Are you planning to build your dream home in Ghana and want to know what it entails – the process and the estimated cost? You’ve come to the right place. Keep reading. Did you know that Ghana builds 35,000 to 40,000 housing units per year? (The census Housing report) .What is your goal for the development? And I mean, do you want to build and live in or sell or rent out for cash-flow?
More than 100,000 units is forecast. This means that there are more units coming into the market for sale. Whatever your intentions are these steps will still. Let’s take a look at the real estate market in Ghana. Residential units have increased in the last decade by 72.8% (from 3,392,745 in 2010 to 5,862,890 in 2021) All around Accra and the regions there is building going on. In fact the residential units makes up of 70% of the construction sector.
Read also:BUYING Vs BUILD A HOUSE IN GHANA, WHICH IS BETTER?
Enough dancing, let me walk you through the factors you need to consider before embarking on building your home or development project in Ghana.
Budgeting
Obviously, there can’t be any development without financing. The first thing to do is set a budget- how much money are you willing to spend on the development? How are you going to finance it? Is it going to be self-financing or construction loan?
Be realistic by factoring worst case scenarios. Think of what could possibly go wrong or cost over-run. A realistic budget is vital for the successful completion of your dream house. I will advise you to get bill of quantities prepared by quantity surveyor. That way you will be more prepared and budget well. Don’t start building without first analyzing the cost involved. If you ever wonder why there are so many uncompleted structures in Accra, most is because owners didn’t budget well – this include some public unsuccessful structures as well.
If you want to use mortgage or construction loan I will advice you to shop around several local mortgage banks for their requirements, terms and interest rates that best suit you. Just be aware that Ghanaian banks interest rates are as high as 24% and upwards. This might not be suitable for everyone.
Read also:How to Self-finance or Use Mortgage Banks in Ghana to Buy Your Home
Pick Your Location
I’m assuming you bought your land RIGHT so there want be any litigations in the future. That said, again back to the question of what your goal is, location is a crucial factor to consider. If you want to build a family home and raise a family you may want to make sure you are proximity to social amenities such as schools and healthcare centres. You may also want to do some due diligence on the area. You don’t want build your home in flood prone zone like Weija, Tse Addo, etc where your house will be submerged underwater during raining rainy seasons.
Whether you prefer the bustling city life or the tranquility of the countryside, Ghana offers a diverse range of options. From the vibrant capital city of Accra to the serene coastal towns and the savannah landscape, each location has its unique charm and benefits.
Read also:What areas are prone to flooding in Accra Ghana?
Hire Professionals
I get it, most home builders try to serve money by not hiring architect. But hiring one will rather save you money in the long run. Building a house is a complex undertaking and little mistakes could cost you more than what you should have paid for a professional. From start to finish requires the expertise of various professionals. Don’t play penny, and wise pound foolish game.
To ensure a smooth and risk free construction process, it’s essential to engage with the right experts. Seek the services of reputable architects, engineers, contractors, and project managers who have a thorough understanding of the local building regulations and standards. Working with professionals will help you translate your vision into a structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing reality. Don’t play cheap or try to cut corners. In fact the experts could help you reduce cost and save money.
Home Design
It is no brainer, you have to design to get right. Designing your dream house is an exciting phase of the construction process. Traditionally, our fathers to uses traditional way of designing. But collaborate with an experienced architect who can bring your vision to life while considering functional aspects, aesthetics, and sustainability. Bring on board local architectural elements and materials that blend harmoniously with the Ghanaian landscape and cultural heritage will enhance your building beauty. Ensure your design incorporates ample natural light, ventilation, and space optimization to create a comfortable and inviting home. Depends on your location, building orientation to North East, West will bring sunlight into the building.
Building Permit
Most people structures are been pulled down by local assemblies because home builders didn’t obtain building permits. You don’t want your structure pulled down, do you? Before commencing any construction work, it’s crucial to obtain the necessary legal and regulatory approvals.
Make some time and visit local assembly town planning department to enquire about the location of your land. This is to make sure it on earmarked for public projects or whether it is situated on water ways. Obtain all required permits, and regulations to ensure compliance throughout the project. These requirements may include building permits, environmental impact assessments, and other relevant documentation. Adhering to these simple process will save you from potential future complications and ensure your house is built legally and not regarded as illegal structure. What happens to those structure? They are demolished and owners’ money goes down the drain, just like that.
Pick Materials
How are you going to put up the structure? Are you going to build by yourself or hire a third party builder? Building it yourself will save you some money if you have the expertise and no how so there won’t be cracks on the walls or foundations issues later on.
