How to buy a house in Ghana?

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

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Ghana Property Pack

Who is the author of this content?

THEAFRICANVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in African countries (Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, etc.).

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Ghana. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At TheAfricanVestor, we explore the Ghana real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What are the main steps to legally buy a house in Ghana from start to finish?

The Ghana house buying process follows eight essential steps that ensure legal compliance and secure ownership.

You begin with research and budgeting to determine your purchase capacity and preferred locations. Next, engage licensed professionals including a real estate agent and property lawyer who will guide you through due diligence procedures.

The property search phase involves viewing houses and conducting thorough verification of land titles through the Lands Commission. Your lawyer will check for any encumbrances, disputes, or unpaid taxes on the property. Once you find a suitable house, submit an offer and negotiate terms including price and payment schedule.

Secure your financing through cash payment, bank mortgage, or developer installment plans. Your lawyer then drafts the sales contract and conducts a comprehensive title search before you sign the purchase agreement.

The final steps involve registering the property at the Lands Commission, obtaining all relevant documents including the title deed and tax clearance certificates, and taking possession of your new house.

Is it possible to buy a house in Ghana without physically being in the country?

Yes, you can successfully purchase a house in Ghana remotely through proper legal arrangements and digital processes.

Many real estate developers and agents now offer virtual property tours, online documentation, and video conferencing for international buyers. You can view properties, negotiate prices, and review contracts without traveling to Ghana.

However, you must appoint a trusted representative in Ghana through a power of attorney arrangement. This person will handle the physical aspects of the transaction including document signing, property inspection, and registration procedures at the Lands Commission.

Choose a reputable local lawyer or real estate professional to act as your representative. Ensure all agreements and power of attorney documents are properly notarized and legally binding.

Remote purchases require extra due diligence since you cannot personally inspect the property or verify documents, making professional representation essential for a secure transaction.

What documents are required to purchase a house in Ghana, both as a local and as a foreigner?

Both locals and foreigners need identical documentation when purchasing houses in Ghana, with no additional requirements for international buyers.

Document Type	Purpose	Obtained From
Land Title Certificate	Proves legal ownership of land	Lands Commission
Building Permit	Confirms legal construction approval	Local Authority
Site/Survey Plan	Shows exact property boundaries	Licensed Surveyor
Certificate of Occupancy	Permits residential use	Local Authority
Purchase Agreement	Legal contract between parties	Lawyer/Agent
Property Tax Clearance	Confirms taxes are current	Local Authority
Power of Attorney	For remote buyers only	Legal Professional

Are foreigners legally allowed to buy houses in Ghana, and are there any restrictions on ownership duration or land rights?

Foreigners enjoy full legal rights to purchase houses in Ghana with specific land tenure arrangements that provide long-term security.

You can buy houses and apartments outright with complete ownership rights. There are no restrictions on the number of properties foreigners can own in Ghana, making it an excellent destination for building a real estate portfolio.

Land ownership follows a leasehold system where foreigners can lease land for up to 50 years with renewal options. Ghanaian citizens can lease land for up to 99 years, but this difference doesn't affect house ownership rights. The 50-year lease provides sufficient time for investment returns and can be renewed before expiration.

Alternatively, foreigners can establish a Ghanaian company to purchase property, which may provide additional flexibility in certain situations.

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

What taxes, legal fees, agency fees, and other costs are involved in buying a house in Ghana, with a full breakdown?

The total cost of buying a house in Ghana includes the purchase price plus additional expenses ranging from 5-10% of the property value.

Cost Item	Rate/Amount	When Paid
Stamp Duty	0.5% of property value	At registration
Legal Fees	1-2% of purchase price	During contract phase
Agency Fees	3-5% of purchase price	At completion
Property Tax	0.5-3% annually	Ongoing after purchase
Valuation Fees	0.5% of property value	Before purchase
Registration Fees	Variable by property size	At Lands Commission
Utility Transfers	Connection fees vary	After purchase

Can foreigners obtain a mortgage to buy a house in Ghana, and under what conditions, interest rates, and tips to get approved?

Foreigners can obtain mortgages from Ghana banks, though requirements are stricter and interest rates higher than for local borrowers.

Banks typically require a 20-30% down payment for foreigners, often higher than the 10-15% required for Ghanaians. You need a stable income source, preferably from Ghana employment, and must maintain a local bank account for at least six months before application.

Current mortgage interest rates range from 15-25% annually as of mid-2025, significantly higher than international standards but reflecting local market conditions. Loan terms typically span 5-20 years, though banks may offer shorter terms for foreign borrowers to reduce risk.

Age requirements range from 21-60 years old at loan maturity. Banks require comprehensive documentation including employment letters, salary slips, bank statements, and proof of residency or investment intentions in Ghana.

Consider diaspora mortgage products if you're of Ghanaian descent, as these often offer better terms and lower interest rates for qualifying applicants.

Is it common and safe to buy a house in Ghana with cash, and are there any legal implications?

Cash purchases are extremely common in Ghana and can significantly expedite the buying process while avoiding mortgage complications.

Many buyers prefer cash transactions because they eliminate mortgage approval delays, reduce overall costs by avoiding interest payments, and strengthen negotiating positions with sellers. Cash buyers often secure better prices and faster closings.

However, cash purchases require heightened security measures and documentation. Always ensure transactions are properly documented with detailed receipts and contracts. Never pay large sums without legal safeguards in place, including signed purchase agreements and completed due diligence.

