• by George

Moving to Ghana opens doors to rich culture, warm hospitality, and real opportunities. Whether you’re an expat starting a new assignment, a diaspora member returning home, or an international investor seeking growth, understanding the real estate market is your first critical step. Ghana’s property sector offers strong potential, but you need local knowledge and trusted guidance to get it right.

Visa, Residency, and Legal Requirements

Before you search for property, sort out your legal documentation. If you plan to stay longer than 180 days, you need a residence permit through Ghana Immigration Service. Work permits are essential for employment. Various residence options exist depending on your situation.

For property ownership, foreigners face one key restriction. You cannot own freehold property. You can acquire leasehold interests for up to 50 years with renewal options. Ghanaian citizens access leases up to 99 years. This difference matters when planning long-term. Companies with less than 40% foreign ownership get access to longer lease terms.

Renting vs. Buying

Your decision between renting and buying depends on your timeline and financial position. Ghana’s property prices are experiencing steady growth, with annual increases of 8-12% in urban areas. Prime locations in Accra command $450,000-$600,000 for three-bedroom houses.

Renting gives you flexibility. The rental market offers diverse options from apartments to standalone houses. Ghana’s rental structure differs from Western norms. Landlords often request one to two years’ rent upfront, despite legal guidelines limiting advance rent to six months. Security deposits equal one to two months’ rent. Standard leases run one to three years. Written agreements became mandatory in August 2024. Always insist on written terms, official receipts, and landlord ownership verification.

Buying offers long-term stability and wealth building. Properties in sought-after areas like East Legon, Cantonments, and Airport Residential Area have shown consistent value appreciation of 20-25% from 2020 to 2025. Rental yields in prime locations range from 8-11% for traditional leases and 12-20% for short-term rentals. You’ll need budget for stamp duty (0.25-1% of property value), legal fees (1-3%), registration fees, and due diligence costs.

Where to Live in Accra

Location shapes your quality of life. Several neighborhoods consistently attract expats and returning diaspora.

East Legon has grown into a buzzing hub for urban professionals, entrepreneurs, and the upper-middle class. The neighborhood offers excellent connectivity via the Tema motorway, proximity to A&C Shopping Centre, numerous international restaurants, and several top-tier international schools. Three-bedroom houses range from $450,000 to $600,000, with monthly rentals between $2,000 and $5,000.

Airport Residential Area sits just 5-10 minutes from Kotoka International Airport. This prestigious neighborhood hosts numerous embassies, diplomatic residences, luxury hotels, and international businesses. The area features 24/7 security, well-maintained infrastructure, and immediate access to international schools. Rentals range from $1,000-$1,500 for one-bedroom apartments to $2,500-$5,625 monthly for three-bedroom properties.

Cantonments represents Ghana’s premier diplomatic quarter. Home to the US Embassy, Chinese Embassy, and numerous ambassadorial residences, this leafy neighborhood provides the highest standard of expat living with round-the-clock security services. Proximity to Ghana International School and Lincoln Community School makes it exceptionally family-friendly.

Labone blends residential calm with urban access and coastal proximity. This established neighborhood combines authentic Ghanaian character with expat-friendly amenities including international schools, top medical facilities, malls, cafes, and restaurants. Two-bedroom apartments rent for $2,000-$2,200 monthly.

Buying Process and Legal Considerations

Understanding the buying process protects your investment. Start by defining your budget including all costs. If you need financing, explore mortgage options early. Foreign investors face limited mortgage options and typically require cash purchases.

Engage licensed professionals. 

Hire a Ghana Bar Association member lawyer to conduct due diligence and review contracts. Use a Ghana Institution of Surveyors member to verify property boundaries. Work with Real Estate Agency Council registered agents.

Due diligence is critical. 

Conduct an official Land Title Search at the Lands Commission to verify ownership and reveal any liens or court injunctions. This takes 4-12 months realistically. Verify all documentation including Land Title Certificate, certified site plan, deed of assignment, tax clearance certificate, and building permit.

Pay stamp duty to Ghana Revenue Authority. 

Registration costs at the Lands Commission range from GHS 2,000-5,000+ per acre. The Commission processes title registration through document verification, field inspection, public notice publication, and Land Title Certificate issuance.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Land fraud and title disputes represent Ghana’s most significant property risks. Never skip the Lands Commission search. Insist on viewing original documents. Verify the seller’s identity matches documents. Conduct physical site inspections. Avoid cash-only transactions. Use traceable bank transfers.

Work with Real Estate Agency Council registered agents. GREDA membership indicates adherence to quality standards. Always verify credentials before committing.

Partner with Landmark Homes

Ghana offers tremendous opportunity and welcoming communities. Landmark Homes specializes in guiding expats, returning diaspora, and international investors through every stage of relocation and property acquisition.

From identifying properties matching your needs to conducting thorough due diligence, coordinating with licensed professionals, facilitating smooth transactions, and providing ongoing support, Landmark Homes  stands as your reliable partner.

Ready to make your move to Ghana seamless and rewarding? Speak to Landmark Homes for expert guidance on renting or purchasing your ideal property, and access trusted relocation support tailored for your needs.

Ghana awaits with open arms and extraordinary possibilities. Your journey starts with understanding the market and continues with a trusted partner who prioritizes your success.