Every December, Nigeria lights up. Music everywhere. Streets filled with people. Flights fully booked. It’s that time we all call Detty December, a season of fun, travel, and heavy spending.
But behind the parties and concerts, smart investors see something most people don’t and that is real estate opportunity.
In this guide, we will talk about how Detty December gives real estate investors an opportunity to make money in shortlets.
What Is Detty December Really About?
Detty December is more than just a trend. It has become a time when Nigerians in the diaspora come home to reconnect, enjoy life, and show love. And when they come, they want full comfort, not just fun.
They want private, stylish, well-furnished homes. They want shortlets.
Nigerians in diaspora prefer shortlets to hotels when they come in for Detty December and longer periods.
And for very good reason, a hotel is a bit restrictive but not for a shortlet.
That’s why, every December, the demand for short-term rental apartments in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt skyrockets.
Why Shortlets Boom During December
Think about it. A Nigerian family flying in from the UK or US won’t mind paying ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 per night for a cozy apartment in Lekki. They want quality, privacy, and convenience.
This is where property owners win big.
During December, some shortlet owners can make 30% of their yearly income in just a few weeks.
According to the School of estate, Last December, shortlet apartments brought in $13 million dollars.
According to the Business Day, the shortlet market is projected to hit 42 billion in 2025.
Hotels get crowded. Airbnbs get fully booked. But investors who own their own apartments keep smiling to the bank.
How Smart Investors Cash Out During Detty December
Here’s what happens:
- Full Bookings: Shortlets get booked weeks before December starts.
- Higher Rates: Prices jump as demand rises.
- Returning Guests: Many visitors book again for the next holiday.
- Referrals: Guests tell friends and that creates free word-of-mouth marketing.
It’s not luck. It’s timing and smart investment.
Location: The Secret Behind Big Returns
To win in the shortlet game, location is everything. Smart investors know to invest in areas close to the action. The action includes nightlife, malls, beaches, and airports.
Top-performing shortlet areas in Nigeria include:
- Lekki Phase 1 and Victoria Island (Lagos)
- Maitama, Gwarinpa, and Guzape (Abuja)
- Peter Odili Road and GRA Phase 2 (Port Harcourt)
People don’t just pay for space. They pay for the experience that comes with that location.
What Makes a Shortlet Truly Profitable
To stand out and attract premium guests, your shortlet should have:
- Modern interior design
- Fast Wi-Fi and 24/7 electricity
- Security and easy access
- Great online reviews and professional photos
When your property looks and feels good, guests are happy to pay more.
Why Now Is the Best Time to Invest
Detty December isn’t slowing down, in fact it is getting bigger every year. More Nigerians abroad are coming home and more tourists are visiting. More locals are renting for vacations and celebrations.
If you decide to invest in shortlets, by next December, your property could already be booked out.
Every year you wait, land and construction costs rise. Start now — and let the December crowd pay your mortgage for you.
Final Thought
Detty December is more than a party season. It’s the best time to be a proud investor and make real money from shortlets. When others see concerts, smart investors see cashflow.
When others party, they collect rent. If you’ve been thinking about investing in short-term rentals, this is your sign to start now.
By 2026 December, your property should be the one fully booked.