Lands near big cities are trouble, buy a completed house instead. Other than that, buy land from chiefs or stools far away from big cities and avoid third parties. Just purchased 4 plots of land (100x100) each for less that $7000 with receipt and indentures. Don’t be discouraged, do it the right way and you’ll have a piece of mind.
You 2 commentors must be new here. She came back to Ghana when the airports opened and spent about a week or two maybe. And she has been able to produce great content. You know what. I am not going to explain to newcomers. Watch all her most recent videos and come back here and read your comments.
@@kelikumassah since we're not new and know she has been producing great content for ghana before she left and her father is ghanaian and she has explained that there's no need to explain or be surprised that she is good at what she does. thanks but we're not asking you to elaborate, we're telling you you're wrong.
I hear you but this is why if any of us are gonna do it we need to do it professionally I.e.get a lawyer. Don't be discouraged but yes there are protocols and it must be done correctly.
Great interview Vanessa. My personal experience in buying land which is currently in litigation. I did my due diligence went through land commission and all the appropriate quarters and had it duly registered and now there are three claimants all showing "documentations" . The bane of all the land issues is corruption from all sectors, i.e land commission, to chiefs, stools and private entities. Why we cannot amalgamate all these convulting land laws from pre colonial to a simple one beats my imagination
I totally understand your frustration. I've dealt with a number of land issues and the experiences have always been very unpleasant. I know the current government is seriously working on the issue you raised and I can't wait for it to be done. Hopefully we'll have a system like Rwanda's when it's done.
This is my greatest concern regarding our relocation...!!! As buyers we could end up losing big money due to issues beyond our control. Even if the lawyer's conveyance, (et al.), is deemed inaccurate, the buyer still loses everything. Zero buyer protection. That 'caveat emptor' principle is a deal killer!
I would like to buy a house in Ghana, I am so afraid l don’t know who to trust. I live in the London and would like a solicitor to represent me, l just don’t know where to start. On the interview the advice is find but who are the professionals to contact, to do the searches etc.
EXCELLENT! MANY VLOGGERS ARE IMPLYING BUYING LAND AND HOUSES IS EASY. YOU CANNOT DO IT ON THE CHEAP! TO BE SAFE, YOU NEED TO PAY FOR THE BEST REPUTAION LEGAL SERVICES TO PROTECT AGAINST CLAIMS. MOST IMPORTANT.
@@evadney1000 ALWAYS. I'M SURE SOME OF THE BETTER VLOGGERS COULD HELP REFER YOU TO A REPUTABLE ATTORNEY THERE. VANESSA KANBI, JASMINE AMA, NATURAL GHANA GIRL OR IVY PROSPER, AND OTHERS, SHOULD BE A BIG HELP. I'M IN NEW YORK, BUT WHEN I COME THERE, I WILL BE CONFERRING WITH ALL OF THEM!
You are absolutely correct. It helps to pay for professional services to ensure you receive the best legal advice not just for land purchase but all aspects of monetary transactions.
I'm sad hearing this but what the lawyer is saying is not going be your work, you will find a professional to do all that for you. I'm into the same business
@@KammaDyn I hear you but it is time consuming and negative energy. All most of us from the diaspora is interested in is investing in Africa. We are desperate for sun and a less stressful lifestyle. We have suffered enough. We work hard for our money in an environment that doesn't value us as individuals. Doing due diligence to avoid corruption is absolutely crazy! I am currently buying from a Developer. I am seriously thinking of pulling out. The reason is they have no legal paperwork to share with me. They will give me when I have paid the full price for the property!. They do not communicate effectively and give completion dates such as December. December has 31 days. That is the window they give. This completion date was given to me by word of mouth. Customer service is too basic to reassure me right now. I am proposing to view land on October. This company are giving 99 years lease. I will have to spend money in order to do due diligence in order to avoid the corruption system. Africa 🌍 nice but it is not easy.
@@evadney1000 From what you are saying it's clear those people are not genuine, so you just have to leave them and look for a different location or a professional who will give you a genuine property. I'm into Architectural designs, land and property acquisition related stuffs, my advice will be never make any payment to anyone whiles you have not gone to the lands commission to verify the actual owners of the land. That's what I mostly do before telling any client of mine to make any down payment, and till today I have not had any issues. I have been doing this for 14years.
@@evadney1000 Many people have successfully bought and built their homes in Ghana. Don't let this video discourage you. Most people die driving on the roads in the the United States, does that stop you from driving ???
Hi Jerod, I am Ghanaian in US. I would recomend buying from a real estate company. I own one with Devtraco. It's much easier. Buying outside of Tema and Accra can be complicated. They are mostly Royal Lands and in small areas by families who settled there centuries ago.
Am not sure either, too complicated. Land in Ghana is expensive, then lawyers fee. All diasporas have land there, where our ancestors where taken from. Now they said return return, now with all these red tapes on owning land. I now digress.
@@blossomjohnson2713 Not everyone's ancestors were taken from Ghana. About 75% of the slave ports and castles are located in Ghana. However, I am not sure that the people who were taken from the landmass now known in the present day as Ghana make up even 5% of the total number of people taken. Ghana just served as an exit point. The point of returning to Ghana is not because all of the diasporas are entitled to land. This was never promised to the diaspora as a condition for returning to Ghana. However, in recognition of the historic wrong committed, the Year of return was initiated to give willing diaspora the opportunity to retrace the steps of their ancestors and help bridge the gap for the common good of all parties affected. Additionally, certain chiefs have offered designated land to the diaspora. It is not an absolute right, but a grace offered. This is rightly so as many Ghanaian citizens don't own land themselves and are homeless or squatting with relatives.
Keep it up Vanessa. The land law is complex, however this should not be a factor to put anyone off wanting to buy property in Ghana. And this is the time to buy land there with the pandemic going on around the world. The prices will go up once the virus ends. I'm based in Manchester, UK, soon I'm moving to Ghana for good.
@@puyelini That's not true, because records are kept of ownership and any liens against the property in the U.S. It's seldom to hear about buying property being a nightmare in the U.S. The biggest issue here is land rights, as far as minerals, water, zoning, future plans, etc so you could buy a property, but if you don't have mineral rights, someone could buy it, and dig up your front yard. It happens mostly with oil companies. Pretty jacked up, but it's rare, where as most land buying in Africa takes months to years to purchase, and that's not common in developed countries. It's just we have a basic checklist and there isn't so much running around, most times. Don't get me wrong. I don't like "developed" countries, but the land buying should be made a bit easier than it is, or at least better record keeping, though I like the idea of having to speak with the chief and others to make sure a person isn't going to do something detrimental with or to the land.
Much respect Vanessa, your out there despite all the current issues in the world. Although your in Ghana, your videos still give valuable insights to life in Africa. I'm like you, half Scottish but I'm half Tanzanian. Anyway take care your blessed x
In the US, this is baked into the property (land or house) purchase process. We are removed from the complexities but that doesn't mean that it is not a daunting process. I never look forward to 'closing' because of all the paperwork that needs to be signed (Which you don't have time to read). I'll encourage diasporans and even Ghanaians to have an appreciation for what these lawyers do and pay for their expertise. It should be factored into the true cost of land acquisition.
That's what title companies and title insurance is for in the US. Sounds like a business opportunity for someone to go into Ghana and assist them with setting up a better digital title management system (using blockchain technology).
