Buying real estate in Ghana?

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Buying property in Accra: is it worth it?

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Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Ghana Property Pack

property investment Accra

Yes, the analysis of Accra's property market is included in our pack

Accra's property market offers compelling opportunities with annual appreciation of 5-10% in prime areas and rental yields reaching 9-12%.

Properties in established neighborhoods like East Legon and Spintex command $200,000-$600,000, while emerging areas provide entry points from $70,000, making the market accessible to various investor profiles despite financing challenges and title risks.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Ghana, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How much do properties cost right now in Accra, broken down by area and property type?

As of September 2025, Accra's property prices vary significantly across neighborhoods and property types.

Prime neighborhoods like East Legon, Cantonments, and Airport Residential command the highest prices. Three-bedroom houses in these areas cost $450,000-$600,000, while high-end apartments range from $250,000-$400,000. Luxury villas exceed $1 million.

Established mid-market areas including Spintex, Adenta, and Ridge offer more accessible pricing. Two-bedroom apartments cost $150,000-$300,000, and three-bedroom houses range from $250,000-$500,000. These areas provide good value for money with strong rental demand.

Emerging suburbs and entry-level markets like Tema Community 25, Amasaman, and Kasoa present the most affordable options. Entry-level apartments and houses start from $70,000-$150,000, making them attractive for first-time buyers and budget-conscious investors.

The average price per square meter in central Accra stands at approximately $1,520, reflecting the city's growing status as West Africa's commercial hub.

What are the short-term price trends over the past one to three years?

Accra's property market has experienced steady appreciation over the past three years, with prime areas showing annual growth of 5-10%.

Since 2020, premium zones have registered a cumulative increase of 20-25%, driven by rapid urbanization, infrastructure upgrades, and sustained foreign investment. The housing deficit continues to support price growth across all segments.

Mid-market areas have seen more modest but consistent appreciation of 3-7% annually, while emerging suburbs have experienced stronger growth of 8-12% as infrastructure development reaches these previously overlooked areas.

The market has remained resilient despite global economic challenges, with demand from both local professionals and expatriate communities maintaining upward pressure on prices. Government infrastructure projects, including road expansions and utility improvements, have particularly benefited areas like Spintex and Tema Community 25.

It's something we develop in our Ghana property pack.

What are the medium-term forecasts for property values over the next five years?

Medium-term projections for Accra's property market remain optimistic, with continued annual growth of 8-10% expected in prime areas and growth suburbs.

Area Category Projected Annual Growth Total 5-Year Return Potential Key Growth Drivers
Prime Areas (East Legon, Cantonments) 8-10% 15-22% (including rent) Infrastructure expansion, expatriate demand
Mid-Market (Spintex, Adenta) 6-8% 12-18% Middle-class growth, accessibility improvements
Emerging Suburbs (Tema 25, Amasaman) 10-12% 18-25% New infrastructure, affordability
Growth Corridors (Ayi Mensah, Adjiringanor) 12-15% 20-28% Development projects, land scarcity
Luxury Segment (Premium villas) 7-9% 14-20% High-net-worth demand, limited supply

Infrastructure expansion remains the primary catalyst for growth, with government commitments to road networks, utilities, and public services expected to unlock value in currently underserved areas.

The total return potential, combining capital gains and rental income, could reach 15-22% annually in top-performing areas, making Accra competitive with other emerging market property investments.

What is the long-term outlook for property appreciation beyond ten years?

The long-term outlook for Accra's property market extends beyond a decade with strong fundamentals supporting continued appreciation.

Land scarcity in prime locations will increasingly drive value, as available developable land becomes limited in established neighborhoods like East Legon and Cantonments. This scarcity factor should support premium pricing for well-located properties.

Ghana's demographic trends favor continued property demand, with a growing urban middle class and increasing foreign investment in the country's economy. The expatriate community, particularly from other African countries and international organizations, provides sustained rental demand.

However, long-term success depends on macroeconomic stability, governance quality, and continued infrastructure development. Political stability and currency management will be crucial factors in maintaining investor confidence.

