Buying a house is one of the biggest financial decisions anyone can make. In Ghana, the process can feel exciting but also intimidating — whether you’re a first-time buyer, an investor from abroad, or a Ghanaian living in the diaspora looking to own property back home.
So, how do you buy a house in Ghana without stress, scams, or overspending? In this guide, I’ll walk you through the full process, from searching for homes to financing, legal paperwork, and practical tips you must not ignore. Let’s dive in.
Why Buying a House in Ghana Is a Big Deal
Real estate in Ghana has become one of the most attractive investment options in West Africa. According to Knight Frank’s Africa Report 2023, demand for urban housing in Accra, Tema, Kumasi, and Takoradi has been rising steadily, especially among the growing middle class and Ghanaians abroad.
Property prices in Accra, for example, can range anywhere from USD 35,000 for modest suburban houses to over USD 500,000 for luxury homes in East Legon, Airport Residential, or Cantonments. That means the market caters to everyone — but you need to know how to navigate it properly.
Step 1: Decide What Kind of House You Want
Before you even talk to an agent or check a listing, you should be clear on what type of property suits your needs and budget. Common options include:
- Standalone houses (popular in suburbs like Adenta, Oyarifa, Pokuase, Kasoa).
- Townhouses & gated communities (common in East Legon Hills, Spintex, Tema).
- Apartments & condos (rising fast in Accra Central, Airport Residential, Cantonments).
- Commercial or mixed-use properties (for those considering investment).
💡 Tip: Make a checklist: location, budget, size, access to schools, hospitals, or work. It’ll help you narrow your search.
Step 2: Research Property Prices
Understanding property prices in Ghana is crucial. Unlike in some Western countries, there isn’t always a centralized database for house prices. However, websites like:
- meQasa (the biggest real estate marketplace in Ghana),
- Tonaton, and
- Ghana Property Centre
…can give you a good idea of current listings.
For example (2025 data):
- Kasoa / Adenta (Suburbs): $30,000 – $70,000
- Spintex / Tema: $70,000 – $150,000
- East Legon / Cantonments / Airport Hills: $200,000 – $500,000+
📊 According to the Ghana Statistical Service, urban housing demand is projected to grow by 40% over the next decade. This means prices in hotspot areas will keep rising.
Step 3: Get the Right Real Estate Agent (or Be Extra Careful Without One)
Unfortunately, property fraud is still a problem in Ghana. Many buyers (especially diaspora returnees) have lost thousands of dollars to fake agents or “middlemen.”
- If you hire an agent, make sure they’re registered with the Ghana Real Estate Agency Council (GREAC).
- Ask for references, check their office, and never make cash payments directly to an individual.
Alternatively, you can work directly with developers in gated communities or trusted agencies like Devtraco, Regimanuel Gray, Trasacco, Lakeside Estate, etc.
Step 4: Financing — Cash or Mortgage?
Here’s the reality: most houses in Ghana are paid for in cash. Mortgages exist, but they are still relatively expensive compared to the U.S. or U.K.
Option A: Paying in Cash
- Common for Ghanaians abroad sending remittances.
- Developers sometimes offer installment plans (spread across 1–5 years).
Option B: Mortgage in Ghana
Several banks provide mortgages, including:
- Ghana Home Loans (now First National Bank Ghana)
- Stanbic Bank Ghana
- Ecobank Ghana
Rates range between 15% – 25% annually depending on inflation and lending policies. (Source: Bank of Ghana)
💡 If you’re in the diaspora, check if your bank has a diaspora mortgage package. For example, Stanbic offers one for Ghanaians working abroad.
Step 5: Do a Proper Land Title Search
This step cannot be skipped! In Ghana, land ownership disputes are common. Before making payments:
- Go to the Lands Commission (Accra, Kumasi, or your district office).
- Request a land title search to confirm the seller is the legitimate owner.
- Ensure the land is not under litigation, double-sold, or government-acquired.
🚨 Skipping this step is how people lose money to scammers. Always verify first.
Step 6: Hire a Lawyer
A real estate lawyer in Ghana is essential to handle contracts, draft agreements, and make sure your transaction is legal.
- Lawyers will help prepare the Deed of Assignment or Indenture.
- They’ll also confirm the seller’s documents: site plan, land title certificate, building permits.
Yes, it costs extra (typically 1–2% of property value), but it’s worth every cedi.
Step 7: Sign Sales Agreement & Make Payment Safely
Once your lawyer gives the green light:
- Sign a sales and purchase agreement.
- Pay through a bank transfer, never by cash handover.
- Keep official receipts and photocopies of all documents.
Step 8: Register Your Property
After purchase, register the house in your name at the Lands Commission. Registration protects you from future disputes.
- You’ll receive a Land Title Certificate with your name as the legal owner.
- Registration costs vary, but budget about 1–2% of the property’s value.
Step 9: Factor in Extra Costs
Apart from the house price itself, keep in mind:
- Stamp Duty – between 0.25% and 1% of property value.
- Legal Fees – 1–2% of the price.
- Registration Fees – around 1–2%.
- Agent Commission – if used, typically 5%.
So if you’re buying a $100,000 house, budget at least $110,000 to cover all extra charges.
Step 10: Move In (or Rent It Out!)
Finally, the fun part — moving into your new home! If you bought it as an investment, Ghana’s rental market is strong.
- In Accra, a 2–bedroom apartment in Airport Residential can rent for $800–$1,500 per month.
- In suburbs, rents are lower ($150–$400), but demand is high.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a House in Ghana
- Skipping due diligence – not verifying land title or ownership.
- Paying cash to individuals – always use bank transfers.
- Not budgeting for extra costs – legal, stamp duty, registration.
- Trusting family/friends blindly – many Ghanaians abroad have lost money by sending funds without personal checks.
- Rushing the process – take your time; Ghana real estate is long-term.
Final Thoughts
Buying a house in Ghana in 2025 is absolutely possible — and rewarding — but it requires caution, patience, and the right team. Whether you’re looking at houses for sale in Accra, gated communities in Tema, or affordable properties in Kasoa, the key steps remain the same: research, verify, and protect yourself legally.
🏡 In short: Decide what you want, confirm ownership, hire a lawyer, and never pay until you’re 100% sure.
With the right approach, your dream of owning property in Ghana can become a reality — without the nightmares of fraud or overspending.