Guys, please realize that although it can be a complex and risky thing buying land in Ghana, it's quite clear to me that Emmanuel here is also selling his business by making things extra complex in order for one to feel the need to hire a lawyer/advisor. We need to contextualize what he's saying here. Yes, do your due diligence and be extra vigilant, but don't let what he's saying here turn you off in buying land and investing in Ghana, after all, despite all the complexity presented here, Ghana is still developing at a rapid pace, so don't let what has been said here prevent you from investing in your dream. Do all you can and go for it, there can be no great accomplishment without risk.
To disregard legal advice from a professional is to do so at your peril. Always use a solicitor if at all possible as they'll have a duty of care (fiduciary duty) to ensure as a foreigner you are not cheated. Make sure that the selling processes are in writing and your instructions also are in writing.
Excellent job Vanessa! Great video. I know Emmanuel personally and he's a great lawyer, very experienced. He was actually part of a team of lawyers that helped secure a few acres of land owned by my family at Peduase in the Aburi mountains when some people tried to be smart by forging documents and signatures on deeds and parading as owners of the land. Our original documents were removed from the lands registry and replaced with these forged documents, all in connivance with officials of the lands registry commission. What that meant at the time was that if you did a search on the owner of that parcel of land you'd find the name of a crook and deal with him to your detriment. Of course, because we were dealing with some of the best lawyers in town we sued the thieves/imposters together with the lands commission and judgement was granted in our favour against the imposters and the lands commission. Just a few weeks ago we completed the sale of some plots of the land to a top lawyer in town. He did his due diligence by doing a search. After satisfying himself with the results of the search, we signed a sale and purchase agreement after which he made payment for the land. After making payment he prepared and submitted a deed of assignment for our signature which will be duly registered at the lands commission as the new owner of that portion of the land. He's already started developing his land. I'm saying all this to tell everyone that though there are problems and complexities, it is very possible to own land with the help of very good lawyers. Every land has a legitimate owner and this can always be traced with the help of good lawyers. Anyone interested in land at Aburi can contact me for litigation-free land.
I'm sad hearing people commenting that they are no more interested in buying land in Ghana. All what the lawyer is saying is just showing you the right way and the possible red flags, all other works are not going be your work, you will find a professional to do all that for you. I'm into the same business.
To buy land in Ghana seems mighty complicated. There should be an easier way to obtain land there. Ghana needs to sort out its land system.They are inviting people to live there, so things should be honest and straight forward for people who have lived in the Western world.
Not to mention the government needs to invest in infrastructure more. You can't invite people from a developed country or continent to an undeveloped continent therefore depleting our standard of living that we've become accustomed to it's not a fair trade
Vanessa this video was very informative and insightful. I am currently undertaking my due diligence to embark on a journey back to the motherland. Currently live in the UK, London. I paused the video like a million times to take notes. I have a page full of notes and will be using these at my meetings with the developers for land and home purchase. Thank you so much for the work you are doing. A million likes . Oh and thanks to Nana K Bartels for also adding to this topic and huge thanks to Lawyer Emmanuel for giving knowledge freely.
@@benkarl1274 to the ordinary mexican, california was "bought" or "taken" from them. Tons of "abandoned" land are in dispute. Search through the court system. Property in foreclosure is in dispute. In U.S. u have so-called "civil procedure" so it's done quietly through the court so you won't "hear" about it unless u do research
@@benkarl1274 u missed the part where I said "to the ordinary mexican" . I'm sharing the perspective of "the ordinary mexican" that I know. Awareness of dispute be in the form of witnessing the fight over land ownership, which can turn bloody in some countries. In America they take it to court and wait for judge to rule. To hear about it, you can search for the "case". A case is a problem. I think u get the point I'm making :)
Great video. Thank you for this. I am visiting Ghana next month and was planning to speak with an attorney to get the details of owning property. This is a great introduction to understanding the process of acquiring land and I appreciate you tremendously for it.
I'm going to watch but I couldn't help it but thank you for your reactivity or proactivity😉. You really take into account the questions of your subscribers. Keep up with the great work!
Thank you so much Vanessa! This is probably one of the most important vids for not just returnees but expats and Ghanaians on land advice. What to do and what not to do - so so needed. Thank you!!!
Good exposition on landed property acquisition in Ghana. However, a lawyer is not the only professional when it comes to land matters. Estate and Valuation Surveyors are professionals who help client in estimating the price at which the land/property should go for. Land Surveyors also pick up the coordinates of the prospective land to determine if the coordinates of the site plan given by the seller actually corresponds with what is on the ground before the search at the lands commission even begins. Surveyors are needed when trying to acquire landed property.
After reading, having a community of Ghanaians in the states that I consider friends, being a part of Pan African land and economic groups, listening to people stories/experiences, and professional in cross referencing spaces; it honestly all connects back to the piece of the puzzle on where you are going to be scammed; area(s) of vulnerability. Am I making sense here!? Please, let’s delve deeper into this fact-of the-matter, and all vulnerable points we need to proper reconcile: (1) legal names/owners, (2) survey/land-mapping, (3) verify court judgements, (4) land commission registration/validation. What else am I missing to place on our risk assessment or rather due diligence check list? After our Due-Diligence check list is proper, we can lean-down the professional parties necessary for the job. E.g. who in our Ghana repertoire of professionals fulfills more then 1 of our check points?
Hello, Vanessa I will be back in Accra on October 2nd. I coming back to buy land so I can build a home on it. I will retire in Accra in about 2 years or less. Last year was my first time there. I was there for 2 weeks. Enjoy every minute of my time there. It was great to be back home.
Sounds complex, but it is nothing to discourage someone. Buying land here (in Canadá ) is not so complicaded to many because the lawyer (almost always involved) deals with the complications. The only draw back there is how long the process takes...
One small thing you need to get is a handheld MICROPHONE near the speaker more so if wear a mask as the voice is muffled and a little hard to hear. BUT overall this is the first one and a good JOB has been done. Keep them coming **
We bought land and it was not like this. Simply check the registry to see who is the legal owner and only deal with them. As well, as it would be unwise to purchase land without a lawyer in any part of the world, Ghana is not exempt.
The problem happens in the capital. The chiefs, stool and or family pry on people to cheat them. Is always advisable to buy from already acquired land by a company. They new Ghanaians abroad vacation time in Ghana longest is 6 weeks, the moment you leave resales the land and they have all the time, do you?
Don't even trust the companies. I attempted to buy land through a company. They told me they had all the documents ready. I went to land commission to check the name on the land and guess what. It wasn't in the companies name. Like the lawyer said the name on the document from the seller should match what is at lands commission.
Killed it for me and I really was thinking of investing in Ghana and in retirement doing half year or more in Ghana. Nope 👎🏽 I’ll take my acre (or much less) and a mule, here in the states. Trusting mine IS MINE.
Vanessa-thank you for the video. Question: if I purchase a townhouse in a gated community, am I only leasing the townhome for 50 years? If so, do I get my money back if I cannot renew my leasing contract for an additional 50 years?
Has anyone actually ever heard of a landowner bring kicked off their land at the end of the lease? Local people will tell you it just doesn’t happen but perhaps that’s historic before land prices in Accra hit the roof in recent years and have become a hot asset. Safe to have a renewal clause of course but also bear in mind lawyers have a tendency to talk worse case scenario, put the fear in people. The higher the fear the higher the fee!
