A:With the exodus of Liberians returning home, the need for shelter is paramount on everyone’s list, thus increasing the demand for land acquisition. Using basic economics, with a limited supply and an increase in demand, prices will increase. However, the cost of a parcel of land also depends on its size and location; the closer the land is to the capital, Monrovia and its suburbs, the more expensive it is. As of the date of this article, the price of land in Liberia is at a sharp upturn and varies widely. Mamba point remains the priciest location in Liberia with a vacant lot (approximately 11,000 square feet) selling for $20,000 to $30,000; lots with buildings are substantially higher. Lots in central Monrovia (Broad, Randall, etc) are selling at prices in excess of $15,000. Sinkor, a desirable residential area, has lots priced over $10,000. Airfield, Old Road, Congo Town, and Paynesville lots are priced at between $2,000 and $10,000. Brewerville, ELWA Road, and Gardnersville remain the most affordable area near Monrovia with lot prices costing only a few hundred dollars. Property values are projected to increase substantially if the political climate improves and Liberian stabilizes after the October 2005 elections.

Q: What does the land buying process entail?

A: The land buying process starts when you have found a plot of land that interests you. After this, the owner of the property is contacted to begin the sale. The sale is final after the following four steps are completed.

1. The deed is taken to the Ministry of Lands, Mines & Energy for review before a survey is conducted.
2. Three days prior to the survey, an ad is placed in the local newspaper and announced on the radio giving notice to interested parties and surrounding property owners to be available during the survey.
3. After the survey is conducted, a transfer deed is presented to the new owner by the previous owner including all necessary information about the property.
4. The deed is then probated in the court giving possession to the new owner.