Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most from renters, landlords, and scouts. Can't find what you need? We are one message away.
For Renters
Is it free to search for properties?
Yes. Browsing, searching, saving, and messaging landlords is completely free for renters. You will never be charged to use RealHomly.
How do I know a listing is genuine?
Every listing on RealHomly has passed an admin review. Listings from verified landlords show a "Verified" badge. Scout-visited properties show a "Scout Visited" badge with a full inspection report.
Can I see the landlord's phone number?
Yes. Registered renters can reveal a landlord's phone number on any listing. There is a limit of 10 phone reveals per day to prevent spam. Each reveal is logged for safety purposes.
What should I do before paying rent?
Always inspect the property physically before paying anything. RealHomly does not collect rent and does not permit inspection fees. If a landlord asks for payment before a viewing, report it immediately.
What can I report a listing for?
You can report a listing for: fake or misleading information, inflated prices, impersonation, inappropriate content, or any other safety concern. Our team reviews every report.
Can landlords ask for more than 1 year of advance rent?
No. Under the Lagos State Tenancy Law 2011, landlords cannot request more than one year of rent in advance for residential properties. RealHomly enforces this in the listing wizard and you should report any landlord who violates it.
For Landlords
How much does it cost to list?
A Basic listing costs ₦3,000 and stays active for 60 days. A Featured listing costs ₦5,000 total and receives priority placement. There are no hidden fees or commissions on rent.
What identity documents do I need?
You will need a government-issued ID (NIN, driver's licence, or international passport), a live selfie for identity matching, and a phone OTP on your registered Nigerian number.
How long does review take?
Identity verification and listing review are typically completed within 24 hours on business days. You will receive an email with the outcome.
What happens if my listing is rejected?
If your listing is rejected after payment, the listing fee is refunded within 3 to 5 working days. We also provide clear feedback so you can prepare a compliant resubmission.
Can I list more than one property?
Yes. Each Basic listing requires a separate ₦3,000 fee. Your identity verification is shared across all your listings — you only verify once.
How do renters contact me?
Renters can send you in-app messages or reveal your phone number directly from the listing page. You will receive email notifications for new messages.
For Scouts
How do I apply to become a scout?
Visit our Scouts page and create an account or log in. Once logged in, go to your Scout dashboard and submit your application. We review applications within 3 business days.
How much do scouts earn?
Commission is paid per approved inspection report. The amount depends on property type and location. Earnings are displayed in your scout dashboard and paid weekly.
How do I get paid?
Scouts receive weekly payouts to their registered Nigerian bank account. You can request a payout from your scout dashboard once your earned balance reaches the minimum threshold.
What does the inspection involve?
You visit the property in person, complete a structured Y/N checklist covering 20+ points (structure, amenities, neighbourhood, landlord cooperation), take photos, and record a short video. You then submit the report through the app.
Can I choose which properties to inspect?
You receive assignments for properties in your registered area. You can accept or decline an assignment. Consistently declining without reason may affect your scout standing.
Platform & Safety
How does RealHomly make money?
We charge landlords a one-time ₦3,000 basic listing fee. A Featured listing costs ₦5,000 total. Renters use the platform for free.
Does RealHomly collect rent?
No. RealHomly is a discovery and verification platform only. We do not handle rental transactions, collect deposits, or facilitate payments between renters and landlords.
Is my data safe with RealHomly?
Yes. We comply with the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 (NDPA). Your data is encrypted in transit and at rest. You can request deletion of your account and data at any time from your settings.
How do I report a safety concern?
Use the "Report" button on any listing, or contact us directly at support@realhomly.com. We take all safety reports seriously and respond within 24 hours.
Still have questions?
Our support team is available Monday–Friday 8am–6pm WAT and Saturday 9am–2pm WAT.
Contact support →