Our encounter with Benedict Okafor aka Mr. Real Estate, founder of two real estate firms based on the Lagos Island axis. He granted an exclusive interview with Lanre OYETADE. Enjoy the read…
T & T News: Tell us who you are?
My name is Benedict Okafor from Delta State, Nigeria.
T & T News: What’s your occupation?
I’m into real estates with over 18 years’ experience by God’s grace.
T & T News: How did you start?
It wasn’t rosy or a white collar-job, but with God, we overcame.
T & T News: So you have never done a white collar-job?
No.
T & T News: You mean you’ve been self-employed even while in school?
Yes, I was self-sponsored using my real estate proceeds.
T & T News: Which University did you attend?
University of Lagos.
T & T News: And you studied?
I studied Mass Communication
First speaker: You never practised with the certificate?
I haven’t.
T & T News: Probably, you acquired some knowledge from the Mass Communication programme?
Yes, I have so much to offer, I intend to open an advertising firm in the future and definitely exhibit my expertise by God’s grace.
T & T News: When did your breakthrough manifest, or initially were you under tutelage or mentorship?
I learnt from the job and the people involved during the business; I have no mentor. I enquired from colleagues to overcome most of my challenges.
T & T News: Specifically, what are your main challenges on the job?
Mostly to get patronizing clients, especially when there are several properties to transact.
Most times, we rely on colleagues or agents for clients. We notify them of the property in our custody so that they will prioritize, eventually if the deal closes, then mutual compensation is made among all.
T & T News: What’s your most memorable day in real estate business; maybe the day you were most excited?
My greatest achievement in real estate practice was the day I sold 10 houses in VGC Estate in Lagos where all the clients paid their 5% commission, amicably; it was a testimony.
What’s your next plan in the real estate industry? Earlier, you stated an intention to buy, build and sell?
Yes.
T & T News: Can you explain more on that?
Yes, it’s already in progress at Sunshine Estate as Joint Venture- a more or less business of mutual benefit.
Now, I intend operating privately where I will secure, build and sell properties. Having our expertise in building, we assure people of contemporary, long-lasting housing with good foundation. This is because people face challenges of mortar, dampness and tilted structures.
T & T News: What’s your advice for beginners in the real estate business, being aware of the surge in the business, especially in the New Lagos axis?
Beginner’s should be consistent, patient, smart, focused, hardworking and show ability to work as a team especially with the agents. You source for property, advertise it through Instagram.
Also, identify yourself with people and close relations about real estate, and definitely, opportunity with look for you.
T & T News: Finally, as a successful and experienced realtor, have you been registered as a private company joint venture?
I have two registered companies. I have one construction company for Real estate development, and the other for agency. The companies are based here in Nigeria.
T & T News: What are the names of the companies, and what inspired them?
They are Peez Networks and Pieta Homes. Pieta is a Catholic prayer book that inspired me for over 8 years of my being successful. I decided to name my company after it.
