Ghanaians abroad buying property in Accra often plan for years and stall at the first step. This timeline shows each stage from first enquiry to keys, and what you do at each one.
Stage 1: Set Your Goal and Budget
Decide what the apartment is for. A home for family, rental income and a base for a future return call for different units. Then set a budget in your own currency and add the costs of buying to the price. Our price guide shows what apartments cost in Airport Residential in 2026.
Stage 2: Shortlist Developments
Compare location, developer record and unit types. Ask each developer for floor plans, a price list, a payment plan and the service charge. Ask for a video walkthrough of the show unit if you cannot visit.
Stage 3: Appoint Your Own Lawyer
Hire a lawyer who works for you, not for the developer. If you are unable to travel, a lawyer holding a power of attorney is able to sign for you. Read our power of attorney guide before you sign one. Keep the mandate narrow and name the development and the unit.
Stage 4: Reserve the Unit
You reserve a unit with a fee and a reservation agreement. Pay into a law firm or escrow account. Never pay into a personal account. Our guide to property scams in Ghana lists the warning signs.
Stage 5: Review the Sales and Purchase Agreement
Your lawyer reads every clause. Check the payment milestones, the handover date, the penalty for late delivery and the defects period. See our guides to the sales and purchase agreement and milestone payment plans.
Stage 6: Pay in Milestones and Follow Construction
Pay each milestone against a written demand. Keep every receipt and bank record. Ask for dated progress photos. Send a relative or your lawyer to inspect the site when a milestone falls due. Transfer records matter later, because you need them to bring rental income out of Ghana. See how to repatriate property income.
Stage 7: Handover and Registration
Inspect the unit before you accept the keys. List defects in writing and agree a date for repairs. Your lawyer then registers your interest at the Lands Commission. Our guide explains how to verify a title. Registration times vary, so ask your lawyer for an estimate.
Freehold or Leasehold for Ghanaians Abroad Buying Property in Accra
Ghanaian citizens are able to hold freehold interests in land. Non-citizens hold leasehold interests of up to 50 years. Confirm your status with your lawyer, especially if you hold more than one nationality. Read our leasehold guide for the detail.
Documents to Prepare Before You Start
Your lawyer and the developer will ask for identification, proof of address and proof of funds. Prepare scans of your passport or Ghana Card, a recent utility bill and bank statements. Banks ask for the source of funds on larger transfers. Having these ready saves time at each stage. The Lands Commission handles land registration in Ghana, so ask your lawyer which forms apply to your purchase.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Paying before you read the sales and purchase agreement
- Using the developer lawyer as your own
- Sending money to a personal account
- Skipping a site visit by someone you trust
- Ignoring the service charge
- Assuming the price includes VAT
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to travel to Ghana to buy an apartment?
Not always. Many buyers work through a lawyer and a power of attorney and view the show unit by video. Visit before handover if you are able.
Which currency do I pay in?
Prime developments price in US dollars. Confirm the currency, the exchange terms and the account details in the agreement.
How long does a purchase take?
Time depends on the stage of the building. A completed unit transfers faster than an off-plan unit, which follows the construction schedule.
Talk to Our Team
Regalia by Imaani Homes offers studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences and penthouses in Airport Residential, Accra. Studios start from USD 107,000, VAT included. Visit the Regalia page or WhatsApp +233 595 959595.