Great informative video. This is very complex, I just feel sorry for diasporans who have been caught in a spiders web. I think buying a house or apartment in a complex maybe the best way forward 😊🙏🏾
Not everyone wants to live in a complex. Some people prefer to have more space between them and their neighbors and more privacy. To develop the land as they wish for example having more green space with vegetation. With a developed property you're limited almost like living in an HOA property
I'm actually looking to but land in Sunyani, Ghana and I was doing my due diligence. I am very thankful that you made this video because I didn't know the process of getting the Chiefs approval or who to really go through I have a lawyer that's they're already working on it and I do believe he has have me a good faith but this puts me in Greater understanding so I can ask better questions I'm already going through the lands Commission and a lawyer so now I know how to proceed forward thank you
Great work Vanessa. I always knew that some youtubers commenting on this issue were either ignorant of the facts or misleading their viewers. People should avoid leasehold as far as possible. You or your inheritor will be at the mercy of the freeholder especially if you have developed the land. Whatever the freeholder demands to extend the lease, you or your inheritor will have no choice but to pay or lose your interest. Ghana was an attractive repat destination for me until this video.
@Pepi IV that's why he said you have to have a renewal clause in your lease stating the terms of renewal. Once the terms are agreed on, whoever inherits your lease will not have any surprises
Very very good! This is the most exhaustive & comprehensive explanation I've seen given re buying land in Ghana. Very good Vanessa. Kudos to you & your guest. To be forewarned is to be forearmed! "Caveat emptor."
In spite of all these seemingly hazy legal jargons and cumbersome procedures, I would say that buying land in Ghana is just as easy as anywhere else in the world. It would seem complex to a foreigner after listening to this lawyer but for me as a Ghanaian the process is rather very simple. The complexities, it appears, exist in high end lands in Accra and other big cities.
I was intending to going to Ghana this year, however due to the Covid situation I do not know, have anyone seen the movie Joseph, I would recommend everyone to watch this, great production.vanessa I would like to reach out to you sometime.
@@evadney1000 you can contact the lawyer in this video. I believe Vanessa has posted his details. Another reputable law firm is LithurBrew & Company www.lithurbrew.com/ Email info@lithurbrew.com Phone +233 302 248 105 Phone +233 302 248 104 AddressNo. 110B 1st Kade Close, Kanda Estate, Accra, Ghana |
Many people have successfully bought and built their homes in Ghana. Don't let this video discourage you. Most people die driving on the roads in the the United States, does that stop you from driving ???
all lands in Ghana are not international investor friendly period. Only if you fully understand land , then you may buy but then also you maybe in litigation for years. Having possession is most important when oweing a land
Informative but still can be complex. Hit me for registered land in Aburi near peduase lodge. Due diligence is paramount. Thanks, Vanessa, you're the best
It does sound complex but at the same time, with a good professional, land acquisition can be a very smooth experience. My family sold land at Peduase (in the Aburi mountains) to a top lawyer in town recently. The lawyer did his due diligence and after satisfying himself with the results of his search, drafted a sale and purchase agreement. We had our lawyers look at it for their input, after which he made payment. We formally confirmed receipt of payment after which he prepared and submitted deed of assignment document for our signatures. He's already started developing. Very smooth transaction but that's simply because the parties did their due diligence.
Thank you for the informative discussion! As there are so many consents, concurrents and conveyances involved... and with so little freehold land available, this seems to be additional disincentives for obtaining land or building a home there. A lease, even a 99-year lease with the possibility of extension, is still not 'ownership'. So, my question is: HOW would a potential buyer determine for certain, who ACTUALLY owns the land --- especially if even a Ghanaian lawyer cannot be certain? (And are buyers compensated for inaccurate conveyances?) Buyers could spend thousands of dollars and end up with nothing.
Unless the Constitution was changed, there are no freehold available for purchase by non citizens. Going ahead anyway is a risk that is up to each individual to weigh for themselves. But the prospect of losing your investment is very real. Thousands of people have learned the hard way.
How long is a reasonable time to receive allocation papers from the chief? We’ve been waiting 4 months! Every meeting with the chief gets postponed, isn’t there some higher power? How can they get away with not doing their job?
Vanessa, great video (as usual)!!! One question/thought: Here in the US (and elsewhere) owning property is a major requirement in building family/generational wealth, with the leasing limitations in Ghana what options are there for mid/low income families to build wealth? This seems like a major limitation for the nation as a whole!? For instance, real-estate has contributed greatly to building the American middle class (and wealthy). Perhaps I'm missing something?
Well I guess the law is to protect the indigens from losing all their lands completely. Foreigners might end up acquiring everything and there will be nothing left to hand down to the unborn generations of the locals. Even with all these laws to protect theGhanaian, there are still many foreigners who are acquiring freeholds because of the loopholes and corruption in the system. A leasehold to a foreigner will that's ensure that after the expired term of the lease, the renewal clause is activated for perhaps the children of the initial seller to also benefit from the land which in most cases are family and stool lands. If all the lands are sold freehold to foreigners there will be no legacy left for the stools and families.
Apply In-Person: To Sub Dividing of Land in Ghana, the applicant has to approach the Land Commission office. Contact link Land Ownership Search can be done in person by visiting the Land Commission Office or in any of their Land Offices in the applicant Local district/ Sub County. Here, the applicant will be provided with an application for Official Search Form to fill and submit. This form can also be obtained from the Land Commission Office. The applicant has to make sure that he or she has all the required documents that are required for this process to be successful and they can be found under the "Required Documents" section of this page. Payment of appropriate fees should be made and that can be found under the "Fees" section of this page. Submit the completed form in two copies along with the supporting documents to the respective office. This application will be processed and the information will be verified by the LC office. After the search, one is issued with a stamped Certificate of Official search Form showing the status of the land. The land search at Lands office takes an average of 3 days.
Thanks for another informative vid, Vanessa. Can you do a part 2 with the lawyer? Could he do these land search and due diligence? If he would, what are his contact details? Are you going to use his service Vanessa or are you going to do it yourself since you're already in Ghana? Definately love to follow this up.
Yes all the work he is talking about can be done by a lawyer. When I buy my land I’ll be using a lawyer after the first check with the lands commission. If the first check has the same name as the person selling then I’ll enlist a lawyers for the rest of the checks. If the first search comes back with a different name & the seller has a story which doesn’t make sense it’s almost not worth starting because it’s probably being sold by someone who can’t sell it.
Very very complex. I bought my in spintex raod about 16yrs ago and lucky for I hired a lawyer. I remember paying the lawyer 2 thousand dollars in fees. U have to do ur homework. I was only 20yrs. I think being in America served me well.
@@Crob100 look I heard some one saying I was ripped off. Recently as far back about 2017 . There was a new chief that was installed in the area and trust me . They tried to take the land . They took me to court and because I had my paperwork in order I prevailed. Due diligence isn't the word to describe it . With a young age at dat time i think i gave kudos to my self.
@@blossomjohnson2713 it gave me an eye opener because I have properties over here and knowing how I acquired those properties and the legalities involved. Thats what I meant it served me well. ...thanks
Hello there, Do you have the contact information for the m&O attorney you interviewed. Does he perform these task for others? I am highly interested in buying in ghana!
