Simple Process

How DiasporaBuild Works

A simple five-step process designed for transparency, security, and peace of mind when managing construction projects from abroad.

I am a...

Client

Build or renovate remotely, in full confidence.

  1. 01

    Create your project

    Define scope, budget, timeline. Upload plans, photos, cost breakdowns.

  2. 02

    Find or invite your expert

    Browse our vetted network or invite your own contractor through a secure link.

  3. 03

    Compare & sign

    Receive itemized quotes per milestone, compare, negotiate, sign digitally.

  4. 04

    Track in real time

    Photos, videos, independent inspection reports and secure chat thread.

  5. 05

    Pay per validated milestone

    Funds held in escrow, released after inspection + your approval.

Learn more

Ready to Start Your Project?

Join hundreds of diaspora families building with confidence.

Guide & data

How it works — from registration to key handover

DiasporaBuild process — frequently asked questions

How long between registration and site launch?
On average 4 to 8 weeks: 1 week to complete the brief, 2 to receive proposals, 1 to choose, 2 to sign and file the permit, 1 to 2 before actual start.
How many payment milestones does a typical build have?
6 to 9 milestones for a villa: foundation, ground-floor structure, intermediate slab, upper-floor structure, frame/roof, plumbing second fix, electrical second fix, finishes, key handover.
Can I change contractor mid-build?
Yes — a reassignment procedure assisted by our team. Unreleased funds remain yours; a new contractor takes over from the last validated milestone.
Is an architect mandatory?
Yes for any project > 100 m² (Cameroonian, Ivorian, Senegalese law, etc.). DiasporaBuild automatically checks that your project has an Order-registered architect before validation.
How do I receive the weekly photos?
Directly in the mobile app or by email depending on your preferences. You can also receive them on WhatsApp via our Superchat integration.
What if I want to visit the site myself?
Nothing stops you — the process doesn't require your absence. The platform is designed to amplify your oversight, not exclude you. Every physical visit strengthens the relationship with the local team.

Typical timeline for a 180 m² villa in Yaoundé or Dakar

StageDuration% of total budget
Secured plot + soil study3 – 6 wks25 – 35%
Building permit + preliminary designs6 – 12 wks5 – 8%
Foundations + base4 – 6 wks12 – 15%
Ground floor + slab + upper floor structure10 – 14 wks22 – 26%
Frame + roof + joinery6 – 8 wks15 – 18%
Second fix + finishes10 – 12 wks20 – 22%

Going further

The DiasporaBuild process is designed to be understandable by a client who has never built and industrially reliable for an architect who has delivered fifty projects. At each step, a clear deliverable (preliminary plans, building permit, concrete-pour reports, site photos, material invoices) is archived in your project space. You permanently see progress as a percentage, budget consumed versus planned, and AI alerts when an anomaly is detected. At the end of the build, a complete digital file (as-built plans, compliance reports, invoices, warranties) is handed to you — it becomes your 'operating licence' to resell later, rent out, or obtain home insurance on the best terms.