When Did Renting in Ghana Become This Exploitative?

Renting a home in Ghana should be a straightforward process, but for many, it is a nightmare filled with frustration, deception, and unmet expectations. Whether you are a renter trying to lease out your property or a client searching for a place to call home, you have likely encountered some of the worst experiences the housing market has to offer.

Let’s start with the outrageous viewing fees. Imagine spending weeks looking for a place to rent, only to find out that you must pay a hefty fee just to view a property. Some agents charge anywhere between GHS 50 and GHS 200 per viewing—whether or not you take the place. In some cases, clients are shown properties that look nothing like the photos advertised, a clear bait-and-switch tactic that leaves them feeling deceived and robbed. Others even pay the viewing fee and show up, only to be told the place has already been taken.

And then there are the agents who demand a 10% commission upfront before securing a place. Why should someone pay such a fee before they even get the keys? It’s a system that is deeply flawed and often unfair to potential renters who are already struggling with rising rental costs.

But let’s be fair—some clients are not without fault. It is not uncommon for someone with a GHS 800 budget to expect a fully furnished two-bedroom apartment in a prime location like East Legon or Cantonments. While affordability is a major concern, some renters do not do their research and instead waste agents’ time demanding luxury at bargain prices. This unrealistic mindset makes the process even more frustrating for landlords and agents who struggle to meet such demands.

Another common problem is time-wasting clients. Some individuals schedule multiple viewings, visit different properties, and then disappear without giving any feedback. Some even go as far as negotiating the rent down, only to back out at the last minute, leaving landlords in limbo.

Renters, however, also face their fair share of headaches. Many landlords in Ghana demand a one- or two-year rent advance, which is simply impossible for the average worker to afford. This system forces many tenants into financial distress, borrowing money or taking loans just to secure a place to live.

Then there’s the issue of unlivable conditions. Some landlords refuse to fix basic amenities, leaving tenants stuck with leaking roofs, broken pipes, and faulty electrical wiring. Yet, they have no problem increasing the rent when the lease is up. It’s a one-sided game where tenants are often left with little to no power to negotiate.

So, where do we go from here? Clearly, both sides have valid complaints. The renting system in Ghana is broken and in need of serious reforms. Standardized rental policies, proper regulation of agent fees, and clear guidelines for landlords and tenants could go a long way in easing these frustrations.

If you have ever experienced any of these rental nightmares, you’re not alone. Join the conversation on our podcast, where we dive deeper into the housing crisis in Ghana, featuring real stories from both renters and clients. 

WATCH HERE: Why Are Landlords Demanding 2 Years Rent in Accra | Renter vs. Agent