@@sonjahomer5381 exactly. That is why all the laws and customs governing land ownership need to be refined/simplified especially for members of the diaspora and black people in North America who want to return to their motherland and permanently live there. The govt must simplify for them at least.
So many in comments got discouraged from video,if you want to live in Ghana go for it..jus like the lawyer said do your due diligence.If you give it up so easy just from a post you don’t belong there
Sounds complicated but also simple. Persons who sell virgin Lands have a site plan which makes it easy to trace the ownership. For buying a house is simpler to trace the ownership through the district council. The lawyer has good information however there is too much theory to what he is saying. He is doing his job though.
Thank you - very helpful. I wish he'd said more about acquiring land from the stool/chief because I've learned my late mother has land in Accra and the Chief wants her surviving children to present themselves physically to him before he will hand over the land. I really haven't got a clue how the process works - do we not own the land until the Chief says we do? I thought it was enough that it was my mother's land and just simply passes to her children by succession.
Great information,what happened when it's time to renew lease a lot can happen in 50 years I may not be around but my children and grandchildren will ,would they have pay again to renew lease and what would happen to them if the person's don't want to renew to my family in this country I have a will I leave everything to my grandchildren and great grandchildren the world is changing everyday like I said a lot can happen in 50 years
If you buy land from the government you need to be extra diligent. That sounds crazy. You would think buying from government is the best and safest option because it is the government. Such a shame. If a family can come for the land after the government has taken it from them and then take it back that opens up a real opportunity for being scammed. That is without all the other possibilities of family fractions.
So my question is: Me, as an African American, If I decide to relocate to Ghana and purchase land follöwing all of the legal procedures on a 50 year ownership contract, or agreement, And I build a home on that land valued at $150,000 U.S, At the end of that 50 year period, ( taken into consideration 50 years is not a long time given that many people today live into their 80s and 90s), If the seller has the option of not renewing the first contract will he/ she or them have the responsibility of paying the proper value of the home one had constructed on the land. Or will the home and land be considered as a lost if the Original owner decide not to renew the initial contract?
As Emmanuel said you can write into the initial contract a renewal clause so that it’s guaranteed. & if you didn’t do that & didn’t Renew they wouldn’t have to pay you for the property on there land. I’ve never heard of someone not being able to renew land personally.
99% of the people saying, "it's so complex" don't own land and have never tried to purchase LAND in their country of origin. Where in the world do you know that gives land away for nothing and easily.
Vanessa, thank you very much. I would not have expected the process to be as complex as it is but I have seen similar circumstances in other countries which have long histories before these "modern" times. I've spent some time in Norway and was told of court cases where the non-head of a Clan had disposed of property then years later the primary descendant of the rightful Clan leader shows up from some other country to claim the family land. The government(and courts) are 100% in favor of the traditional heir. They were able to track who left the country, when and where they were headed. If the lane was not in heavy use with no squatters, all good. If a town/city had been built, it's a big issue resolvable by "$$$$$$$" I would think that to be "covered" in Ghana, I would hire a professional and asked to be involved with all aspects of the necessary permissions. As an older person it would be rather taxing to face a legal fight or other type of conflict with someone who has a legitimate claim on the property. Your post is a real eye opener... Thank you again! In your search, will you use family members for advice?
It's also very important to talk to the locals in the environs where you wish to buy the land. They usually have rich knowledge of the land owners. That together with a search at the various land registry offices will give you a good idea as to whom to deal with in buying your preferred land.
We are in the UK ( british/ Ghanaians) we need desperately need legal advice about our property in ghana, can anyone highly recommend a property lawyer in Ghana
Lands near big cities are trouble, buy a completed house instead. Other than that, buy land from chiefs or stools far away from big cities and avoid third parties. Just purchased 4 plots of land (100x100) each for less that $7000 with receipt and indentures. Don’t be discouraged, do it the right way and you’ll have a piece of mind.
Please define "far away" in miles or kilometers?
Which area you bought the plots??
Hmmm 4 plots for $7,000,Please tell me the area Wai
@@mercymensah1819 $7,000 each
Which area please?
I don't know how you did it. But you did it. You spent very little time in Ghana this time. But you made it count with all these GREAT videos.
And this is just the beginning of the videos 🤣. Thank you - I worked as hard as possible it definitely wasn’t relaxing but was worth it 🙌🏽.
she's from ghana that's how . she knew where to look for what she needs
She is doen, t spent little time in ghana but she is Ghanaian
You 2 commentors must be new here. She came back to Ghana when the airports opened and spent about a week or two maybe. And she has been able to produce great content. You know what. I am not going to explain to newcomers. Watch all her most recent videos and come back here and read your comments.
@@kelikumassah since we're not new and know she has been producing great content for ghana before she left and her father is ghanaian and she has explained that there's no need to explain or be surprised that she is good at what she does. thanks but we're not asking you to elaborate, we're telling you you're wrong.
I was really was ready to buy land in Ghana. Listening to this changed my mind. I don't trust that system at all
I hear you but this is why if any of us are gonna do it we need to do it professionally I.e.get a lawyer. Don't be discouraged but yes there are protocols and it must be done correctly.
Same. What’s the point of setting up and building if you can’t ever really own the land😭
@@salome6230 exactly.
This is confusing. In Jamaica, U buy the land, U own it for life. This is very discouraging. I guess this goes for The Gambia too.
@@lucygreen8549 most of west Africa by my research*. seems risky and stressful lol idk
You're my best RUclipsr. Keep on doing great job for Ghana and Mama Africa 🇬🇭🇲🇼
Great interview Vanessa. My personal experience in buying land which is currently in litigation. I did my due diligence went through land commission and all the appropriate quarters and had it duly registered and now there are three claimants all showing "documentations" . The bane of all the land issues is corruption from all sectors, i.e land commission, to chiefs, stools and private entities. Why we cannot amalgamate all these convulting land laws from pre colonial to a simple one beats my imagination
I totally understand your frustration. I've dealt with a number of land issues and the experiences have always been very unpleasant. I know the current government is seriously working on the issue you raised and I can't wait for it to be done. Hopefully we'll have a system like Rwanda's when it's done.
This is my greatest concern regarding our relocation...!!! As buyers we could end up losing big money due to issues beyond our control. Even if the lawyer's conveyance, (et al.), is deemed inaccurate, the buyer still loses everything. Zero buyer protection. That 'caveat emptor' principle is a deal killer!
@Roland Mensah after 60+ years of self rule , we are still can’t get even one institution of governance to work for us . When ?
This is all so off putting.
I would like to buy a house in Ghana,
I am so afraid l don’t know who to trust.
I live in the London and would like a solicitor to represent me, l just don’t know where to start.
On the interview the advice is find but who are the professionals to contact, to do the searches etc.
EXCELLENT! MANY VLOGGERS ARE IMPLYING BUYING LAND AND HOUSES IS EASY. YOU CANNOT DO IT ON THE CHEAP! TO BE SAFE, YOU NEED TO PAY FOR THE BEST REPUTAION LEGAL SERVICES TO PROTECT AGAINST CLAIMS. MOST IMPORTANT.
Would be nice to get some recommendations for trustworthy legal representatives.
@@evadney1000 ALWAYS. I'M SURE SOME OF THE BETTER VLOGGERS COULD HELP REFER YOU TO A REPUTABLE ATTORNEY THERE. VANESSA KANBI, JASMINE AMA, NATURAL GHANA GIRL OR IVY PROSPER, AND OTHERS, SHOULD BE A BIG HELP.
