This is a much needed conversation for many trying to move and own homes overseas. I have bought land , put up a perimeter wall. I have done my plans and had a quantity surveyor , structural engineer and architect give me the total cost with the current market value. A BOQ would be the document for itemized costs. I already did borehole analysis as well. If anything the thing left is me going to source the materials on my own , being available etc. it helps because am originally born in that country but lived overseas for awhile so am using my brother to help with procurement. Government fees are also something I needed to include in my budget. Generator we purchased here and solar lights as well. We also had to think about the immersion pump for the borehole Another thing to stress is creation of passive income. I can’t shout enough about it. Another thing I would advice you about the compound is put a gate on it even if you use iron sheets for now. Keep unwanted people out as you construct. Thanks for all the tips 😊
You are very on point and detailed. You gave all the helpful information. As a Ghanaian building in Ghana I know the experience and you are really helpful information for new people that are interested. I really recommend your Chanel. Good job
I think the RKE management should name the road infront your house "The Bodley's Road" as a reference and a sign of appreciation for you being the first people to start building in phase 3, you deserve that. Hope RKE is watching ...
Lisa this is valuable information. Thank you very much. There are so many things that need to be done and I really believe that it’s imperative to be on the site to get this done.
I think another important consideration that Americans must come to grips with is fixtures and fittings. Everything will need to be imported in to Ghana unlike in the U.S. where you have the choice between locally manufactured and imports. Wonderfully the quality and variety is increasing in Ghana but one of my biggest frustration is that most imports still cater to a very narrow local aesthetic so my advice, if you have the time and money it is worth making a quick trip to Turkey and China to source all your fixtures and fittings there. Buying from wholesalers or retailers in China and Turkey will easily save you 70% off anything priced locally and you will have all the variety you want. Even with the shipping costs and duties included plus many vendors in Turkey and China will handle all the logistics, custom clearance et al for you at cost.
@@myrnajames1460why do you want to go to Turkey or China? Are you saying on a whole continent you cannot find fixtures and fittings. I am building in Ghana and everything is sourced locally. I am building a 7 bedroom house. Nothing will be imporef from Chiba or Turkey. Everything I need is in Ghana or neighboring countries. Support the local businesses that is how you create jobs
@@myrnajames1460 Hi there, I don’t have company names in Turkey and China. What said in the video that Chicago and Turkish security doors are here in Ghana
They price you the foundation and superstructure. Some will include roof and others won't. Everything else is seperate. Know if you want 220v or 120v or both (yes you can sepnup for both)
There needs to be a shared database of builders and vendors available to diaspora as a resource. Multiple quotes are needed. We have seen vast difference in every genre of building.
Hi Lisa it’s Tamesha. I was so excited about our move but now my spirit has been dampened 💔. Thank you for being so transparent, kind, uplifting, and always dropping gems 💎. There are so many people in diaspora who need guidance so they don’t end up in a bad deal 😢 or overpriced when buying land and building.
I’m so sorry my sister that your spirit has been broken! This makes me really sad. I pray that The Most High will restore your heart for the move . I believe HE is working it out for your good. Stay diligent in your efforts to recover what is rightfully yours. I’m praying for you and as discussed you will here from me in Sunday
An option is to use a company that gives you a fixed price for your build where they take care of everything...of course, you should still be on site if possible.
Fortunately, there are companies using rammed earth to build homes, which is affordable. I can build a simple, fully furnished two bedroom house for $65k including the land... On the other hand, some will/can spend $130K-$200K for the same. Figure out what you want. CZcams is also a great research tool if you still plan to move to Ghana... Good Luck.
Sis breaking it down as you have allows for better preparations. I do agree to getting everything itemized. I know there will be surprises but I just prefer to have my ducks in a row in advance.
Hello Lisa - This is a very helpful video and very appreciated. Thanks for the helpful information you provided to those still in the planning stage. One more thing to add to the list is air condition. They don’t do central air like most places in the USA, therefore you have to do one spilt unit per room.
Well for sure your eyes are open and you can be a valuable asset for others coming to Ghana, in essence you are paying American prices all around. Betta be there and write up and record, watch corner cutting, remember we are all the melanin Africans but we are Not the same people. Or shall I say tribe. Different tribes people different cultures we tend to box all melanin in the same box. Africa is a continent. All Europeans are not Germany, you got polish etc same for Hispanics not all are Mexicans. We just have to be mindful and care about doing the right thing. Thanks Bodley’s for info if it was the other way around you all would appreciate the support. ❤
I wish I watched this video before I said yes to build my wall. I thought my quote included everything smh just today I got the price of plastering I'm like what??? And yes cooking is separate girl😊😊😊 I can't lol...the wall is costing more than the roof
@@TheBodleysJourney2Ghana You are so right when you said, "when things are misunderstood, most times that expense will be yours"...I can tell you personal stories that will cause your hair to fall off 🤪😝...as you said, folks need to be there on site.
