Property management for overseas owners in Accra covers the work you cannot do from abroad, such as collecting rent and arranging a repair. This guide lists what a manager does, how fees work, what to ask before you hire and how to keep control from a distance.
Property Management for Overseas Owners in Accra: What a Manager Does
- Markets the unit and finds tenants
- Screens tenants and checks references
- Drafts the tenancy agreement
- Collects rent and the deposit
- Arranges repairs and pays the service charge
- Inspects the unit and sends photo reports
- Manages the exit and returns the unit ready to let
How Fees Work
Managers charge in one of three ways. Some take a percentage of rent collected. Some charge a flat monthly fee. Some charge a letting fee for each new tenant plus a monthly fee. Ask for the full fee list in writing, including charges for repairs and renewals.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
- How long have you managed apartments in Airport Residential?
- Will you give me two current owners to call?
- Where do you hold rent before you pay me?
- What repair amount do you approve without asking me?
- How often do you send reports and photos?
- What happens when a tenant stops paying?
- What insurance do you hold?
Keep Control from a Distance
- Hold the tenancy agreement and utility accounts in your name
- Set a repair limit and require approval above it
- Ask for rent to arrive in a separate account with a statement each month
- Request inspection photos each quarter
- Keep records of rent for tax and repatriation
Building Management Is Not Unit Management
A managed building looks after common areas, security and shared services through the service charge. Your own unit still needs a landlord. A property manager fills this role for owners who live elsewhere. Ask the building manager how both teams coordinate on access and repairs.
Money and Tax
Rental income is taxable. Ask your accountant how the rules apply to you in Ghana and in your home country. See our guides to property taxes for foreign investors and repatriating income from Ghana.
Signs of a Good Manager
- A full fee list in writing
- Rent held in a separate client account
- Written reports with photos on a set schedule
- Local references from current owners
- Fast replies to your messages and to tenants
- A clear process for late rent
A Monthly Routine for Owners Abroad
Review the rent statement. Check the service charge is paid. Approve repairs above your limit. Look at inspection photos each quarter. File receipts and statements for tax. The Ghana Revenue Authority sets the filing rules, so ask your accountant for the dates which apply to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a manager for one studio?
If you live abroad, usually yes. Someone must handle tenants and repairs in Accra.
How do I receive rent abroad?
Managers usually send rent by bank transfer after fees. Keep statements for tax and repatriation records.
Who pays for repairs?
The owner pays for repairs to the unit. Set an approval limit so small repairs do not wait for your reply.
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.