I'M IN NEW YORK, BUT WHEN I COME THERE, I WILL BE CONFERRING WITH ALL OF THEM!
The best part is entering into a pact with honest people.
You are absolutely correct. It helps to pay for professional services to ensure you receive the best legal advice not just for land purchase but all aspects of monetary transactions.
@@evadney1000 www.kasakonsultants.com we work with people to acquire lands in Ghana. Even if you live abroad.
I am a foreigner who was eyeing Ghana for investment , after this I am looking else where. Thank you Vanessa.
I'm sad hearing this but what the lawyer is saying is not going be your work, you will find a professional to do all that for you. I'm into the same business
You should not be scared. These are basic due diligence you must do. Safe to buy from a company that has been there for 5 to 10 years. Cheers
@@KammaDyn I hear you but it is time consuming and negative energy. All most of us from the diaspora is interested in is investing in Africa. We are desperate for sun and a less stressful lifestyle. We have suffered enough. We work hard for our money in an environment that doesn't value us as individuals. Doing due diligence to avoid corruption is absolutely crazy! I am currently buying from a Developer. I am seriously thinking of pulling out. The reason is they have no legal paperwork to share with me. They will give me when I have paid the full price for the property!. They do not communicate effectively and give completion dates such as December. December has 31 days. That is the window they give. This completion date was given to me by word of mouth. Customer service is too basic to reassure me right now. I am proposing to view land on October. This company are giving 99 years lease. I will have to spend money in order to do due diligence in order to avoid the corruption system. Africa 🌍 nice but it is not easy.
@@evadney1000 From what you are saying it's clear those people are not genuine, so you just have to leave them and look for a different location or a professional who will give you a genuine property. I'm into Architectural designs, land and property acquisition related stuffs, my advice will be never make any payment to anyone whiles you have not gone to the lands commission to verify the actual owners of the land. That's what I mostly do before telling any client of mine to make any down payment, and till today I have not had any issues. I have been doing this for 14years.
@@evadney1000 Many people have successfully bought and built their homes in Ghana. Don't let this video discourage you. Most people die driving on the roads in the the United States, does that stop
you from driving ???
I was pretty set on buying property in Ghana before watching this video. Now I'm not so sure. This was very helpful.
Hi Jerod,
I am Ghanaian in US. I would recomend buying from a real estate company. I own one with Devtraco. It's much easier. Buying outside of Tema and Accra can be complicated. They are mostly Royal Lands and in small areas by families who settled there centuries ago.
@@Kya1942 can you send me your info?
Am not sure either, too complicated. Land in Ghana is expensive, then lawyers fee. All diasporas have land there, where our ancestors where taken from. Now they said return return, now with all these red tapes on owning land. I now digress.
@@blossomjohnson2713 local Ghanaians also have to go through this process so it's difficult for everyone
@@blossomjohnson2713 Not everyone's ancestors were taken from Ghana. About 75% of the slave ports and castles are located in Ghana. However, I am not sure that the people who were taken from the landmass now known in the present day as Ghana make up even 5% of the total number of people taken. Ghana just served as an exit point. The point of returning to Ghana is not because all of the diasporas are entitled to land. This was never promised to the diaspora as a condition for returning to Ghana. However, in recognition of the historic wrong committed, the Year of return was initiated to give willing diaspora the opportunity to retrace the steps of their ancestors and help bridge the gap for the common good of all parties affected. Additionally, certain chiefs have offered designated land to the diaspora. It is not an absolute right, but a grace offered. This is rightly so as many Ghanaian citizens don't own land themselves and are homeless or squatting with relatives.
Keep it up Vanessa. The land law is complex, however this should not be a factor to put anyone off wanting to buy property in Ghana. And this is the time to buy land there with the pandemic going on around the world. The prices will go up once the virus ends. I'm based in Manchester, UK, soon I'm moving to Ghana for good.
You're right! In fact the law, everywhere in the world is complex. A very good lawyer will take away the headache.
@@puyelini That's not true, because records are kept of ownership and any liens against the property in the U.S. It's seldom to hear about buying property being a nightmare in the U.S. The biggest issue here is land rights, as far as minerals, water, zoning, future plans, etc so you could buy a property, but if you don't have mineral rights, someone could buy it, and dig up your front yard. It happens mostly with oil companies. Pretty jacked up, but it's rare, where as most land buying in Africa takes months to years to purchase, and that's not common in developed countries. It's just we have a basic checklist and there isn't so much running around, most times. Don't get me wrong. I don't like "developed" countries, but the land buying should be made a bit easier than it is, or at least better record keeping, though I like the idea of having to speak with the chief and others to make sure a person isn't going to do something detrimental with or to the land.
Emmanuel is my solicitor for an ongoing case. Highly recommend him especially if you’re based in the UK/ US
I've just enlisted him in me buying land . How is yours going ?
Much respect Vanessa, your out there despite all the current issues in the world. Although your in Ghana, your videos still give valuable insights to life in Africa. I'm like you, half Scottish but I'm half Tanzanian. Anyway take care your blessed x
I’m so glad you find value in my videos. Tanzania is definitely on my list of places to visit - looks so beautiful x
@@VanessaKanbi Thanks Vanessa. Keep the videos coming. Your awsome.
In the US, this is baked into the property (land or house) purchase process. We are removed from the complexities but that doesn't mean that it is not a daunting process. I never look forward to 'closing' because of all the paperwork that needs to be signed (Which you don't have time to read). I'll encourage diasporans and even Ghanaians to have an appreciation for what these lawyers do and pay for their expertise. It should be factored into the true cost of land acquisition.
Very well said!
The profession of Lawyers are benefitting from extreme corruption!
That's what title companies and title insurance is for in the US. Sounds like a business opportunity for someone to go into Ghana and assist them with setting up a better digital title management system (using blockchain technology).
@@MoneyMikeda9mm You are perfectly right
Guys, please realize that although it can be a complex and risky thing buying land in Ghana, it's quite clear to me that Emmanuel here is also selling his business by making things extra complex in order for one to feel the need to hire a lawyer/advisor. We need to contextualize what he's saying here. Yes, do your due diligence and be extra vigilant, but don't let what he's saying here turn you off in buying land and investing in Ghana, after all, despite all the complexity presented here, Ghana is still developing at a rapid pace, so don't let what has been said here prevent you from investing in your dream. Do all you can and go for it, there can be no great accomplishment without risk.
To disregard legal advice from a professional is to do so at your peril. Always use a solicitor if at all possible as they'll have a duty of care (fiduciary duty) to ensure as a foreigner you are not cheated. Make sure that the selling processes are in writing and your instructions also are in writing.
Excellent job Vanessa! Great video. I know Emmanuel personally and he's a great lawyer, very experienced.
He was actually part of a team of lawyers that helped secure a few acres of land owned by my family at Peduase in the Aburi mountains when some people tried to be smart by forging documents and signatures on deeds and parading as owners of the land. Our original documents were removed from the lands registry and replaced with these forged documents, all in connivance with officials of the lands registry commission. What that meant at the time was that if you did a search on the owner of that parcel of land you'd find the name of a crook and deal with him to your detriment.
Of course, because we were dealing with some of the best lawyers in town we sued the thieves/imposters together with the lands commission and judgement was granted in our favour against the imposters and the lands commission.
