APPRAISAL OF THE PERCEPTION OF REAL ESTATE INVESTORS’ ON THE LENDING REQUIREMENTS OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN ABUJA

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

An investment in real estate development requires a huge sum of money, most at times exceeding six (6) figures as such only a hand full of individuals could venture into this form of investment.

This financial insufficiency naturally turns investors to financial institution for possible credit advancement. Mbanefo (2002) observed that the importance of banks in our economy lies in their monopoly of the resources to provide loans for industrial and commercial developments. The provision of this loan however, carries the risk of default in repayment hence the need to take adequate, reliable and appropriate security for the purpose of insulating default risk associated with credit transactions in banks. According to CBN (1995) out of every N1.00 loan granted by Nigerian Banks only 57 kobo were capable of being realized representing 57%.

Lending which may be on short, medium or long-term basis is one of the services that commercial banks do render to their customers. In other words, banks do grant loans and advances to individuals, business organizations as well as government in order to enable them embark on investment and development activities as a mean of aiding their growth in particular or contributing toward the economic development of a country in general. Commercial banks are the most important savings, mobilization and financial resource allocation institutions.

Consequently, these roles make them an important phenomenon in economic growth and development. In performing this role, it must be realized that banks have the potential, scope and prospects for mobilizing financial resources and allocating them to productive investments. Therefore, no matter the sources of the generation of income or the economic Policies of the country, commercial banks would be interested in giving out loans and advances to their numerous customers bearing in mind, the three principles guiding their operations which are, profitability, liquidity and solvency. However, commercial banks decisions to lend out loans are influenced by a lot of factors such as the prevailing interest rate, the volume of deposits, the level of their domestic and foreign investment, banks liquidity ratio, prestige and public recognition to mention a few.

APPRAISAL OF THE PERCEPTION OF REAL ESTATE INVESTORS’ ON THE LENDING REQUIREMENTS OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN ABUJA