Building construction is everyone's business in Nigeria because most people prefer to build their home themselves rather than buy. Consequently, virtually everyone has turned expert home builder overnight even though most know little or nothing about professional home construction. The result? Collapsed buildings here and there. In fact, news report of collapsed buildings have become a common tale in Lagos Nigeria and, indeed, in many parts of Nigeria. The reason is obvious - we have many quacks in the industry posing as home construction experts. They charge high fees Call themselves engineers and Build sub-standard houses that look good on the outside but are structurally defective I will tell you this . . . and please listen carefully. Home building is serious business. As a matter of fact, your investment in home building is about the most capital intensive investment you will ever make. The good news is that a building is built to outlive its builders. But that will only happen if you build right. Here are a few tips to help you build homes that last . . . homes that will bring you fame and honor.