Just a few weeks ago we completed the sale of some plots of the land to a top lawyer in town. He did his due diligence by doing a search. After satisfying himself with the results of the search, we signed a sale and purchase agreement after which he made payment for the land. After making payment he prepared and submitted a deed of assignment for our signature which will be duly registered at the lands commission as the new owner of that portion of the land. He's already started developing his land.
I'm saying all this to tell everyone that though there are problems and complexities, it is very possible to own land with the help of very good lawyers. Every land has a legitimate owner and this can always be traced with the help of good lawyers.
Anyone interested in land at Aburi can contact me for litigation-free land.
How do we make contact with you?
What’s your email?
I am interested in the Aburi Land please. how do I contact you?
@@VanessaKanbi queeneh@hotmail.com
@@VanessaKanbi Joelvanderpuye@gmail.com
The Ghana-Government should reorganize the selling/buying of Land to make it easy.
Am impressed with your videos Vennesa, he explained in detailed. These tips given are super helpful thank you.
Thanks Vanessa. This is very informative. I am from Ghana and most of these things are way over my head😏
I'm sad hearing people commenting that they are no more interested in buying land in Ghana. All what the lawyer is saying is just showing you the right way and the possible red flags, all other works are not going be your work, you will find a professional to do all that for you. I'm into the same business.
Are you a lawyer?
@@kakbema Please no, I do Architectural designs, Valuation, Estimation and help people to acquire genuine land.
This is Clear to comprehend....
Obey the Land Laws
Ensure your due diligence is duly done well.
That's all!
To buy land in Ghana seems mighty complicated. There should be an easier way to obtain land there. Ghana needs to sort out its land system.They are inviting people to live there, so things should be honest and straight forward for people who have lived in the Western world.
Not to mention the government needs to invest in infrastructure more. You can't invite people from a developed country or continent to an undeveloped continent therefore depleting our standard of living that we've become accustomed to it's not a fair trade
Vanessa this video was very informative and insightful. I am currently undertaking my due diligence to embark on a journey back to the motherland. Currently live in the UK, London. I paused the video like a million times to take notes. I have a page full of notes and will be using these at my meetings with the developers for land and home purchase. Thank you so much for the work you are doing. A million likes . Oh and thanks to Nana K Bartels for also adding to this topic and huge thanks to Lawyer Emmanuel for giving knowledge freely.
Hey Abbie, I would love to get in touch with you to see how your journey went
This is so unorganized. This is why people are poisoned and killed over land. This system needs to be revamped.
Land dispute happens all over the world. It's same as family disputes
@@benkarl1274 to the ordinary mexican, california was "bought" or "taken" from them. Tons of "abandoned" land are in dispute. Search through the court system. Property in foreclosure is in dispute. In U.S. u have so-called "civil procedure" so it's done quietly through the court so you won't "hear" about it unless u do research
@@benkarl1274 u missed the part where I said "to the ordinary mexican" . I'm sharing the perspective of "the ordinary mexican" that I know. Awareness of dispute be in the form of witnessing the fight over land ownership, which can turn bloody in some countries. In America they take it to court and wait for judge to rule. To hear about it, you can search for the "case". A case is a problem. I think u get the point I'm making :)
Great video. Thank you for this. I am visiting Ghana next month and was planning to speak with an attorney to get the details of owning property. This is a great introduction to understanding the process of acquiring land and I appreciate you tremendously for it.
seeing your name in my notification gives me soo much joy.
I'm going to watch but I couldn't help it but thank you for your reactivity or proactivity😉. You really take into account the questions of your subscribers. Keep up with the great work!
I have been waiting for this video...great work Vanessa.
Thank you so much Vanessa! This is probably one of the most important vids for not just returnees but expats and Ghanaians on land advice. What to do and what not to do - so so needed. Thank you!!!
Always dropping great value Vanessa. Great video
Yes, I’m definitely getting land in Ghana to build a house! My friend has land in Ghana and building a three bedroom house!❤️🙏🏽
Great information. I literally have been searching for the answer to..what happens after 50 years? For the last few months. 😊
Good exposition on landed property acquisition in Ghana. However, a lawyer is not the only professional when it comes to land matters. Estate and Valuation Surveyors are professionals who help client in estimating the price at which the land/property should go for.
Land Surveyors also pick up the coordinates of the prospective land to determine if the coordinates of the site plan given by the seller actually corresponds with what is on the ground before the search at the lands commission even begins.
Surveyors are needed when trying to acquire landed property.
After reading, having a community of Ghanaians in the states that I consider friends, being a part of Pan African land and economic groups, listening to people stories/experiences, and professional in cross referencing spaces; it honestly all connects back to the piece of the puzzle on where you are going to be scammed; area(s) of vulnerability. Am I making sense here!? Please, let’s delve deeper into this fact-of the-matter, and all vulnerable points we need to proper reconcile: (1) legal names/owners, (2) survey/land-mapping, (3) verify court judgements, (4) land commission registration/validation. What else am I missing to place on our risk assessment or rather due diligence check list? After our Due-Diligence check list is proper, we can lean-down the professional parties necessary for the job. E.g. who in our Ghana repertoire of professionals fulfills more then 1 of our check points?
I am interested in buying something near the beach but it's so hard to find people that have decent honest business protocol.
Hello, Vanessa
I will be back in Accra on October 2nd. I coming back to buy land so I can build a home on it. I will retire in Accra in about 2 years or less. Last year was my first time there. I was there for 2 weeks. Enjoy every minute of my time there. It was great to be back home.
Sounds complex, but it is nothing to discourage someone. Buying land here (in Canadá ) is not so complicaded to many because the lawyer (almost always involved) deals with the complications. The only draw back there is how long the process takes...
One small thing you need to get is a handheld MICROPHONE near the speaker more so if wear a mask as the voice is muffled and a little hard to hear. BUT overall this is the first one and a good JOB has been done. Keep them coming **
We bought land and it was not like this. Simply check the registry to see who is the legal owner and only deal with them. As well, as it would be unwise to purchase land without a lawyer in any part of the world, Ghana is not exempt.
sis appreciate the work, keeping it coming
The problem happens in the capital. The chiefs, stool and or family pry on people to cheat them. Is always advisable to buy from already acquired land by a company. They new Ghanaians abroad vacation time in Ghana longest is 6 weeks, the moment you leave resales the land and they have all the time, do you?
Don't even trust the companies. I attempted to buy land through a company. They told me they had all the documents ready. I went to land commission to check the name on the land and guess what. It wasn't in the companies name. Like the lawyer said the name on the document from the seller should match what is at lands commission.
Wow that was very insightful!!
This is the exact video I have been waiting for you to do. Thank you so much V! You're really amazing!
Killed it for me and I really was thinking of investing in Ghana and in retirement doing half year or more in Ghana. Nope 👎🏽 I’ll take my acre (or much less) and a mule, here in the states. Trusting mine IS MINE.
Vanessa-thank you for the video.
Question: if I purchase a townhouse in a gated community, am I only leasing the townhome for 50 years? If so, do I get my money back if I cannot renew my leasing contract for an additional 50 years?
Leasing is like renting. At the end of the day it's not yours after the end if the contract
Has anyone actually ever heard of a landowner bring kicked off their land at the end of the lease? Local people will tell you it just doesn’t happen but perhaps that’s historic before land prices in Accra hit the roof in recent years and have become a hot asset. Safe to have a renewal clause of course but also bear in mind lawyers have a tendency to talk worse case scenario, put the fear in people. The higher the fear the higher the fee!