Mom when the building is designed by a real architect, the building is supposed to be constructed completely as designed so the cost has to include everything the architect shows on the drawing unless the architect didn't do a good job. I'm an architect, and I know what I'm talking about. There's nothing like partial costing in building construction, and I'm a Ghanaian. It is very foreign to me as a Ghanaian to hear that plastering is not included in the construction of buildings. It has never been the case in Ghana construction as far as I know. My brothers have constructed several buildings in Ghana
Thank you for commenting! Perhaps it’s different for every contractor. But, it’s pretty known among many here in Ghana who are building a home, that plastering it has come as a separate cost.
Am shook that Ghana you are literally getting the shell and anything beyond that has different quotes? I have a question , quantity surveyors aren’t a thing out there for all costs of the build from foundation to roof? Oh my .
@@Uncle-Basil This is my concern in terms of Diaspora interests. I don't know if those rates are for people who come from the West only or also for those who are Native Ghanaians, but unless you are already well established (wealthy) when you return, how would you survive there without keeping one foot in the West in terms of making money... especially when job preferences are still offered to native born people?? Despite the stereotype, everyone in the West isn't wealthy and doesn't own prosperous businesses, but they may work regular, full-time jobs; so how ARE people actually preparing financially to survive long-term?? It's one thing to say you're done and ain't going back, but if the infrastructures there aren't set up in your/our favor either, then how long will it be before we wind up tapping back into the western well? I can't pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for a house in Ghana when my name isn't on it's citizenship rolls in an equitable, meaningful way. If I don't have the same access to the Ghanaian financial/employment infrastructure that a native born person does and my business prospects aren't yet well established, then how would I survive there?? I'm giving a theoretical here, because I've no personal plans to return at the moment; but if I did, the odds wouldn't be in my favor if I couldn't tap the job market there until my business took off. I guess it's my way of seeing how folks conceive of investment in context of assessing what percentage of the Ghanaians will be our clientele versus dependence on the scattered interests of wealthy Diasporans? So many questions... so much to learn.
@@fj2201Good questions, those rates also apply to Native Ghanaians. Personally, I would not move to Ghana to look for work, they expect us to create jobs...although some of us find teaching jobs there. Becoming a citizen in Ghana is not a problem as several folks from the Diaspora received citizenship recently. This is very important especially if you want to start you own business. You've made some good observations about surviving there, you need residual income or you need to start a business to make it. Opportunities abound as there are many open markets. Working remotely from the US, UK, etc. maybe an option for some and you don't have to be wealthy to pull it off as the exchange rate is favorable...but as with any country, you need to stick to a budget.
Those who are moving generally fall within these categories a). have investment and retirement income from the West b) are entrepreneurs with first hand experience already in the West c) digital nomads. Those are the only ways to hack it. As stated you have to come with the ability to create jobs in Ghana not look for employment here.
Great info! You made me laugh about what they think is nice vs what you think is nice. I’ve heard so many first hand stories about them doing what they want against your wishes, so you definitely need to be there often. The Ghana esthetic is not like the west so….🫤
This is a much needed conversation for many trying to move and own homes overseas. I have bought land , put up a perimeter wall. I have done my plans and had a quantity surveyor , structural engineer and architect give me the total cost with the current market value. A BOQ would be the document for itemized costs. I already did borehole analysis as well. If anything the thing left is me going to source the materials on my own , being available etc. it helps because am originally born in that country but lived overseas for awhile so am using my brother to help with procurement.
Government fees are also something I needed to include in my budget. Generator we purchased here and solar lights as well. We also had to think about the immersion pump for the borehole
Another thing to stress is creation of passive income. I can’t shout enough about it.
Another thing I would advice you about the compound is put a gate on it even if you use iron sheets for now. Keep unwanted people out as you construct.
Thanks for all the tips 😊
Thank you so much for sharing!!! I really appreciate it so much.
You are very on point and detailed. You gave all the helpful information. As a Ghanaian building in Ghana I know the experience and you are really helpful information for new people that are interested. I really recommend your Chanel. Good job
Thank you very much! We appreciate your support.
