How to Buy an Apartment in Accra: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: How much can you afford?

Start with the full cost of ownership, not only the purchase price:

• Purchase price and the payment schedule (lump sum or instalments).
• Legal fees for your own lawyer.
• Registration and stamp duty costs payable on your lease.
• Service charges for maintenance, security and shared amenities.
• Furnishing and move-in costs.

If you are using a mortgage or a staged payment plan, confirm the total you will pay, the currency of payment, and what happens if a payment is late.

Step 2: What should you look for in a development?

Shortlist developments that fit how you live:

• Location: commute, schools, healthcare, shopping and access to the airport or business districts.
• Unit types: one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments, or a penthouse.
• Design and quality: natural light, ventilation, layout, finishes and storage.
• Amenities and management: what is included, and who runs the building after completion.

Visit the site, not just the sales office, and ask how far construction has progressed.

Step 3: How do you verify the developer and the land?

This is the most important step. Ask for, and have your lawyer check:

1. Title to the land. The developer should be able to show how it holds the land and how your lease will be derived from that title.
2. An official search at the Lands Commission. This confirms the registered position of the land and reveals competing interests.
3. Planning and building permits from the relevant Metropolitan, Municipal or District Assembly for the project.
4. The developer's track record and company details.

If you are dealing with an agent or broker, check that they are licensed by Ghana's Real Estate Agency Council, as required by the Real Estate Agency Act, 2020 (Act 1047).

Step 4: What should the sale and purchase agreement include?

Your lawyer should review the agreement before you sign. Look for:

• An exact description of your unit, its floor area and specification.
• The lease term you will receive and when it begins.
• The price, payment schedule and currency.
• Completion and handover terms, and what happens if they change.
• Service charge arrangements and building management.
• What happens if either party cannot complete, including refunds.
• Defects — who fixes them after handover, and for how long.

Step 5: How should you pay?

Pay only through traceable channels: bank transfer, cheque or bank draft. The Real Estate Agency Act, 2020 prohibits licensed brokers and agents from accepting cash for real estate transactions, and it is good practice whoever you pay. Keep every receipt and match each payment to the agreed schedule.

Step 6: How do you complete and register?

On completion you receive your lease documents. Registration with the Lands Commission records your interest and protects you against competing claims, so make sure the agreement is clear about who prepares and files the registration, and when. Keep certified copies of everything.

Step 7: What happens after you get the keys?

• Inspect the apartment carefully and record any defects in writing.
• Confirm the handover pack: keys, access cards, manuals and warranties.
• Understand the building rules and the service charge schedule.
• Insure your contents (and the building, if your lease requires it).

Ready to take the first step?

If you are considering Prime Accra in Airport Residential Area, our team can walk you through the residence types, the process and the documentation. Book a viewing or consultation and bring your questions — and your lawyer.