Detty December has become one of the busiest travel seasons in Nigeria. People fly in from abroad, families plan reunions and friends map out concerts, festivals and parties across Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt. This sudden rush creates high demand for temporary stays, which makes shortlet prices climb faster than usual.
If you want comfort without overspending, timing and strategy matter. Affordable shortlets still exist even during the holiday rush. You only need to know where to look, how to compare options and what mistakes to avoid. This guide walks you through everything that helps you secure a clean, safe and budget-friendly shortlet this December.
Why Shortlets Become Expensive During Detty December
December is peak season. Flight arrivals triple, event calendars get packed and many people prefer furnished apartments over hotels because they offer privacy, kitchen access and extra space. Property owners understand demand rises sharply, especially from mid-December to early January, so prices naturally respond.
But expensive does not mean unavoidable. There are still neighbourhoods, booking windows and search techniques that help you stay ahead of inflated rates.
Start Your Search Early
Avoid Last-Minute Booking Pressure
Waiting until a week before Christmas is one of the fastest ways to pay more than necessary. Many affordable options disappear by late November. Early birds enjoy better prices because hosts have not yet adjusted for peak demand. If you start your search in October or early November, you will likely find furnished apartments that cost far less than December listings.
Secure Your Stay Before Flights Arrive
Diaspora arrivals usually begin around the second week of December. Once those flights drop, shortlet prices jump. Booking before then helps you lock in a stable rate.
Use Trusted Shortlet Marketplaces
Platforms That Help You Compare Prices
The safest way to find affordable shortlets is through verified property platforms. These websites let you compare apartments side by side while filtering by price, location, amenities and duration. This reduces time wasted and protects you from scams.
Well-known platforms like PrivateProperty.ng are particularly helpful because they allow you to view authentic listings from trusted agents across Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and other cities.
Benefits of Using Verified Platforms
- Clear photos and accurate descriptions
- Transparent pricing
- Verified agents and property owners
- Ability to filter for budget-friendly options
- Access to neighbourhoods with cheaper stays
- Faster communication with hosts
Shortlets listed on verified platforms tend to be more reliable, which saves you time, money and stress.
Choose Locations Outside Hot Zones
Lagos Examples
Ikoyi, Victoria Island and Lekki Phase 1 are the most expensive areas during Detty December. Instead of booking in these hotspots, consider nearby neighbourhoods that are safe, accessible and more affordable.
Some cost-friendly Lagos options include:
- Lekki Phase 2
- Sangotedo
- Ajah
- Yaba
- Gbagada
- Ogudu
- Surulere
You still stay close enough to events while avoiding overwhelming prices.
Abuja Alternatives
Central Business District and Wuse often get expensive in December. Look at:
- Gwarinpa
- Jahi
- Lokogoma
- Dawaki
These areas provide comfort without the premium cost.
Port Harcourt Options
GRA is always pricey. Try:
- Ada George
- Rumuola
- Woji
Choosing a less hyped location is one of the strongest ways to save money during the holiday rush.
Be Flexible With Apartment Size
Many travellers book the largest apartments because they want space or plan to host friends. But bigger units cost more, especially in December. If you want to save money, consider the smallest option that still gives you comfort.
Studio and One-Bedroom Units Are Hidden Gems
Studio apartments usually fill up last because many people want 2- or 3-bedroom units. This means you have a better chance of finding affordable studios or one-bedroom apartments even when the season gets busy.
This works especially well for:
- Solo travellers
- Couples
- Small friend groups
Instead of overspending on unnecessary space, pick the size that fits your needs.
Check for Weekly and Monthly Discounts
Shortlet hosts often give better deals if you stay longer. A three-day booking during Detty December might be expensive, but a week-long stay could come with discounts. Monthly stays attract even better pricing because hosts prefer guaranteed occupancy during peak periods.
Before booking, always ask:
- Do you offer weekly discounts?
- What is the best rate for a 7-day or 14-day stay?
- Is a monthly stay cheaper?
A simple conversation with the host or agent can reduce your final bill.
Book Directly Through Verified Agents
Booking directly, but safely, can cut costs. When you deal with a verified agent listed on a trusted platform, you may avoid some extra service fees that third-party channels add. Make sure the agent is verified before making payments. Trusted platforms give you this protection.
Inspect or Request a Virtual Tour
Avoid Overpaying for Low Value
A clean, well-furnished apartment can justify the price. A poorly maintained one cannot. Some listings look great online but appear different in real life. To avoid wasting money:
- Request a video inspection
- Join a live video call
- Ask for updated photos
- Confirm amenities like power supply and security
This ensures you get value for what you are paying.
Use Social Media Carefully
Social media can help you find cheaper options, but it is also where most scams happen during Detty December. Only book through pages with strong reviews, verifiable agent details and links that lead back to trusted property websites.
Travel With a Group
Group travel reduces cost because you split rent across several people. A two-bedroom apartment that costs 70,000 per night becomes far cheaper when four friends share the bill. This strategy works best for people attending concerts, weddings or festivals during the season.
Look for New Listings
New hosts often price their apartments lower to attract first-time guests. These listings usually appear:
- In new buildings
- Newly furnished units
- Apartments entering the shortlet market for the first time
You can filter by newest listings on most property platforms.
Compare Amenities Before Choosing
Sometimes the cheapest shortlet is not the best option. Paying slightly more for stable electricity, clean water, good security and proper housekeeping may save you stress and additional costs.
When comparing shortlets, consider:
- Power supply (very important during Detty December)
- Parking space
- WiFi
- Kitchen equipment
- Security within the estate
- Proximity to major roads
Focus on value rather than just price.
FAQs
Where can I find affordable shortlets this Detty December?
Check trusted platforms like PrivateProperty.ng where you can filter by price, location and apartment size.
When is the best time to book a December shortlet?
Late October or early November is the best time because prices rise sharply from mid-December.
Are shortlets cheaper outside major city centres?
Yes. Neighbourhoods slightly outside hotspots offer good apartments at lower rates.
Can I negotiate the price of a shortlet?
Some hosts allow negotiation, especially for longer stays or early bookings.
Is it safe to book shortlets through social media?
Only if the agent is verified and links back to a reputable property website.
Do weekly bookings get discounts?
Many hosts offer reduced rates for week-long or month-long stays, especially when you book early.
How do I avoid scams during Detty December?
Always inspect the apartment, request videos, and make payments only to verified agents or trusted platforms.
Finding an affordable shortlet during Detty December is possible when you plan ahead and search smart. Start early, avoid the busiest neighbourhoods, compare prices across verified platforms and always confirm the condition of the apartment before paying. A little preparation can save you from inflated prices while still giving you a comfortable place to enjoy the festive season.
If you want a simple place to begin your search, explore budget-friendly shortlets on PrivateProperty.ng, where verified agents list options across major Nigerian cities.