I think the RKE management should name the road infront your house "The Bodley's Road" as a reference and a sign of appreciation for you being the first people to start building in phase 3, you deserve that. Hope RKE is watching ...
You are a blessing. Thank you for sharing. 😅
Absolutely
Lisa this is valuable information. Thank you very much. There are so many things that need to be done and I really believe that it’s imperative to be on the site to get this done.
Yes, please be on site as much as possible
This has been very valuable. Thank you so much Lisa.
You’re welcome! I’m happy it’s helpful
I think another important consideration that Americans must come to grips with is fixtures and fittings. Everything will need to be imported in to Ghana unlike in the U.S. where you have the choice between locally manufactured and imports. Wonderfully the quality and variety is increasing in Ghana but one of my biggest frustration is that most imports still cater to a very narrow local aesthetic so my advice, if you have the time and money it is worth making a quick trip to Turkey and China to source all your fixtures and fittings there. Buying from wholesalers or retailers in China and Turkey will easily save you 70% off anything priced locally and you will have all the variety you want. Even with the shipping costs and duties included plus many vendors in Turkey and China will handle all the logistics, custom clearance et al for you at cost.
@@myrnajames1460why do you want to go to Turkey or China? Are you saying on a whole continent you cannot find fixtures and fittings. I am building in Ghana and everything is sourced locally. I am building a 7 bedroom house. Nothing will be imporef from Chiba or Turkey. Everything I need is in Ghana or neighboring countries. Support the local businesses that is how you create jobs
If you do a quick google search on how to source directly from China or Turkey you will see multiple links that will point you in the right direction
@@lilacer6841what u are buying in Ghana comes from turkey and China. Go and buy cheaper there and good quality
@@myrnajames1460 Hi there, I don’t have company names in Turkey and China. What said in the video that Chicago and Turkish security doors are here in Ghana
@@myrnajames1460 have u been to Africa 😭 if not respectfully visit before u think this way.
They price you the foundation and superstructure. Some will include roof and others won't. Everything else is seperate. Know if you want 220v or 120v or both (yes you can sepnup for both)
There needs to be a shared database of builders and vendors available to diaspora as a resource. Multiple quotes are needed. We have seen vast difference in every genre of building.
I agree
Hi Lisa it’s Tamesha. I was so excited about our move but now my spirit has been dampened 💔. Thank you for being so transparent, kind, uplifting, and always dropping gems 💎. There are so many people in diaspora who need guidance so they don’t end up in a bad deal 😢 or overpriced when buying land and building.
I’m so sorry my sister that your spirit has been broken! This makes me really sad. I pray that The Most High will restore your heart for the move . I believe HE is working it out for your good. Stay diligent in your efforts to recover what is rightfully yours. I’m praying for you and as discussed you will here from me in Sunday
@@TheBodleysJourney2Ghana Thank you ❤️❤️❤️❤️
An option is to use a company that gives you a fixed price for your build where they take care of everything...of course, you should still be on site if possible.
Fortunately, there are companies using rammed earth to build homes, which is affordable. I can build a simple, fully furnished two bedroom house for $65k including the land...
On the other hand, some will/can spend $130K-$200K for the same. Figure out what you want. CZcams is also a great research tool if you still plan to move to Ghana... Good Luck.
Sis breaking it down as you have allows for better preparations. I do agree to getting everything itemized. I know there will be surprises but I just prefer to have my ducks in a row in advance.
Exactly! Things will come up, but it helps if you can prepare financially as much as possible. I’m glad it’s helpful
Hello Lisa - This is a very helpful video and very appreciated. Thanks for the helpful information you provided to those still in the planning stage. One more thing to add to the list is air condition. They don’t do central air like most places in the USA, therefore you have to do one spilt unit per room.
Yeees!!! I completely forgot about that. Yes, budget for your air conditioning
This is very helpful information thank you ❤
I agree sis, thank you for all the information, because I can’t wait to leave Babylon! This is by faith with the most high!❤️🙏🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
Well for sure your eyes are open and you can be a valuable asset for others coming to Ghana, in essence you are paying American prices all around.
Betta be there and write up and record, watch corner cutting, remember we are all the melanin Africans but we are Not the same people. Or shall I say tribe. Different tribes people different cultures we tend to box all melanin in the same box. Africa is a continent. All Europeans are not Germany, you got polish etc same for Hispanics not all are Mexicans. We just have to be mindful and care about doing the right thing. Thanks Bodley’s for info if it was the other way around you all would appreciate the support. ❤
Thank you...this vid will come in handy in the future!
This is excellent information. In anything we must count the cost.
