Are you an expat looking to move to Ghana but dreading the idea of breaking the bank on housing? Fear not, dear traveler! Finding affordable housing in Ghana may seem daunting, but with a little bit of research and a sprinkle of creativity, you’ll be lounging on your own balcony overlooking the bustling streets of Accra in no time.
In this guide, we’ll be sharing the top 5 tips and tricks for finding the perfect pad that won’t drain your bank account. From networking with other expats to negotiating rent, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, grab a cup of Ghanaian tea, and let’s get started on finding your new home sweet home!
Tip #1: Scout the Neighborhoods like a Pro
Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s essential to do your homework and research the different neighborhoods and areas of Ghana. Just like in any other city, the neighborhoods in Ghana can vary greatly in terms of safety, amenities, and cost. By taking the time to research, you’ll be able to narrow down your search and find a place that fits your lifestyle and budget.
One of the best ways to research neighborhoods is by using online resources. Using Google Maps can give you a bird’s-eye view of the area, including the location of major roadways, shopping markets, and residential layouts. Then, hop online and check out local blogs or forums to get a feel for the community and read reviews from other expats.
Another great way to research neighborhoods is by talking to other expats who have already made the move. Expat groups on Facebook and Meetup are great places to connect with people who have first-hand experience living in Ghana. You can ask them about their favorite neighborhoods and get real-life advice on what to look for and what to avoid.
When it comes to popular neighborhoods for expats, Osu, Labone, and East Legon are often at the top of the list. Osu is known for its lively nightlife and international cuisine, Labone is a residential neighborhood with a mix of expat and local families and East Legon is an upscale neighborhood with lots of amenities. But remember, these areas are popular with expats, which makes them more expensive than most. If your budget is front of mind, then these may be areas for you to avoid.
Ultimately, what works for one person may not work for another, so it’s essential to do your own research and find the best fit for you.
Tip #2: Harness the Power of the Internet
In today’s digital age, online rental platforms have made finding affordable housing in Ghana easier than ever. These platforms connect renters with landlords and property managers, providing a wealth of options at your fingertips.
Some popular online rental platforms for expats in Ghana include Jumia House and Tonaton. These platforms offer a wide range of properties, from apartments to houses, and from budget-friendly options to luxury rentals. They also offer various search filters, such as location, price, and number of bedrooms, to help you find the perfect place.
To make the most out of online rental platforms, it’s a good idea to set up alerts. This way, you’ll be notified as soon as a new listing that matches your criteria is posted. Additionally, you can also filter your search results to only show the most relevant properties. This will save you a lot of time and energy when looking for a new place to call home.
Another tip is to be aware of the fees that some platforms may charge, such as service fees or commissions. Be sure to factor these fees into your budget when comparing different properties. Also, be sure to verify the authenticity of the listing and communicate directly with the landlord or property manager to avoid scams.
In short, online rental platforms can be a valuable tool for finding affordable housing in Ghana. By utilizing the power of the internet, you can save time and energy while finding your dream home.
Tip #3: Make Expat Friends like a Pro
Want to find the perfect pad in Ghana without breaking the bank? Look no further than your fellow expats! Networking with other folks who have made the move can be the key to unlocking the best deals on housing.
But how do you go about building these expat connections? Fear not, there are plenty of ways to do so! Joining expat groups on Facebook and attending expat events are just a couple of options. It’s a great way to make friends and learn from people who have been through the housing search process before.
And the benefits of networking are real. Just imagine, you could hear about a rental before it’s even listed online, or even better, get a referral from a friend which can save you time and money. So don’t be shy, get out there and start networking with your expat peers. It’s the ultimate win-win situation!
For a lot of bi-continential expats, or those who spend part of the year abroad and the other stateside, they have rental property available! You can even pay them from your US account in dollars to make the transaction easier and safer. They are looking for responsible people to rent to, just like you. In short, networking with other expats is a fun and effective way to find affordable housing in Ghana.
Tip #4: Be a Pro Negotiator!
Are you worried about overpaying for your housing in Ghana? Well, it’s time to sharpen your negotiation skills! By negotiating the rent and other terms, you can often find more affordable housing options.
But what exactly should you be negotiating? Rent, of course, is at the top of the list. But don’t forget to also consider the length of the lease and any additional amenities. Most of the time you can get the price to decrease by increasing the duration of your lease. Just remember that most landlords ask for the entire term’s rent upfront. That means you could be paying one or two YEARS of rent at once and upfront.
How do you become a master negotiator? First and foremost, do your research. Knowing the market rates will give you an upper hand. Look around for other options in your neighborhood and in adjacent areas so you have the best grasp of local pricing.
And don’t be afraid to walk away if the deal isn’t in your favor. Sometimes the ‘walk-away’ tactic is the move you need to lock in the best price. No one wants to see money walking out the door. As an old Ghanaian folktale opines, ‘If you love it, be willing to talk away from it. If it comes back to you, it’s yours. If it doesn’t, there’s something else waiting for you’… or something like that.
Remember, there are plenty of housing options out there. Try to be charming and friendly, it will be more likely that the landlord will try to reach a compromise with you that includes any repairs, upgrades, or amenities. Don’t be afraid to haggle, and don’t settle for anything less than you deserve. You can do this!
Tip #5: Share the Love (and the Rent) with House Sharing!
Are you struggling to find affordable housing in Ghana? Well, it’s time to consider the age-old tradition of house-sharing! Not only can it save you money, but it also allows you to live with like-minded individuals and make new friends.
But, like with any living arrangement, there are pros and cons to consider. On the one hand, you’ll have someone to split the bills with and make the house feel less empty. This can be great for the pocketbook and for security reasons. On the other hand, you’ll have to navigate potential differences in lifestyle and cleanliness. You may also have to put up with a roommate who likes their goat stew funky.
So, how do you find the perfect housemate? It’s all about setting clear expectations and conducting background checks. Make sure to have a conversation about things like cleaning schedules and overnight guests. And, don’t be afraid to run a quick background check to ensure you’re living with someone trustworthy.
So, don’t be afraid to share the love (and the rent) with house sharing. It just might be the perfect solution for finding affordable housing in Ghana.
Finding Affordable Housing in Ghana
Well folks, that’s a wrap! We’ve covered the top 5 tips for finding affordable housing in Ghana. From networking with other expats to house sharing, these tips are sure to help you find your perfect pad without breaking the bank.
But don’t take our word for it, give these tips a try in your own housing search. And, if you want even more valuable insights and inspiration, be sure to check out videos about moving to Ghana on the Expat Life Ghana YouTube channel.
But, we want to hear from you too! Share your own tips and experiences with finding affordable housing in Ghana in our Facebook Group. Who knows, your advice could help out a fellow expat in need.
So don’t be shy, get out there and start your housing search with confidence. Happy hunting!