Selecting the right materials is pivotal in building a durable and long-lasting house. Also the materials dictates the cost that comes with it. Gone in the days Ghanaians sourced local materials like local wood, roofs, concrete blocks, clay bricks, local blocks, nails etc. But with infiltration of imported materials locals taste for materials are shifting to western materials.
Of course imported building materials are costly than locally sourced materials. What type of materials do you plan to use? Consider the climate the soil and environmental factors in your chosen location to determine the most suitable materials. Engage with experienced contractors and expert who prioritize quality craftsmanship and adhere to best practices for construction to advise you on materials to use.
Interior Design
It is the finishing which is costly not the building process. Now, it’s time to focus on the interior design and finishing touches of your dream house. You may want to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere by carefully selecting furniture, decor, and color schemes that reflect your personal style.
You can do it yourself if you have the skills on consider working with professional interior designers who can assist in creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing living space. Of course a good professional interior designer will give you the design worth your money.
Whatever your taste is, pay attention to details such as lighting, flooring, and fixtures to add that final touch of elegance and comfort to your home
Landscaping
Landscape the property appeal and increase its value. Think of it this way, suppose you have a choice to buy two homes: one with beautiful lawns and with carefully planned lush landscaping and outdoor spaces, the other bare land as it is called “SAKORA” backyard, which one will you go for? Of course the well landscaped one. Nature beautiful homes. Who doesn’t like beauty? It is just the way it is.
Ghana’s tropical climate allows for lush gardens, vibrant flowers, and inviting outdoor living areas. Incorporate indigenous plants, create cozy seating areas, and design pathways that connect different parts of your property. A well-designed outdoor space not only adds aesthetic value but also provides a serene environment for relaxation and entertainment. Seeing your kids playing in the green grass while you watch is satisfying, isn’t it?
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Read also:The 9 Advantages Of Living In A Gated Community In Accra
Extras
This is a bonus but also enhance your property value. Incorporating sustainable practices and energy-efficient solutions in your house design will not only reduce your environmental impact but also provide long-term cost savings.
If you have the means consider renewable energy options such as solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and rainwater harvesting systems. Embrace eco-friendly construction techniques that prioritize water and energy conservation, waste management, and the use of locally sourced and recycled materials. You may also install smart home gadgets and technology to make your life much easier.
Also, install reliable security systems, including burglar alarms, surveillance cameras, and sturdy locks. If you have the means install fire safety measures such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and fire-resistant building materials.
Cost Estimates
The cost of constructing a house in Ghana can vary widely, starting from GHS 400,000 and going up to GHC 900,000 or even more. These costs are dependent on various factors. Again, please keep in mind that with constant increase in cement, these estimate could double. However, below is a breakdown of the approximate expenses for a 4-bedroom house:
Foundation
If you went the foundation wrong, you are screwed . Spend as much as necessary to get it right.
Approximately GHS 20,000 to GHS 30,000
Building structure
These includes the walls, roof, and floors.
Approximately GHS 50,000 to GHS 200,000.
Electrical and plumbing systems
Approximately GHS 20,000 to GHS 30,000
Windows and doors
Approximately GHS 20,000 to GHS 40,000
Interior finishes
Harwood floors, paint, tiles, furniture, kitchen cabinets. Everyone’s interior finishing taste varies from the types of materials, the quality and its durability .You should be budgeting GHS 50,000 to GHS 200,000
Permits and fees
One of the reasons people build structures everywhere without permit is the cost associated with getting building permits. You should have a budget from GHS 10,000 to GHS 20,000 to pay for it.
Conclusion
Building your dream house is an exciting endeavor but also time consuming and lots of headaches. It requires careful planning, collaboration with experts, and it all right especially the land and budgeting. Make sure you have a contingencies in case cost over-run. In Ghana prices of goods increases unexpected and never decrease. I can’t stress that enough. But if you stick to the advised I outlined you can ensure a successful construction journey and create a home that exceeds your expectations.
Take Away
Are you a foreigner looking to make Ghana your next home or a Ghanaian living abroad? Or you are a local looking for professional real estate service provider in Accra Ghana? We have received several request from our platform visitors looking for real estate services. That is why we set up Villashark one-stop-shop diaspora services , serving all your real estate needs in Ghana. There are 60,000 court cases all related to real estate – land litigation. 40% of people attended court hearing and about 60% attended court hearing a 100 times. 15000 cases are pending and only 20% cases are resolve. You don’t want to spend the rest of your life fighting in court to win your land back.
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