Yes, for those of us building out of pocket meaning not getting loans, the budget is very important. I’m glad this was helpful
Very valuable information
Thanks for sharing Lisa, we appreciate you ❤from Chicago
Greetings!!! Thank you for sharing truly a blessing. May God continue to strengthen you both and meet every need in Jesus the Christ name!!!
This is tanaysha from TX..
Wow this is sooo helpful… I can’t wait
Hi Tanaysha!!!! I’m so happy it was helpful. I’ll try to share anything I can
Thank you very much for the insights, so very helpful, lots I had no idea about.I am keeping thus video as a refrence ❤😊
Awesome! I’m so glad it was helpful
I wish I watched this video before I said yes to build my wall. I thought my quote included everything smh just today I got the price of plastering I'm like what??? And yes cooking is separate girl😊😊😊 I can't lol...the wall is costing more than the roof
There are builders out there that will give you a total price for your build that is fixed...in my opinion, it is less stressful this way.
Yes, I completely agree
@@TheBodleysJourney2Ghana You are so right when you said, "when things are misunderstood, most times that expense will be yours"...I can tell you personal stories that will cause your hair to fall off 🤪😝...as you said, folks need to be there on site.
Yes they will jack up things
Mom when the building is designed by a real architect, the building is supposed to be constructed completely as designed so the cost has to include everything the architect shows on the drawing unless the architect didn't do a good job. I'm an architect, and I know what I'm talking about. There's nothing like partial costing in building construction, and I'm a Ghanaian. It is very foreign to me as a Ghanaian to hear that plastering is not included in the construction of buildings. It has never been the case in Ghana construction as far as I know. My brothers have constructed several buildings in Ghana
Thank you for commenting! Perhaps it’s different for every contractor. But, it’s pretty known among many here in Ghana who are building a home, that plastering it has come as a separate cost.
Most people who have installed solar hot water panels always have complains at it though.
Am shook that Ghana you are literally getting the shell and anything beyond that has different quotes? I have a question , quantity surveyors aren’t a thing out there for all costs of the build from foundation to roof? Oh my .
How do you finance when you are not a citizen?
The interest rate is beyond crazy for financing in Ghana, I believe it is currently at 28.47%
@@Uncle-Basil This is my concern in terms of Diaspora interests. I don't know if those rates are for people who come from the West only or also for those who are Native Ghanaians, but unless you are already well established (wealthy) when you return, how would you survive there without keeping one foot in the West in terms of making money... especially when job preferences are still offered to native born people?? Despite the stereotype, everyone in the West isn't wealthy and doesn't own prosperous businesses, but they may work regular, full-time jobs; so how ARE people actually preparing financially to survive long-term?? It's one thing to say you're done and ain't going back, but if the infrastructures there aren't set up in your/our favor either, then how long will it be before we wind up tapping back into the western well? I can't pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for a house in Ghana when my name isn't on it's citizenship rolls in an equitable, meaningful way. If I don't have the same access to the Ghanaian financial/employment infrastructure that a native born person does and my business prospects aren't yet well established, then how would I survive there?? I'm giving a theoretical here, because I've no personal plans to return at the moment; but if I did, the odds wouldn't be in my favor if I couldn't tap the job market there until my business took off. I guess it's my way of seeing how folks conceive of investment in context of assessing what percentage of the Ghanaians will be our clientele versus dependence on the scattered interests of wealthy Diasporans? So many questions... so much to learn.
@@akwasiosei4361 Are you talking about Native Ghanaians as well or only those coming from other countries?
@@fj2201Good questions, those rates also apply to Native Ghanaians. Personally, I would not move to Ghana to look for work, they expect us to create jobs...although some of us find teaching jobs there. Becoming a citizen in Ghana is not a problem as several folks from the Diaspora received citizenship recently. This is very important especially if you want to start you own business.
You've made some good observations about surviving there, you need residual income or you need to start a business to make it. Opportunities abound as there are many open markets. Working remotely from the US, UK, etc. maybe an option for some and you don't have to be wealthy to pull it off as the exchange rate is favorable...but as with any country, you need to stick to a budget.
Those who are moving generally fall within these categories a). have investment and retirement income from the West b) are entrepreneurs with first hand experience already in the West c) digital nomads. Those are the only ways to hack it. As stated you have to come with the ability to create jobs in Ghana not look for employment here.
Great info! You made me laugh about what they think is nice vs what you think is nice. I’ve heard so many first hand stories about them doing what they want against your wishes, so you definitely need to be there often. The Ghana esthetic is not like the west so….🫤
Not at all!!