Ghana is located in West Africa on the Gulf of Guinea, which is part of the Atlantic Ocean. The country is stable, especially compared to its neighbors. The extensive coastline and industrial enterprises in the interior of the country provide an influx of both tourists and specialists coming to the country for permanent residence.
Peculiarities of Property for Sale in Ghana
Unlike many countries, in Ghana land is not sold outright to foreigners. Instead, foreign buyers take out a long-term leasehold for up to 50 years. This only applies to the land; the building on it becomes the full property. This is due to the traditional land tenure system, where a significant portion of the land is owned by local communities or chiefs (stool land). For a successful transaction, it is important to involve a lawyer who will check the purity of the land titles and confirm the consent of the local chief to the transaction.
Real estate in Ghana for foreigners is upon presentation of a passport and proof of financial solvency. After the conclusion of the purchase and sale agreement, the buyer pays a property transfer tax: 8% for residential property and up to 15% for commercial property.
Additionally, a stamp duty is charged at the Ghana Land Commission, after which a Title Deed is issued.
To minimize risks when buying real estate in Ghana, it is recommended to cooperate with licensed realtors registered with the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA) - there are cases of fraud in the country with the sale of land without proper registration.
Real Estate Prices in Ghana
Property prices in Ghana vary by region. Demand is primarily for private homes and townhouses, especially in tourist areas. In Accra, a one-bedroom apartment in a prestigious area costs around $25,000 for 30–40 sq. m., while 3–4 bedroom houses in the suburbs cost $60,000–$80,000. Villas on the coast start at $100,000 and up.
Average cost of housing in Ghana:
| City |
Property type |
Average cost ($) |
Average price per sq.m ($) |
| Accra |
One-room apartment |
25,000 |
833 |
| Accra |
House (3 bedrooms) |
70,000 |
700 |
| Kumasi |
Townhouse (3 bedrooms) |
45,000 |
600 |
| Topic |
Villa by the coast |
100,000+ |
1000+ |
| Takoradi |
House (4 bedrooms) |
60,000 |
667 |
The secondary real estate market is less developed than the primary one, but you can buy real estate in Ghana at a price 15-20% lower. For example, houses on the secondary market in Kumasi cost about $40,000 for 80-100 sq.m. However, such properties often require repairs and are located in places with not the best infrastructure.
Which Regions of to Buy Housing in Ghana
Traditionally, the country's capital, Accra, holds first place in popularity. International companies, embassies, and elite residential complexes are concentrated here. Popular areas include Cantonments, Airport Residential Area, and Labone.
Other popular cities in Ghana:
- Kumasi. The cultural capital of the Ashanti region. Housing here is cheaper than in Accra, but due to the small supply, it is predicted that in 2-3 years the prices will be equal to those in the capital.
- Topic. A port city 25 km from Accra. The city is mostly industrial, but has recently been developed as a tourist destination.
- Takoradi. Oil and gas hub in western Ghana: Influx of expatriate talent boosts demand long term rental housing in Ghana. The city does not have any tourist potential yet, but there is active construction of villas.
- Cape Coast. A historic city with a rich colonial heritage and developed tourist infrastructure. Here you can buy housing in Ghana for rent. Villas and apartments near the coast are especially popular.
