Real estate firm Rentmates has raised concerns about the growing difficulty young professionals face in accessing affordable housing in Nigeria’s urban centres, particularly in Lagos.
Speaking to journalists in Lagos, Co-founder Ruth Olorunfemi noted that many young workers are burdened by high rent costs, often spending over 30 percent of their income on housing. This, she said, leaves little room for essential needs like savings, investment, and personal development.
“Finding affordable housing in Lagos is a daunting challenge for most young professionals,” Olorunfemi said. “The city’s fast-growing population and limited housing stock are making things worse. That’s why Rentmates is focused on bridging this gap.”
Rentmates, described as a next-generation real estate agency, offers rent financing solutions that allow tenants to spread payments over time. According to Olorunfemi, this approach has significantly reduced financial strain, giving clients the ability to manage rent alongside other life expenses.
Over the past four years, the company has built a portfolio of affordable and quality housing options, ranging from apartments to shared accommodations. In addition to flexible payment plans, Rentmates also offers personalized housing support—guiding clients through market options and connecting them with tailored financial solutions.
Olorunfemi added that Rentmates’ mission aligns with the broader goal of boosting economic participation by enabling young Nigerians to live more sustainably. “By making rent affordable and predictable, we’re helping young professionals focus on their careers, build businesses, and plan for the future,” she said.
With the cost of urban housing continuing to rise, the company reiterated its commitment to expanding its model to other major Nigerian cities and fostering a more inclusive housing system for emerging professionals.
