FACTORS INFLUENCING CLIENTS’ CHOICE OF REAL ESTATE AGENTS IN PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS IN IBADAN METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT The increasing complexities of property transactions in Nigeria, coupled with the prevalence of informal agents, have raised concerns about service quality, professional ethics, and the protection of clients’ interests. This research investigates the factors influencing clients’ choice of real estate agents in property transactions within the Ibadan metropolis, with particular attention to the comparative roles of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, and unregistered property agents. The objectives are to examine clients’ choices of real estate agents in property transaction in Ibadan Metropolis; determine the requirements for unregistered property agents & estate surveyors when handling property transaction in Ibadan Metropolis; and assess the factors influencing clients’ choice between unregistered property agents & estate surveyors in Ibadan metropolis. The study adopts a survey research design and utilizes structured questionnaires administered to a purposive sample of property buyers, sellers, and tenants (300 respondents) across selected locations in Ibadan metropolis. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to identify the frequency and distribution of responses, Relative important index and factor analysis. Key data considered include trust, professionalism, service charges, accessibility, market and online presence, technical expertise, and regulatory compliance. Findings shows that professionalism, trustworthiness, and formal registration with relevant regulatory body are primary determinants of clients’ choices, while affordability, proximity, and marketing strategies also significantly influence decisions. Many clients expressed limited awareness of the legal implications of engaging unregistered agents, highlighting a need for stronger public sensitization. This research concludes that the promotion of ethical standards, stricter regulatory enforcement, and increased public education on the roles of registered Estate Surveyors and Valuers are essential in improving transparency, service quality, and clients’ satisfaction in the Nigerian real estate sector. The study recommended estate surveyors and valuers should engage public enlightenment on the need to engage them on the professional services they render so that the government and NGOs can support too. The stakeholders, professional bodies and practitioners should bridge the gap between formal and informal service provisions in the property market.