Budgeting for self contain in Victoria Island requires understanding the premium you're paying. Rent runs ₦3,500,000 to ₦65,000,000 yearly; budget options start around ₦3,500,000 annually while higher-tier properties reach ₦65,000,000. Service charges add to monthly costs for shared generator, water, and estate maintenance. Electricity through prepaid meters varies by usage. The location premium is real; you're paying for proximity to Island jobs, reliable infrastructure, and organized security. Factor in transportation savings; living in VI eliminates brutal commutes. If you want furnished, budget an additional ₦1,000,000 to ₦3,000,000 more per year. Check current verified listings on ExpertListing to see exact pricing.

Yes, self contain means you get your own private bathroom inside the room. Kitchen situation varies; some have small separate kitchen spaces, others have cooking corners within the main room with a burner and counter. A few just give you space to set up your own portable stove. The 'self' part means everything is contained within your unit; you're not sharing bathroom or cooking facilities with neighbors. This is different from face-me-I-face-you arrangements where multiple tenants share facilities. In VI, most self contain have decent bathroom setups with proper fixtures. Always view the property to see the exact kitchen arrangement; what landlords call 'kitchenette' ranges from proper small kitchens to just empty corners. ExpertListing photos show you the real layout before viewing.

Expect estate security with controlled access, 24/7 generator backup or inverter systems, treated water supply, and dedicated parking in Victoria Island self contain. Most properties are within organized estates or compounds with paved internal roads and functional street lighting. Waste management is regular and reliable. You'll have prepaid electricity meters and share generator costs through service charges. Internet infrastructure is solid; getting fast broadband isn't a problem. Some estates include gyms, pools, or shared lounges, but self contain are usually in separate BQ sections. Amenities reflect VI's premium standards; things actually work here. Always verify specific estate features with the property owner on ExpertListing.

Power supply in VI self contain is more stable than most Lagos areas, but you still need backup. Decent estates have 24/7 generator or inverter systems that activate instantly when NEPA fails. Premium properties may have solar hybrid systems reducing generator dependency. You'll rarely experience extended blackouts in well-managed buildings; power transitions are usually seamless. However, service charges reflect this reliability; budget for shared generator costs monthly. Some individual units have prepaid meters for NEPA and separate charges for backup power. Ask landlords specifically about power arrangements and average monthly utility costs before committing.

ExpertListing pre-verifies landlords, but take additional steps for complete protection. First, schedule a physical viewing using our map feature to confirm the property exists and matches the listing. Second, request the Certificate of Occupancy or Governor's Consent and verify it's legitimate through proper channels. Third, ensure the landlord's identity documents match property ownership papers exactly. Fourth, never transfer rent money without a signed tenancy agreement clearly stating terms, duration, and responsibilities. Fifth, keep all communications on ExpertListing's messaging platform for your protection and records. These steps eliminate most rental scams in Lagos.

Victoria Island self contain is honestly out of reach for most corps members unless you have serious family support or side income. Entry-level workers might manage budget options at ₦3,500,000, but you'll be spending huge percentage of salary on rent alone. That's financially risky. If your office is on the Island, consider Ajah, Sangotedo, or Mainland options where self contain is more affordable. You'll commute longer but keep financial breathing room. VI self contain works for mid-level bankers, tech workers earning decent money, or people sharing costs. Be honest about your income; stretching yourself for location prestige isn't worth the stress.