No one can kick you or your descendants out of house in Ghana.
The whole process is exhausting, however, I value your information. Good content!
Great informative video. This is very complex, I just feel sorry for diasporans who have been caught in a spiders web. I think buying a house or apartment in a complex maybe the best way forward 😊🙏🏾
Not everyone wants to live in a complex. Some people prefer to have more space between them and their neighbors and more privacy. To develop the land as they wish for example having more green space with vegetation. With a developed property you're limited almost like living in an HOA property
Great investigative work Vanessa. Can we have the contact details of the Lawyer you interviewed?
Yes. His contact details are needed urgently
I'm actually looking to but land in Sunyani, Ghana and I was doing my due diligence. I am very thankful that you made this video because I didn't know the process of getting the Chiefs approval or who to really go through I have a lawyer that's they're already working on it and I do believe he has have me a good faith but this puts me in Greater understanding so I can ask better questions I'm already going through the lands Commission and a lawyer so now I know how to proceed forward thank you
I’m thinking of buying a land there too. I don’t know why we’ve mad everything complicated
I really needed this ! Because i am ready. Thank you!!!
Great work Vanessa. I always knew that some youtubers commenting on this issue were either ignorant of the facts or misleading their viewers. People should avoid leasehold as far as possible. You or your inheritor will be at the mercy of the freeholder especially if you have developed the land. Whatever the freeholder demands to extend the lease, you or your inheritor will have no choice but to pay or lose your interest. Ghana was an attractive repat destination for me until this video.
@Pepi IV that's why he said you have to have a renewal clause in your lease stating the terms of renewal. Once the terms are agreed on, whoever inherits your lease will not have any surprises
Renewal clause!!!!!
Very very good! This is the most exhaustive & comprehensive explanation I've seen given re buying land in Ghana. Very good Vanessa. Kudos to you & your guest. To be forewarned is to be forearmed! "Caveat emptor."
Very informative. Thank you! Keep the great job.
Well done my son. This piece is very informative. Very proud of you xxxxx
interesting conservation and emu need more of those particularly in land acquisition. I need a part two
I am so glad I watched this video. What an eye opener.
Thanks Vanessa for this content, it very informative and helpful when purchasing property in Ghana. Great work 👏
Great information this was well explained
In spite of all these seemingly hazy legal jargons and cumbersome procedures, I would say that buying land in Ghana is just as easy as anywhere else in the world. It would seem complex to a foreigner after listening to this lawyer but for me as a Ghanaian the process is rather very simple. The complexities, it appears, exist in high end lands in Accra and other big cities.
I was intending to going to Ghana this year, however due to the Covid situation I do not know, have anyone seen the movie Joseph, I would recommend everyone to watch this, great production.vanessa I would like to reach out to you sometime.
Very good video on land ownership. I will be coming to Ghana to purchase land/house and this was very informative. Thanks.
i dont suggest you buy land in Ghana , unless u have lived there for about a year or more. you need to first know your whereabouts.
I cant wait to watch this!
Great, I appreciate your work.
Nicely done. I keep telling people to use a lawyer. That step cannot be skipped. If you do so, you are responsible for the end results.
What Lawyer do you suggest?
@@evadney1000 you can contact the lawyer in this video. I believe Vanessa has posted his details. Another reputable law firm is LithurBrew & Company
www.lithurbrew.com/
Email info@lithurbrew.com
Phone +233 302 248 105
Phone +233 302 248 104
AddressNo. 110B 1st Kade Close, Kanda Estate, Accra, Ghana |
I would never buy land in Ghana. Too many pitfalls. This video was exhausting to me here in America.
Aaaaawwww! That's too bad.
Yes. Im with you. I was ready to pull the trigger. I will visit Ghana but looking for a different african country to buy property
Many people have successfully bought and built their homes in Ghana. Don't let this video discourage you. Most people die driving on the roads in the the United States, does that stop
you from driving ???
same here
Oh, my God! I have a bad headache just trying to understand how to go about buying land in Ghana! Good luck!
Hello Vanessa, I learnt much from this video. Keep doing good
all lands in Ghana are not international investor friendly period. Only if you fully understand land , then you may buy but then also you maybe in litigation for years. Having possession is most important when oweing a land
You are doing a good job!
Informative but still can be complex. Hit me for registered land in Aburi near peduase lodge. Due diligence is paramount. Thanks, Vanessa, you're the best
What’s your email?
Please share your email or WhatsApp
How much are you selling for?
Yeah, your email would be very much appreciated.
Please your contact information: Email, WhatsApp, Facebook...?
🙏🏾 thanks complicated but informative
100% 🤣. Thanks
It does sound complex but at the same time, with a good professional, land acquisition can be a very smooth experience. My family sold land at Peduase (in the Aburi mountains) to a top lawyer in town recently. The lawyer did his due diligence and after satisfying himself with the results of his search, drafted a sale and purchase agreement. We had our lawyers look at it for their input, after which he made payment. We formally confirmed receipt of payment after which he prepared and submitted deed of assignment document for our signatures. He's already started developing. Very smooth transaction but that's simply because the parties did their due diligence.
@@puyelini how long did that process take please?
Thank you for the informative discussion! As there are so many consents, concurrents and conveyances involved... and with so little freehold land available, this seems to be additional disincentives for obtaining land or building a home there. A lease, even a 99-year lease with the possibility of extension, is still not 'ownership'. So, my question is: HOW would a potential buyer determine for certain, who ACTUALLY owns the land --- especially if even a Ghanaian lawyer cannot be certain? (And are buyers compensated for inaccurate conveyances?) Buyers could spend thousands of dollars and end up with nothing.
Unless the Constitution was changed, there are no freehold available for purchase by non citizens. Going ahead anyway is a risk that is up to each individual to weigh for themselves. But the prospect of losing your investment is very real. Thousands of people have learned the hard way.
How long is a reasonable time to receive allocation papers from the chief? We’ve been waiting 4 months! Every meeting with the chief gets postponed, isn’t there some higher power? How can they get away with not doing their job?
Thanks for the important information great knowledge 👍
Vanessa, great video (as usual)!!! One question/thought: Here in the US (and elsewhere) owning property is a major requirement in building family/generational wealth, with the leasing limitations in Ghana what options are there for mid/low income families to build wealth? This seems like a major limitation for the nation as a whole!? For instance, real-estate has contributed greatly to building the American middle class (and wealthy). Perhaps I'm missing something?
Well I guess the law is to protect the indigens from losing all their lands completely. Foreigners might end up acquiring everything and there will be nothing left to hand down to the unborn generations of the locals. Even with all these laws to protect theGhanaian, there are still many foreigners who are acquiring freeholds because of the loopholes and corruption in the system. A leasehold to a foreigner will that's ensure that after the expired term of the lease, the renewal clause is activated for perhaps the children of the initial seller to also benefit from the land which in most cases are family and stool lands. If all the lands are sold freehold to foreigners there will be no legacy left for the stools and families.
No one takes the land back once it is bought
Excellent, very informative. Thank you
Thank you for this video. Very insightful
Apply In-Person:
To Sub Dividing of Land in Ghana, the applicant has to approach the Land Commission office. Contact link
Land Ownership Search can be done in person by visiting the Land Commission Office or in any of their Land Offices in the applicant Local district/ Sub County.
