American Homebuilders of West Africa
You have to have a different mindset and vision to tackle the housing market in West Africa. It has a housing market that doesn't have the built-in mechanisms of the developed nations. There is a need for affordable, quality housing for both the locals and the diaspora community abroad. Former peace corps volunteers took on the complex challenges and saw the opportunities to develop a model that fits both markets.
Recognizing this problem requires innovative thinking and foresight
The "housing deficit" in West Africa is not just a shortage of homes. The lack of infrastructure, financing, knowledge, and jobs have all contributed to this problem. Despite these obstacles, they believed that finding customized solutions enables 'social good.'
Their underlying approach is to create an environment that is favorable to all stakeholders. They wanted to make the purchasing process simpler and more accessible for the buyers, provide a good return for the creditors, and create employment. They took lessons learned from the U.S. credit guarantee programs, a method to encourage borrowing money with less risk to the lenders, and a way to stimulate the economy.
An overarching belief to improve lives and livelihoods and help others to help themselves is central to their business. By training locals and skill-building, the partnership between the local and overseas market has multiple beneficial outcomes for all.
The African market has plenty of obstacles, challenges, and risks; it requires new ideas, a realistic outlook, and the willingness to take a chance for the greater reward.