Accra Property Due Diligence: A 2025 Buyer’s Checklist
Accra property due diligence is your first line of defense before you commit funds. It verifies the true owner, confirms what you saw on site matches official records, and highlights issues early so you can negotiate with confidence. Consequently, you reduce risk, avoid delays, and protect your budget.
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What Due Diligence Confirms (Ownership, Boundaries, Approvals)
Start by confirming the legal owner. Request a recent search at the Lands Commission, then match the names, plot number, site plan, and indenture. Next, check planning and zoning approvals with the relevant municipal authority to ensure the intended use is permitted. Finally, make sure building permits and completion certificates exist where applicable.
Accra Property Due Diligence: Documents, Searches, and Site Checks
- Title & search: Obtain an official search report and confirm there are no liens, cautions, or litigation.
- Site plan & beacons: Compare beacons on the ground with the approved site plan; verify dimensions and orientation.
- Planning/zoning: Confirm the planning scheme allows your intended use and store a copy of any approvals.
- Utilities: Verify water, electricity, and drainage connections or feasibility, including any outstanding charges.
- Taxes & levies: Request property rate receipts and check for arrears before purchase.
- Seller KYC: Capture valid ID, TIN, and proof of address; for companies, collect incorporation documents and board resolutions.
Contracts, Payments, and Registration (Protecting Your Position)
Use a written Agreement for Sale with clear timelines, deliverables, and a closing checklist. Moreover, make deposits traceable, attach the approved site plan, and include a completion statement listing all documents to be handed over. After completion, register the transfer promptly to perfect your interest.
Common Red Flags (Pause and Recheck Before You Proceed)
- Conflicting owner names or multiple “owners” presenting different documents.
- Unaligned site plan and beacons or missing beacons entirely.
- Unapproved building works or a land use that contradicts local planning policy.
- Outstanding property rates, utility arrears, or disputes with neighbours.
Costs and Timelines (Plan for Searches, Legal, and Registration)
Budget realistically for searches, legal drafting, stamps, and registration fees. In many cases, timing depends on queue volumes at public offices; therefore, start early and keep certified copies of everything. For complex cases, escalate to an experienced conveyancer to maintain momentum and clarity.
Work With a Local Team That Lives This Process
We guide buyers through every verification step—documents, office searches, and on-site checks—then coordinate closing and registration. For support, reach out via our contact page or review our services.
Helpful resource: Ghana Revenue Authority (general tax information; see local assembly for property rate specifics).
FAQs: Due Diligence for Buying Property in Accra
What is the first document to verify?
Begin with a title search at the Lands Commission, then match the results with the seller’s documents and the site plan.
How do I confirm the site plan matches the land?
Locate the beacons on the ground and measure sides to match the plan. If anything is unclear, request a licensed surveyor to reconfirm.
Do I need planning or zoning checks if I’m buying a house?
Yes. Planning checks confirm the use is permitted and that the structure complies with local regulations.
When should I pay the deposit?
Only after satisfactory checks and a signed Agreement for Sale that defines conditions, timelines, and deliverables.
Who registers the transfer after completion?
Your conveyancer should file promptly and provide evidence of submission and eventual registration for your records.
Speak to SPHYNX: Book a consultation.
