Study of Real Estate Agency Practice and Professionalism in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

This study examines the practice and professionalism of real estate agency services in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, South South Nigeria, investigating the structure of agency services, professional standards, and client experiences in a market that has grown substantially alongside Uyo's status as the commercial capital of a significant oil-producing state. Uyo has experienced considerable real estate market activity driven by the spending power of oil sector workers, government professionals, and diaspora returnees, making the quality of agency intermediation an important market governance issue. The study employs a cross-sectional survey design, administering questionnaires to 80 property transaction clients who had used estate agency services in the previous two years, 30 registered estate agents, and 15 unregistered property brokers. Assessment dimensions include service range, commission transparency, due diligence provision, ethical conduct, and client dispute resolution. Findings reveal significant differentiation between registered estate surveyors who provide comprehensive transaction support including title search, valuation, and legal liaison, and unregistered brokers who facilitate introductions but provide minimal transaction risk management. Client experiences are generally more positive for transactions mediated by registered professionals. Commission double-dipping, where agents collect undisclosed fees from both buyers and sellers, is reported by 28 percent of respondents who used unregistered brokers. Awareness of professional standards complaints channels is low. Recommendations include mandatory registration of all estate agents transacting in Akwa Ibom State and consumer awareness campaigns about the risks of using unregistered intermediaries. Keywords: estate agency, professionalism, real estate, Uyo, Akwa Ibom.