If you’re moving to Accra for work or study, finding an apartment is one of the first things on your list. It’s important to find somewhere safe, convenient and affordable – and there are a lot of factors to consider. Fortunately, it won’t be too difficult to find your perfect match with a little bit of preparation. The rental process in Accra can be slightly different from what you are used to back home, but nothing that can’t be managed with some insider knowledge. Here is an insider's guide on how to rent an apartment in Accra without breaking a sweat.
Accra has a few unique features when it comes to real estate that you’ll want to be aware of. Firstly, there is a distinction between ‘renting’ and ‘leasing’ property. As a general rule, leases are for 1 year and above, and renting is for less than a year. Depending on the location of your apartment, you can expect to pay between $100 and $750 per month. The closer you are to the city centre, the higher the price.
The first important step to finding your dream apartment is deciding on your budget. Make a list of all your other expenses, such as utilities and utility deposits, internet, food, transport, and so on. Then, take a look at the average price of renting an apartment in your area. Add a few hundred dollars to this amount to allow for unexpected costs. Your budget should also take into account your visa status. A resident permit holder will have to pay a regular fee at the Immigration Department. The fee is $25 for a period of 4 years, or $50 for 1 year.
Make sure to put in a little research before you start your search for an apartment. After you’ve decided on your budget, it’s time to put together a shortlist of suitable apartments. - Consider the neighborhood - Is it safe? What are the neighbors like? All of this will affect your quality of life so it’s worth thinking about before making a decision. - Search on the internet - Accra might be a small city but there are plenty of real estate sites that can help you find your perfect home. - Visit estate agents - Be sure to check out real estate agents and make a shortlist of the apartments you find suitable.
After you’ve shortlisted some suitable apartments, it’s time to start contacting the landlords. - Make sure you have your CV and visa letter (if you are a student) ready. - Make a list of questions you want to ask the landlord, such as the monthly rent, utilities, parking facilities, etc. - Never make a decision without visiting the apartment first. - If you have time, try and visit more than one apartment.
Once you’ve found a few options that you like, it’s time to make an offer. - Contact the landlords and let them know you’re interested in renting their apartment. - Give them a short summary of who you are and why you’d be a good tenant. - Ask them about their terms and conditions, such as the length of the lease, deposit amount, payment schedule, etc. - Once you have an agreement, you can start doing the necessary paperwork.
Depending on the neighborhood where you decide to rent, you might have to work with a security company. - Find out the requirements for the neighborhood you are looking at. - Visit the security company in person and let them know you’re interested in renting an apartment from their client list. - You will have to pay a fee to become a member of the security company. - Working with a security company will also require you to submit your passport and/or a police report. - Note that the process can take up to 2 weeks.
Moving to a new city is always stressful, but luckily, there are plenty of ways to make the process easier. From finding the right real estate agent to making a good first impression, there are plenty of tips that can make the process a lot smoother. Once you are settled, you will be thanking yourself for finding the right place to call home. When moving, you have to consider a lot of different things, and that includes finding a place to live. For most people, that means finding an apartment or a rental home, and it can be a lot easier than you think. If you follow these tips, you can find the perfect place to live without too much stress.
