Why You Need to Understand the Process
Buying property in Ghana—whether for residential, commercial, or investment purposes—can be rewarding. But without the right knowledge, it can also lead to costly mistakes. From due diligence to title registration, understanding the full property buying process in Ghana is essential for locals and the diaspora alike.
This 2025 guide walks you through each step to help you make confident, informed decisions.
1. Define Your Budget and Purpose
Before anything else, clarify:
- Your budget (including agent fees, legal fees, taxes, etc.)
- Your purpose (living, renting out, reselling, land banking)
Pro Tip: Always allocate an extra 10–15% for hidden costs like surveys, documentation, and registration.
2. Choose the Right Property or Land
Options include:
- Residential homes or apartments
- Plots of land (serviced or unserviced)
- Commercial spaces
Work with licensed real estate brokers like Scarcity Properties who understand the local market and provide verified listings.
3. Conduct Due Diligence
This is the most crucial step. You must verify:
- Ownership: Is the seller the rightful owner?
- Title status: Is it leasehold or freehold?
- Encumbrances: Are there court disputes or mortgages on the property?
- Zoning regulations: Is the land for residential, commercial, or agricultural use?
Where to verify:
- Lands Commission (for land title)
- Survey Department (for site plans and demarcation)
- Town and Country Planning Department (for land use)
Tip: Hire a qualified land surveyor or real estate lawyer to do this for you.
4. Negotiate and Agree on Terms
Once verified, agree with the seller on:
- Final price
- Payment terms (outright, installments)
- Timeline for handing over documents and possession
Always have a written sales agreement prepared by a legal expert. Avoid verbal agreements.
5. Pay and Receive a Receipt
Make payments through traceable means (bank transfer or cheque). Request:
- A receipt
- A signed sale and purchase agreement
- A copy of the land or property document
Never pay 100% upfront without any formal paperwork.
6. Transfer and Register the Title
Now it’s time to make it official:
- Stool Lands or Customary Lands: Get a land lease agreement signed by the chief or custodian, witnessed by the Lands Commission.
- State Lands: Obtain a lease from the Lands Commission.
- Private Lands: Ensure the owner signs a deed of assignment or sale.
Registration Process:
- Submit documents to the Lands Commission
- Pay required stamp duty and fees
- Obtain Title Certificate (this can take several months)
7. Obtain Site Plan and Boundary Markings
Have the land surveyed and marked to avoid future disputes. The site plan must:
- Match the one submitted to the Lands Commission
- Be signed by a licensed surveyor
8. Build or Move In
Once the property is legally yours:
- Apply for a building permit (if it’s land)
- Get utility connections (water, electricity)
- Begin construction or move in
Bonus: How to Avoid Common Scams
- Never buy land “in the bush” without verifying boundaries
- Don’t trust agents who rush you into a deal
- Always involve a lawyer
- Check for duplicate sales (common with unregistered lands)
The property buying process in Ghana involves legal, technical, and financial steps that must be followed carefully. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an investor, working with professional brokers like Scarcity Properties ensures you avoid fraud and secure your investment with confidence.
