Entrepreneur and Realtor, Simisola Tomori believes that there are significant opportunities for Nigerians in the diaspora to build wealth through property, both in the UK and Nigeria. For her, the key is understanding that the two markets operate very differently.
In the UK, investors can explore opportunities such as buy-to-let, HMOs, serviced accommodation, commercial property, property development and strategic refurbishments. There is also an opportunity to add value to existing properties rather than simply buying and waiting for capital appreciation.
‘Nigeria also presents opportunities, particularly in land acquisition, residential development, commercial property and developments targeted at the growing middle class. However, investors need to carry out proper due diligence because issues around title, planning, infrastructure, location and property management can significantly affect an investment. For me, the most important thing is due diligence before emotion. Investors need to understand the numbers, the legal position of the property, the demand in the area, exit strategy, financing costs, taxes and the risks involved before committing their money.’ Tomori adds.
In a bid to deliver excellence and also offer practical knowledge of the real estate market Tomori created a coaching programme which would be an initiative to bridge the huge gap in the sector and assist in redefining how it could be leveraged. From seeing how many people want to get into property but simply don’t know where to start the coaching process became just the perfect solution to their problems. She further disclosed that, ‘I have met people who have the money but lack the knowledge, people who have the knowledge but don’t know how to find the right opportunities, and people who are simply overwhelmed by the process. I wanted to create something practical rather than just another programme based on theory. It is designed for aspiring investors, professionals, entrepreneurs and members of the diaspora who want to understand how to approach property investment and development strategically.’
‘Participants learn how to analyse property deals, assess locations, understand development opportunities, calculate potential returns, carry out due diligence, understand planning and compliance considerations, work with professionals, negotiate and structure projects. We also look at sourcing opportunities, funding options and exit strategies. Most importantly, I want people to leave with the confidence to analyse an opportunity themselves, rather than depending entirely on someone else to tell them whether a property is a good investment.’
Tomori’s bigger vision is about creating access to knowledge and opportunities. As she believes that wealth creation should not be limited to people who grew up around property or already have connections within the industry. She earnestly wants to help people understand how money can be converted into assets and how those assets can potentially create long-term wealth.
For the diaspora particularly, she says, ‘I want to bridge the gap between people living abroad and investment opportunities in both the UK and Nigeria. There are so many talented Nigerians abroad who want to invest back home but don’t know who to trust, how to conduct due diligence or how to structure their investments. Ultimately, I want to build a community of knowledgeable investors who can make informed decisions, create businesses, develop properties, provide housing and create opportunities for others.’
As she continues to lead the affairs at Simabel Realty Limited, she has brought together a vibrant community of over 1,000 UK-based Nigerian professionals and entrepreneurs. Together, they are bridging the knowledge gap, unlocking high-yield property strategies, and building sustainable portfolios that secure financial freedom for generations to come.