Use bank transfers or certified checks rather than physical cash for large amounts. Maintain records of all payments and ensure your lawyer oversees the transaction to prevent fraud or misunderstandings.

The legal implications are minimal as long as proper documentation and tax obligations are met, making cash purchases a viable and often preferred option in the Ghana market.

How reliable are real estate agents in Ghana, and what are the best ways to verify or find trustworthy ones?

Ghana real estate agents are increasingly professional and reliable since the 2020 Real Estate Agency Act established mandatory licensing requirements.

1. **Check agent licensing status** with the Real Estate Agency Council to ensure they're legally authorized to operate2. **Request client references** and contact previous buyers to verify successful transactions and professional conduct 3. **Verify professional affiliations** such as membership in the Ghana Real Estate Professionals Association4. **Use established property platforms** that pre-screen and verify agent credentials before listing5. **Meet agents in person** at their registered offices rather than relying solely on online communications6. **Review online testimonials** and ratings on property websites and social media platforms7. **Ask for detailed market knowledge** including current prices, neighborhood trends, and legal requirements

Licensed agents must maintain professional standards and follow ethical guidelines, providing greater security for buyers. Always work with agents who demonstrate thorough knowledge of local laws and can provide references from recent transactions.

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.

What are the most common scams or mistakes foreigners make when trying to buy a house in Ghana, and how can they be avoided?

Foreign buyers commonly fall victim to title fraud, fake agencies, and multiple sales schemes that can be avoided through proper verification procedures.

1. **Title fraud with forged documents** - Always verify land titles directly with the Lands Commission rather than trusting seller-provided copies2. **Fake real estate agencies** - Check agent licensing with the Real Estate Agency Council and verify office addresses3. **Multiple sales of same property** - Conduct thorough title searches to ensure the property isn't already sold or under dispute4. **Upfront payment scams** - Never pay large deposits without signed contracts and completed legal due diligence5. **Inflated prices for foreigners** - Research local market prices and use multiple agents to compare property values6. **Skipping legal representation** - Always hire independent lawyers rather than using seller-recommended legal services7. **Inadequate property inspection** - Inspect properties personally or through trusted representatives before purchase

Prevention requires working exclusively with licensed professionals, verifying all documents independently, and maintaining skepticism about deals that seem too good to be true. Never rush transactions or pay money without proper legal protection in place.

How long does the entire house-buying process usually take in Ghana, from offer to final registration?

The complete Ghana house buying process typically takes 1-3 months from initial offer to final property registration and handover.

The timeline breaks down into several phases: property search and due diligence (1-2 weeks), offer negotiation and contract preparation (1-2 weeks), financing arrangement if needed (2-4 weeks), and final registration with the Lands Commission (2-4 weeks).

Cash purchases generally complete faster than mortgage-financed transactions since they eliminate bank approval delays. Remote purchases may take longer due to power of attorney arrangements and international document verification requirements.

Delays commonly occur during title verification if documents are incomplete or disputed, during the registration process if the Lands Commission has backlogs, or if property inspections reveal issues requiring resolution.

Working with experienced professionals and ensuring all documentation is prepared in advance can significantly reduce timeline delays and ensure smooth transactions.

Does owning a house in Ghana give any path to residency or citizenship for foreigners?

Property ownership in Ghana does not automatically grant residency or citizenship rights to foreign buyers.

Ghana operates separate immigration and property ownership systems, meaning buying a house provides no direct pathway to legal residency status. You must apply for residency or citizenship through standard immigration procedures regardless of property ownership.

However, property ownership can support residency applications by demonstrating investment in Ghana and intention to remain long-term. Real estate assets may strengthen applications for investor visas or long-term residency permits.

Foreigners can apply for Ghanaian citizenship after residing legally in the country for at least five years, meeting language requirements, demonstrating good character, and fulfilling other citizenship criteria established by immigration law.

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

What are the most popular regions or neighborhoods where foreigners typically buy houses in Ghana, and why?

Foreign buyers concentrate in specific high-value areas that offer modern amenities, security, and strong rental potential for investment properties.

Accra dominates foreign real estate investment, particularly in East Legon, Airport Residential Area, Cantonments, and Ridge neighborhoods. These areas provide excellent infrastructure, international schools, shopping centers, and established expatriate communities that support both lifestyle and investment goals.

East Legon offers the highest concentration of luxury homes with modern amenities and strong appreciation potential. Airport Residential Area attracts buyers seeking proximity to Kotoka International Airport and diplomatic missions. Cantonments provides central location with government and business district access.

Kumasi's Ahodwo neighborhood attracts investors seeking lower entry prices with good growth potential in Ghana's second-largest city. The area benefits from commercial development and university proximity.

Emerging markets include Sunyani's New Dormaa area and expanding cities like Takoradi and Tamale, where infrastructure improvements and economic growth create investment opportunities at more accessible price points.

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. How to Buy a House in Ghana Complete Guide
2. First Time Property Buyers Ultimate Guide
3. Step by Step Guide Owning Property in Ghana
4. Can Foreigners Buy Property in Ghana Complete 2025 Guide
5. How to Verify Property Documents in Ghana
6. Property Documentation in Ghana
7. Ghana Real Estate for Foreigners
8. Buying a House in Ghana What You Need to Know
9. Navigating Legal Hurdles Foreign Investors Ghana
10. Guidelines for Foreigners Buying Property in Ghana