities in Detail
Do not assume anything during the festive season. Ask specific questions about amenities.
Confirm the availability of electricity and backup power. Many guests plan to work remotely or host visitors, so steady power is important. Ask how many hours of generator or inverter power are provided daily.
Check for water supply, air conditioning in all rooms, kitchen appliances, WiFi, and parking space. If you are hosting family, confirm if the kitchen is fully equipped or only basic.
Ask for Recent Photos or Videos
Festive season rentals are often fully booked, so some listings use old photos. Request recent photos or a short video tour to confirm the current condition of the property.
Confirm Security and Safety Arrangements
Security is a major concern, especially if you are staying in a new city or hosting guests.
Ask about gated estates, security personnel, CCTV, and visitor access control. If the property is in a block of flats, confirm how security is handled at night.
Also ask about fire safety measures and emergency contacts. These details are often overlooked but very important.
Verify the Owner or Agent Before Paying
Never pay for a festive season rental without verifying who you are dealing with.
If you are working with an agent, ask for their full name, office address, and phone number. For direct owners, request a valid means of identification and proof of ownership or authority to rent out the property.
Using a trusted property marketplace like PrivateProperty.ng helps reduce risk because listings are tied to verified agents and agencies.
Avoid Pressure to Pay Immediately
Be cautious of anyone pressuring you to pay immediately without answering your questions. While festive rentals do move fast, a legitimate agent will still allow you to verify details.
Understand the Payment Terms Clearly
Always ask for written payment terms. This can be a message, invoice, or agreement outlining the amount, dates, and refund policy.
Confirm whether payments are refundable if plans change. Many festive rentals have strict cancellation policies due to high demand.
Never send money to personal accounts without documentation. Ensure the account name matches the agent or company you are dealing with.
Clarify Check In and Check Out Rules
Festive season rentals often have tight schedules because guests are coming back to back.
Confirm check in and check out times. Ask if early check in or late check out is possible and whether it attracts extra charges.
Also confirm house rules regarding visitors, parties, noise levels, and smoking. Violating these rules could lead to penalties or eviction.
Inspect or Confirm Condition Before Arrival
If possible, inspect the property physically before paying. If that is not possible, ask for a live video call walkthrough.
Confirm the condition of furniture, appliances, and bathrooms. Festive season stays are meant to be comfortable, so do not settle for vague assurances.
Keep Records of All Communication
Save all chats, emails, payment receipts, and agreements. These records are important if any issues arise during your stay.
A professional agent or platform will always provide clear documentation.
FAQs
What is the best time to book a festive season rental in Nigeria?
It is best to book at least four to six weeks before Christmas to get better options and prices.
Are festive season rentals more expensive than normal?
Yes, prices are usually higher due to increased demand, especially in major cities and holiday locations.
Should I pay a caution fee for a shortlet?
Most shortlets require a refundable caution fee to cover potential damages.
Can I negotiate the price of a festive rental?
Negotiation is possible, especially for longer stays, but flexibility is limited during peak periods.
How can I avoid rental scams during the festive season?
Use trusted platforms, verify agents, avoid rushed payments, and always request documentation.
Is it safe to pay online for a festive rental?
Yes, as long as you are paying verified agents or platforms and keeping proper records.
Paying for a festive season rental should feel exciting, not stressful. Taking time to confirm details, verify listings, and understand payment terms can make a huge difference in your experience.
Before making any payment, run through this checklist carefully. It helps you avoid common mistakes and ensures you get value for your money.
If you are searching for verified festive rentals, shortlets, or holiday apartments across Nigeria, explore trusted listings on PrivateProperty.ng. You can compare options, connect with professional agents, and secure a rental that fits your festive plans with confidence.