Compounding returns over 10+ years could be substantial for premium properties, but investors must factor in political risks, currency volatility, and the need for periodic maintenance and upgrades to maintain competitiveness.

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How do rental yields compare across different areas and property types?

Rental yields in Accra vary significantly by location and property type, with some areas delivering double-digit returns.

East Legon and Spintex lead with gross rental yields of 9-10%, combining strong rental demand with reasonable property prices. These areas benefit from excellent infrastructure, security, and proximity to business districts.

Emerging suburbs like Tema Community 25 offer the highest yields at 8-12%, particularly for quality properties that meet modern standards. The lower purchase prices combined with growing rental demand create attractive returns for investors.

Premium areas like Airport Residential and Cantonments deliver yields of 7-9%, with lower percentage returns offset by stronger capital appreciation potential. These areas attract high-paying tenants, including expatriates and senior professionals.

Short-term rental opportunities through platforms like Airbnb show potential, with top 10% of properties achieving 78%+ occupancy rates, though the median property achieves only 34% occupancy, requiring careful selection and management.

What are the current occupancy and vacancy rates in Accra's main neighborhoods?

Occupancy rates in Accra's prime neighborhoods remain strong, reflecting sustained rental demand from professionals and expatriates.

Long-term lettings in prime neighborhoods like East Legon, Cantonments, and Airport Residential maintain occupancy rates of 85-95%. These areas benefit from proximity to international organizations, embassies, and major corporations.

Mid-market areas including Spintex and Adenta achieve occupancy rates of 80-90%, with slightly higher vacancy during economic downturns but generally maintaining strong tenant demand due to affordability and accessibility.

Emerging suburbs with quality properties can achieve 90%+ occupancy, particularly where modern amenities and security are provided. However, older or poorly maintained properties in these areas may struggle with higher vacancy rates.

The short-term rental market shows more variability, with successful properties in prime locations achieving high occupancy while others struggle to reach viable rates. Professional management and strategic pricing are crucial for success in this segment.

How do the costs of owning and maintaining property vary by area and type?

Property ownership costs in Accra extend well beyond the purchase price, with significant variations across areas and property types.

Property taxes range from 0.5-3% of property value annually, with premium areas typically assessed at around 1%. Service charges and homeowners association fees cost GHS 500-2,000 monthly, depending on amenities and security provisions.

Utilities and hidden expenses add $200-$500 monthly in prime zones, including generator fuel, water storage, internet, and backup services. These costs reflect infrastructure limitations that property owners must address privately.

The total annual ownership cost for a typical apartment in a good area ranges from GHS 30,000-55,000, including taxes, service charges, utilities, and basic maintenance. Premium properties with extensive amenities can exceed these figures significantly.

It's something we develop in our Ghana property pack.

What financing options and average mortgage rates are available in Accra?

Financing options in Ghana present both opportunities and challenges for property buyers, with significant rate differences between local and foreign currency loans.

  1. Ghana Cedi Mortgages: Interest rates of 21-24% as of 2025, with loan-to-value ratios up to 90% and terms extending to 15-20 years depending on borrower age and income.
  2. US Dollar Mortgages: Available at 10.5-11.5% interest for eligible foreigners or dollar earners, with loan-to-value ratios typically capped at 80%.
  3. Developer Financing: Some developers offer payment plans and financing arrangements, often with more flexible terms than traditional banks.
  4. International Lenders: Foreign banks may provide financing for qualified borrowers, particularly those with international income sources.
  5. Cash Purchases: Many transactions occur through cash purchases, offering negotiation advantages and avoiding financing costs.

The high cedi interest rates make mortgage financing challenging for local buyers, while dollar financing remains limited to qualified individuals with foreign currency income or substantial collateral.

infographics rental yields citiesAccra

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Ghana versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Which areas are best positioned for buying to live in versus buying to rent out or resell?

Different areas in Accra serve different investment strategies, with clear distinctions between lifestyle and investment-focused locations.

For personal residence, East Legon and Cantonments offer the best combination of security, amenities, international schools, and lifestyle conveniences. These areas provide excellent quality of life for families and professionals, with established infrastructure and services.

