When Buying Land in Ghana – Copy
Last month, a member of our community almost lost $40,000 in what seemed like a legitimate land deal in Greater Accra. The documents looked official, the agent seemed professional, and the price was “too good to pass up.” Sound familiar? After 15 years of helping diaspora clients navigate land purchases across Ghana, I’ve seen every scam imaginable. The good news? Most fraudulent deals share the same red flags. Learn to spot them, and you’ll save yourself from financial disaster. Red Flag #1: The Price is “Too Good” If a plot in a desirable area is priced 30% below market rate, there’s a reason. Either the documentation is questionable, there are hidden disputes, or the land doesn’t exist as described. Always ask: “Why is this cheaper than comparable properties?” Real example: A client was offered land in Trasacco Valley at $45/sqm when the going rate was $65/sqm. Investigation revealed the land was in a litigation that had been ongoing for 7 years. The “seller” didn’t even have legal claim to it. Red Flag #2: Pressure to Pay Quickly “Another buyer is coming tomorrow” or “This price is only good until Friday” are classic pressure tactics. Legitimate sellers understand that diaspora buyers need time for due diligence. Anyone rushing you is hiding something. Red Flag #3: The Agent Avoids the Land Registry If an agent gives excuses about why you can’t verify the title at the Lands Commission (“it’s being processed,” “we’ll do it after you pay,” “the office is closed for renovations”), run. Title verification should happen before any money changes hands. Red Flag #4: No Proper Survey Plan A legitimate plot comes with a detailed survey plan showing exact boundaries, coordinates, and neighboring properties. If they only show you a hand-drawn sketch or refuse to provide the official plan, assume the worst. Red Flag #5: Cash-Only Transactions Insistence on cash payments with no paper trail is a massive red flag. All legitimate transactions should go through proper banking channels with clear documentation. This protects both parties and creates a legal record. Red Flag #6: The Seller Isn’t Who They Claim to Be Always verify the seller’s identity and their right to sell. Get their ID, cross-reference with land documents, and if possible, meet them at the property with a witness. Imposters are more common than you think. Red Flag #7: No Access to the Physical Land If they make excuses about why you can’t visit the land (“the owner is using it for farming,” “it’s not accessible right now”), don’t proceed. You should be able to walk the boundaries and meet neighbors before buying. What to Do If You Spot These Red Flags Don’t feel embarrassed about walking away. The diaspora community has lost millions to land fraud. Your caution isn’t paranoia; it’s smart business. Here’s what to do instead: