Nigerian landlords are now charging higher rent for eco-friendly apartments

Imagine returning to Nigeria after years abroad, searching for a modern apartment to rent—only to discover that the ‘luxury’ homes you used to know are now considered outdated. Today, savvy landlords are charging premium rents for properties with solar panels, rainwater systems, and energy-efficient designs. Indeed, Nigerian landlords are now charging higher rent for eco-friendly apartments!

If you have been planning to invest in Nigerian real estate in 2025, here’s why eco-friendly homes are the new gold standard—and how you can benefit if you join the new trend.

Do you know why Nigerian landlords are now charging higher rent for eco-friendly apartsments? — ***Aerial view of solar panels on a rooftop of a residential home***

The Green Revolution in Nigerian Real Estate

Nigeria’s real estate market is undergoing a silent but powerful transformation. Rising electricity costs, frequent flooding, and stricter environmental regulations have made eco-friendly features a major selling point.

For Nigerians in the diaspora, this shift matters because:
✔ Higher rental income – If you own property, green upgrades can increase your ROI.
✔ Lower living costs – If you’re renting, these homes save you money long-term.
✔ Future-proof investment – Eco-conscious buildings appreciate faster.

But why exactly are landlords charging more? And how can you, as a diasporan, take advantage of this trend? Let’s break it down.

Why Eco-Friendly Apartments Command Higher Rent in 2025

1. Solar Power = No More “NEPA Bill” Shock

The average Nigerian household spends ₦50,000–₦100,000 monthly on fuel for generators.
Eco-friendly apartments with solar panels eliminate this cost, allowing landlords to charge 10–30% higher rent.
Example: A Lagos 3-bedroom that would normally rent for ₦1.5M/year now goes for ₦1.8M/year—just because of solar.

2. Water Scarcity Solutions = Higher Demand

Cities like Lagos and Abuja face chronic water shortages.
Apartments with rainwater harvesting systems or boreholes with filtration attract long-term tenants willing to pay extra.

3. Energy-Efficient Designs = Lower Maintenance Costs

Buildings with proper insulation, natural ventilation, and LED lighting reduce energy waste.
Landlords save on maintenance, and tenants enjoy lower bills—making these properties more desirable.

4. Government Incentives & Tenant Preferences

Some states now offer tax breaks for green buildings.
Young professionals and expats prefer eco-friendly homes, creating a competitive rental market.

Indeed, these facts explains why Nigerian landlords are now charging higher rent for eco-friendly apartments!

IN OTHER NEWS: Poor oversight fuelling construction defects – FG

What This Means for Nigerians in the Diaspora

If You’re Looking to Rent:

✅ Look for green-certified apartments—they may cost more upfront but save you ₦500k+ yearly on utilities.
✅ Ask about: Solar backup, water recycling, and smart energy meters.

If You’re a Property Owner:

✅ Retrofit your property—adding solar or rainwater systems can boost rent by 20%.
✅ Market to diasporans—many prefer move-in-ready, modern homes with sustainable features.

If You’re Looking to Invest:

✅ Buy into green estates (e.g., Lekki Eco Estate, Abuja Green Villas).
✅ Future-proof your investment—eco-homes sell 30% faster than conventional ones.

“I used to struggle finding tenants for my 4-bedroom in Surulere. After installing solar and a rainwater system in 2024, I increased rent from ₦1.2M to ₦1.5M per year—and now have a waiting list!”
– Yinka Adeoye (UK-Based Landlord)

What Should You Do Next?

🌱 Diasporans Looking to Rent?
➡ Search for eco-friendly listings on PropertyPro, House and Land Naija, or Private Estates. Ask: “Does this property have solar/rainwater features?”

🏡 Own a Property in Nigeria?
➡ Upgrade now! A ₦6M solar investment can add ₦500k+ yearly in rental income.

📈 Planning to Invest?
➡ Download our free guide: “How Diasporans Can Profit from Nigeria’s Green Housing Boom.”

Final Thought

The Nigerian real estate market is changing—eco-friendly isn’t just ‘nice to have’ anymore; it’s a financial game-changer. This is why Nigerian landlords are now charging higher rent for eco-friendly apartments. Whether you’re renting, owning, or investing, going green means more savings, higher returns, and a smarter future.