Republic Bank JoyNews Habitat Fair: Be careful when buying land – Lands Commission to prospective homeowners

The Lands Commission is warning prospective homeowners to take care when purchasing land, as failing to properly verify ownership and register the property can lead to fraud, double sales and costly litigation. At the JoyNews Habitat Fair, the Commission stressed that buyers must conduct thorough due diligence before committing to land purchases.

Acting Deputy Executive Secretary Surv. Raphael Hokey emphasized the long-term financial implications of land acquisition and advised buyers to verify land ownership, conduct searches and obtain site plans before making any payments. He highlighted the significance of land ownership in Ghana, where a large portion of land is held under customary arrangements, making it crucial for buyers to ensure they are dealing with the rightful owner.

Searches at the Lands Commission can typically be completed within a day, while more complex transactions may take longer. Buyers should be wary of sellers who refuse to provide site plans, as this could indicate potential issues. Mr Hokey cautioned against rushing into construction before obtaining the necessary permits, as this would be illegal.

He also urged landowners to register their properties after acquisition, as registration provides important proof of ownership and can help protect buyers from future disputes. The Commission's presence at the Habitat Fair aims to provide prospective homeowners with valuable information on the entire process of secure home ownership.