Most Ghanaians at one point rent homes for accommodation. How do you ensure which house best suits your needs? Do you contact any real estate agent or you do the search yourself? How do you make sure you are getting value for the money you will be paying for? Here is a practical guide to renting a house in Ghana.

1. Conducting the Search

   There are various ways of conducting searches for properties. Online search is becoming one of the most popular means through which people find houses. meQasa has even made the process simpler by introducing a toll-free line for people searching for properties. A number of people resort to newspapers or notice boards or the more traditional method of speaking to relatives or friends about properties they can rent.

2. Selecting a real estate agent:

   You may want to consider employing the services of a real estate agent. Real estate agents can easily link you to properties that will suit your needs. In selecting a real estate agent, ensure they have access to the property they are recommending to you. If possible, speak to the house owner about your intentions.  Ask the necessary questions including their charges. Most agents charge a commission for the service they provide to house-hunters. Make sure you agree on the fee before hiring them.

3. Identifying a property

   How do you identify a property? This can be done by taking into consideration your family size, proximity to your place of work, the size of the rooms and if the house meets your needs. Many people select properties based on just the price or the type of property, forgetting all about the proximity to their workplace. Proximity to your place of work should be one of the factors you should consider before taking a property because that can even determine your productivity at work, especially if it is far from your place.

4. Choosing the best property

   Before agreeing on the best rental, make sure you weigh all your options available. Does the house have access to drinkable water and electricity? How long will it take you to drive or walk to your workplace? Who are your neighbours? What is the history of that neighbourhood in terms of security? It is also important to have a fair knowledge of who your landlord or landlady is. Are there better properties you can go for in that same neighbourhood? Make sure you answer these questions before making your decision.

5. Negotiate the Price 

   A number of people wonder whether it is acceptable to negotiate the rent with the landlord. Yes, it is. In Ghana, everything is negotiable including rents. Make sure you have a look at the tenancy agreement, if it suits you then you can go ahead and negotiate. Do not be afraid to walk away if the property does not suit your need.

These steps should guide you to rent the best property. What are your own guidelines when it comes to renting a property? Share with us your thoughts on social media!