Stanbic Bank Ghana has called on real estate developers across Africa to strengthen project preparation and documentation to improve their chances of securing financing for property developments.
Speaking at the Africa Real Estate Festival, the Head of Investment Banking at Stanbic Bank Ghana, Kobby Bentsi-Enchill, said developers must go beyond innovative ideas and focus on building well-structured and bankable projects.
According to him, proper preparation remains one of the key factors financial institutions consider before approving funding requests.
“When a developer walks through our doors with a project, the quality of the idea matters, but it is rarely the deciding factor,” he said.
“What separates a fundable project from one that stalls at the assessment stage is preparation.”
Mr Bentsi-Enchill explained that complete documentation, credible financial projections, clear land title and a well-defined exit strategy help build confidence among lenders.
He noted that although many developers are eager to access financing, several proposals fail because of avoidable weaknesses in project presentation and structuring rather than poor market demand.
“The real estate sector across Africa holds enormous potential, and we genuinely want to support its growth,” he stated.
“But a bank’s obligation is to its depositors and shareholders as much as it is to its borrowers.”
He added that due diligence processes should not be seen as obstacles but rather as safeguards to ensure projects are viable and sustainable.
The Stanbic executive further advised developers to engage experienced consultants and advisers early in the project lifecycle to improve the bankability of their proposals.
According to him, technical and financial experts play a critical role in helping developers meet lender expectations.
“The developers who consistently secure financing are the ones who surround themselves with the right expertise,” he said.
“A seasoned quantity surveyor, a competent legal team, a financial adviser who understands bankability; these are not luxuries.”
Mr Bentsi-Enchill also reaffirmed Stanbic Bank Ghana’s commitment to supporting the real estate and construction sector, describing the industry as vital to Ghana’s economic development.
He said the bank remains committed to supporting sustainable and well-structured projects through direct financing and strategic partnerships with developers and investors.
“Real estate development, done well, creates jobs, generates tax revenue, and addresses some of the most pressing infrastructure needs our country faces,” he noted.
“Stanbic Bank is committed to being a dependable partner in that process for developers who are serious about building sustainably and building right.”
