“We are committed to
rebuilding investors’
confidence in Real Estate
Development”
HRH(DR) MRS EDNA UBEBE A. in this exclusive interview with Lanre Shodimu of Land Mark Africa Magazine, she comment on the spate of building collapse, other Challenges and Prospects facing the Real Estate Sector in Nigeria.
Please tell us briefly about your firm – Simpli MI Homes
I am HRH Dr Edna Ngozi Ubebe A.; the Managing Director/ CEO of Simpli Mi Homes. I earned my Doctorate degree in Real Estate Management and Development from European- American University. I also have a degree in Business and Human Resource management. I am a very simple person as the name of my company implies. Simpli Mi Homes is all about making real estate investment and acquisition simple and accessible to all, home and abroad. Simpli Mi Homes was founded in January 13th 2020 and since then our hands has been on deck to give our clients the best real estate investment offers and solutions to their real estate needs.
What always motivated your staff towards achievement of their goals?
Real estate is one of the fastest means to become a millionaire, most millionaires we see today became so through real estate, seeing this as a view point, the will to become better and grow financially couple with my constant push and motivation, has made them have a focus on achieving their set goals.
Do appraise the importance of Real Estate investments in the Economy?
The importance of real estate investment cannot be over emphasized, it has played a very important role in the improvement of the Nigerian economy, Real Estate is generally considered a great investment option because of its predictable cash flow, less volatile nature which has many advantages over Stocks, Crypto currency or other sort of investment, especially as it appreciates, a resistant to inflation. One area that is crucial to economic growth is infrastructure, and in Nigeria, Real Estate is a highly lucrative, fast developing sector with several infrastructure and property developers shaping its framework.
Currently, the figure for housing deficit in Nigeria is presently over 18 million. This means over 12 percent of the population presently lacks basic living facility. To understand the potential of the sector, you have to imagine a ready-made market of over 18 million potential consumers of a product which you have to offer.
Individually, Real Estate boost the net worth of investors.
What are the factors hindering the growth and development of the Real Estate sector in Nigeria?
Amongst many factors hindering the growth and development of real estate sector in Nigeria are low finance, Lack of transparency, high cost due to the devaluation of naira, amongst others . The effect of devaluation of naira would have been milder if construction materials were produced locally other than being imported, this would reduce the cost of materials and make property acquisition affordable to the average Nigerian Citizen.
How competitive is the Real Estate sector compared to other sectors in the Nigerian Economy?
The real estate sector is one of the most competitive sectors in the economy, as there are many real estate firms out there, nevertheless, I believe we are all working in our different capacity to slice the problem of housing deficits in Nigeria.
Simpli Mi Homes is Unique, and focused on giving her investors the best in their real estate investment journey.
As a Professional, what are the likely effects, the reoccurring cases of building collapse in Nigeria?
Most buildings collapse due to the inferior materials used and as well as neglect/ ignorance by some contractors and owners of the supposed kind of structure that should be built. The recent Ikoyi building collapse has triggered lots of negative stories in the real estate market, hence we are committed to rebuilding investors confidence most especially in Lagos Nigeria.
How do we maximize the potentials in the Real Estate Sector?
Regardless of the recent crises, real estate still a good long term investment plan. If you look back ward 30 years ago, real estate is better than it was, so also will it be in the next few years real estate investment is for all, as such we should all embrace real estate investing so that in the few years’ time we all will benefit from the returns it brings.
What are the Ideals that set your firm apart from others?
Simpli Mi Homes is Unique in all her doings. What makes us standout is the comfort and peace of mind you get after partnering with us knowing that your money is in the right place without Government encumbrances and Omo-onile issues.
What is the future of Real Estate Industry in Nigeria?
More money has been made in real estate than I other industrial sectors, the future of real estate in Nigeria is very bright as the commencing of operation of the Dangote Refinery and emergence of the new Lagos city at Ibeju-lekki any time from now, will pave way for smart investors who will and are already investing in that location.
In real estate, you don’t wait to buy, you buy and wait.