Here, the applicant will be provided with an application for Official Search Form to fill and submit.
This form can also be obtained from the Land Commission Office.
The applicant has to make sure that he or she has all the required documents that are required for this process to be successful and they can be found under the "Required Documents" section of this page.
Payment of appropriate fees should be made and that can be found under the "Fees" section of this page.
Submit the completed form in two copies along with the supporting documents to the respective office.
This application will be processed and the information will be verified by the LC office.
After the search, one is issued with a stamped Certificate of Official search Form showing the status of the land.
The land search at Lands office takes an average of 3 days.
I would love to start a life in Ghana. Vanessa you make it look wonderful and see less with a lot of patience thrown in but I must say I am skeptical.
Thanks for another informative vid, Vanessa. Can you do a part 2 with the lawyer? Could he do these land search and due diligence? If he would, what are his contact details? Are you going to use his service Vanessa or are you going to do it yourself since you're already in Ghana? Definately love to follow this up.
Yes all the work he is talking about can be done by a lawyer. When I buy my land I’ll be using a lawyer after the first check with the lands commission. If the first check has the same name as the person selling then I’ll enlist a lawyers for the rest of the checks. If the first search comes back with a different name & the seller has a story which doesn’t make sense it’s almost not worth starting because it’s probably being sold by someone who can’t sell it.
Vanessa can I get the lawyer’s contact number or email.
I sent my $1200 for 100 by 100 too Asebuman project more than a year ago by Wire-transfer I still haven’teven received an email confirmation.
Very very complex. I bought my in spintex raod about 16yrs ago and lucky for I hired a lawyer. I remember paying the lawyer 2 thousand dollars in fees. U have to do ur homework. I was only 20yrs. I think being in America served me well.
2k, 16 years ago. I wonder what the fees are now.
Very good to hear America served you well, you don’t need to go anywhere.
$2000 for Lawyer fees is robbery ! You woefully overpaid !!
@@Crob100 look I heard some one saying I was ripped off. Recently as far back about 2017 . There was a new chief that was installed in the area and trust me . They tried to take the land . They took me to court and because I had my paperwork in order I prevailed. Due diligence isn't the word to describe it . With a young age at dat time i think i gave kudos to my self.
@@blossomjohnson2713 it gave me an eye opener because I have properties over here and knowing how I acquired those properties and the legalities involved. Thats what I meant it served me well. ...thanks
Hello there, Do you have the contact information for the m&O attorney you interviewed. Does he perform these task for others? I am highly interested in buying in ghana!
So complex you need a trustworthy real estate lawyer to petition on your behalf to garner the best deal.
And some lawyers are thieves and take your money and tie you up until you stressed and walked away.
It is really stressful in Ghana. The same Land can be sold to you twice or more in Accra.
@@namkebanyanklariti then the question is whom do you trust?
@@sonjahomer5381 exactly. That is why all the laws and customs governing land ownership need to be refined/simplified especially for members of the diaspora and black people in North America who want to return to their motherland and permanently live there. The govt must simplify for them at least.
@@namkebanyanklariti the government should simplify it for the diaspora but not for the citizens living in Ghana?
So many in comments got discouraged from video,if you want to live in Ghana go for it..jus like the lawyer said do your due diligence.If you give it up so easy just from a post you don’t belong there
Sounds complicated but also simple. Persons who sell virgin Lands have a site plan which makes it easy to trace the ownership. For buying a house is simpler to trace the ownership through the district council. The lawyer has good information however there is too much theory to what he is saying. He is doing his job though.
Thank you - very helpful. I wish he'd said more about acquiring land from the stool/chief because I've learned my late mother has land in Accra and the Chief wants her surviving children to present themselves physically to him before he will hand over the land. I really haven't got a clue how the process works - do we not own the land until the Chief says we do? I thought it was enough that it was my mother's land and just simply passes to her children by succession.
Great information,what happened when it's time to renew lease a lot can happen in 50 years I may not be around but my children and grandchildren will ,would they have pay again to renew lease and what would happen to them if the person's don't want to renew to my family in this country I have a will I leave everything to my grandchildren and great grandchildren the world is changing everyday like I said a lot can happen in 50 years
If you buy land from the government you need to be extra diligent. That sounds crazy. You would think buying from government is the best and safest option because it is the government. Such a shame. If a family can come for the land after the government has taken it from them and then take it back that opens up a real opportunity for being scammed. That is without all the other possibilities of family fractions.
Great job Vanessa! Once you have built a home have you heard of ways to find a reliable caretaker to manage the house if you are out of the country?
They want to keep the process complex and confusing. That way, those in control can stay in control.
Exactly!!
Finally!!!!
So my question is: Me, as an African American, If I decide to relocate to Ghana and purchase land follöwing all of the legal procedures on a 50 year ownership contract, or agreement, And I build a home on that land valued at $150,000 U.S, At the end of that 50 year period, ( taken into consideration 50 years is not a long time given that many people today live into their 80s and 90s), If the seller has the option of not renewing the first contract will he/ she or them have the responsibility of paying the proper value of the home one had constructed on the land. Or will the home and land be considered as a lost if the Original owner decide not to renew the initial contract?
As Emmanuel said you can write into the initial contract a renewal clause so that it’s guaranteed. & if you didn’t do that & didn’t Renew they wouldn’t have to pay you for the property on there land.
I’ve never heard of someone not being able to renew land personally.
Thanks for bringing this to my attention
Vanessa, you are essential. Thank you.
Well done Vanessa
I am thinking of buying land there but I am not sure if I want to because you don't own the land at all
looking into buying land there, thanks for the info 🙂
99% of the people saying, "it's so complex" don't own land and have never tried to purchase LAND in their country of origin. Where in the world do you know that gives land away for nothing and easily.
Well said!!
Exactly! This isn’t buying a built home in a suburb, which can also feel complex the first time you do it.
Vanessa, thank you very much. I would not have expected the process to be as complex as it is but I have seen similar circumstances in other countries which have long histories before these "modern" times. I've spent some time in Norway and was told of court cases where the non-head of a Clan had disposed of property then years later the primary descendant of the rightful Clan leader shows up from some other country to claim the family land. The government(and courts) are 100% in favor of the traditional heir. They were able to track who left the country, when and where they were headed. If the lane was not in heavy use with no squatters, all good. If a town/city had been built, it's a big issue resolvable by "$$$$$$$" I would think that to be "covered" in Ghana, I would hire a professional and asked to be involved with all aspects of the necessary permissions. As an older person it would be rather taxing to face a legal fight or other type of conflict with someone who has a legitimate claim on the property. Your post is a real eye opener... Thank you again! In your search, will you use family members for advice?
It's also very important to talk to the locals in the environs where you wish to buy the land. They usually have rich knowledge of the land owners. That together with a search at the various land registry offices will give you a good idea as to whom to deal with in buying your preferred land.
I plan to come and see the houses before I buy one
If there is no straight way to it then its gonna be difficult and the govt must put things in place
We are in the UK ( british/ Ghanaians) we need desperately need legal advice about our property in ghana, can anyone highly recommend a property lawyer in Ghana
@Vanessa Kanbi, My brother in-law is the author for Freedom AKA Nana Kwame Bediako.