Common Land Scams in Ghana and How to Avoid Them (Accra Guide)

Common Land Scams in Ghana and How to Avoid Them (Accra Guide)
Buying land in Accra is one of the best investments you can make. However, it is also one of the riskiest if you are not careful. Every year, hundreds of people lose their hard-earned money to fraudulent land sales.

To protect yourself, it’s important to understand the most common scams, how they work, and practical steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.
1. Double or Multiple Sales of the Same Land
This is the most common scam in Accra. A dishonest seller may sell the same plot of land to multiple buyers. Each buyer receives an indenture, but only one person (usually the first to register a land title) will be legally recognized.

👉 How to avoid it:
- Conduct a search at the Lands Commission before making payment.
- Ask neighbors or chiefs around the land if it has been sold before.
- Insist on registering the land immediately after purchase.
2. Fake Land Documents
Fraudsters sometimes create forged indentures, site plans, or even fake land titles. These documents may look authentic but are worthless in court.

👉 How to avoid it:
- Always verify documents directly at the Lands Commission.
- Hire a lawyer or licensed surveyor to confirm the validity of the site plan.
- Be suspicious of sellers who rush you or avoid verification.
3. Selling Land Without Proper Authority
Some family members or caretakers sell land without the knowledge or approval of the actual family head, chief, or owner. Later, the rightful owner may come forward to challenge the sale.

👉 How to avoid it:
- Meet the recognized family head or chief in person.
- Ask for proof of their authority to sell (stool/family head signatures).
- Make sure all principal members of the family consent to the sale.
4. Encroachment and Unapproved Sales
Sometimes, land sold to you may already belong to the government (for roads, schools, or other public projects) or fall within restricted areas. This means you cannot develop it legally.

👉 How to avoid it:
- Check zoning and planning regulations at the Town and Country Planning Department.
- Verify with the Lands Commission if the land is earmarked for government projects.
5. Middlemen and 'Caretaker' Fraud
Unscrupulous middlemen pose as landowners or caretakers and collect money from unsuspecting buyers. Later, the real owner may deny knowledge of the sale.

👉 How to avoid it:
- Deal directly with the true landowner or their officially appointed lawyer.
- Avoid making payments through third parties unless they provide legal authorization.
- Always demand receipts and signed agreements.
Practical Example (Accra Case)
In East Legon Hills, a man bought a 2-acre plot from someone who claimed to be the family caretaker. He received indentures and even started developing the land. Months later, the rightful family head appeared and took the matter to court, stating the caretaker had no authority to sell.

The buyer lost almost all his investment because the land was resold legally to another person who went ahead to register a land title.

👉 Lesson learned: Always confirm the seller’s authority and register your land title quickly after purchase.
How to Protect Yourself from Land Scams in Accra
- Always conduct a search at the Lands Commission.
- Work with a trusted lawyer during every transaction.
- Avoid paying cash — use traceable methods like bank transfers.
- Demand receipts and contracts for every payment.
- Register your land title immediately to secure ownership.
Final Word
Land scams in Ghana are real, but with the right precautions, you can avoid them. The safest way to buy land in Accra is to work with a trusted and registered real estate company.
📞 At My Time Estates, we provide litigation-free land, full documentation support, and professional guidance to make your land purchase safe and stress-free. Contact us today to secure your future with peace of mind.