For buy-to-let investments, East Legon, Spintex, Tema Community 25, and Airport Residential deliver the strongest rental yields. These areas combine reasonable purchase prices with high rental demand from both locals and expatriates.

For resale and long-term capital appreciation, Ridge, Cantonments, Airport Residential, and emerging growth corridors like Ayi Mensah and Adjiringanor show the most promise. These areas benefit from land scarcity, ongoing development, and infrastructure improvements.

Growth corridors present opportunities for higher returns but require careful timing and market knowledge to maximize appreciation potential while managing development risks.

What budgets realistically open the door to apartments, townhouses, or standalone homes in each neighborhood?

Budget requirements vary significantly across Accra's neighborhoods, with entry points ranging from $50,000 to over $1 million depending on location and property type.

Neighborhood Apartments Townhouses Standalone Homes
East Legon $200,000-$350,000 $300,000-$500,000 $500,000-$600,000+
Cantonments/Airport $250,000-$400,000 $400,000-$600,000 $600,000-$1,000,000+
Spintex/Adenta $120,000-$200,000 $180,000-$250,000 $200,000-$350,000
Tema Community 25 $80,000-$150,000 $150,000-$300,000 $180,000-$350,000
Suburbs/Kasoa $50,000-$120,000 $120,000-$200,000 $120,000-$220,000

These budget ranges reflect current market conditions and quality expectations, with premium finishes and amenities commanding higher prices within each category.

How liquid is the market—how long does it usually take to resell a property in Accra?

Property liquidity in Accra varies significantly by location, pricing, and property condition, with realistic timelines ranging from months to over a year.

Prime areas like East Legon, Cantonments, and Airport Residential typically see resale periods of 3-6 months for well-priced, quality properties. These areas benefit from consistent buyer demand and established market recognition.

Mid-market areas may require 6-12 months for successful sales, depending on market conditions and property competitiveness. Proper pricing and presentation are crucial for maintaining reasonable sale timelines.

Emerging suburbs and entry-level markets can experience longer sale periods, particularly for overpriced or poorly maintained properties. Market knowledge and realistic pricing become essential for successful transactions.

Modern apartments and homes with good security, amenities, and proper documentation sell faster than older properties requiring significant updates or having title complications. Professional marketing and staging can significantly reduce sale timelines across all market segments.

What are the main risks to consider if buying now, and how can you position yourself to minimize them?

Property investment in Accra involves several risks that require careful consideration and mitigation strategies.

  1. Title and Legal Risks: Conduct thorough due diligence at the Lands Commission, use qualified property lawyers, and verify all legal documents before purchase. Title disputes remain a significant concern in Ghana's property market.
  2. Currency and Interest Rate Risks: Consider USD-priced properties for partial protection against cedi devaluation, but understand that currency risk remains a factor for all Ghana-based investments.
  3. Construction and Developer Risks: Buy only from reputable developers with proven track records, proper permits, and completed projects. Verify construction quality and finishing standards before committing.
  4. Market Volatility: Diversify across locations and property segments, avoid speculative high-supply areas, and focus on fundamentally strong locations with sustained demand drivers.
  5. Maintenance Cost Inflation: Budget comprehensively for all ownership costs beyond the purchase price, including utilities, service charges, and unexpected maintenance requirements.

Prudent buyers minimize risks by using trusted professionals, conducting comprehensive due diligence, budgeting realistically for total ownership costs, and staying informed about market trends and infrastructure developments.

It's something we develop in our Ghana property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. Ghana Property Market Price Analysis - Vaal
  2. Accra Price Forecasts - The African Vestor
  3. Guide to Buying a Home in Accra - Eden Heights
  4. Ghana Price Forecasts - The African Vestor
  5. Apartment Investment Accra Worth It - The African Vestor
  6. Top 5 Neighbourhoods to Buy Property in Accra - Vaal
  7. Building vs Buying in Ghana 2025 Analysis - Quao Realty
  8. Navigating Accra's Rental Market - Ghana Property Finder
  9. How to Avoid Risks in Accra Real Estate - Estate Masters Ghana
  10. Real Estate Investment Risks in Ghana - Vaal