Introduction
Buying property in Kenya can be exciting, whether you’re an expat settling into a new life, a diaspora family returning home, or an investor seeking opportunities. But the process is not without risks. Unscrupulous sellers, incomplete approvals, and hidden charges can make property ownership stressful and costly. That’s why due diligence is essential.
This guide gives you a simple but powerful checklist of what to verify before committing to any property purchase in Kenya.
1. Land & Title Verification
- Confirm land ownership at the Ministry of Lands.
- Ensure the seller or developer is the registered owner.
- Check that the land is free from encumbrances like mortgages or disputes.
- Verify that the land is properly zoned (residential vs. commercial).
2. Approvals & Licenses
- County Government Approvals: Layout plan, building permits.
- NEMA Approvals: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) license.
- Utility Approvals: Power supply (Kenya Power/EPRA), water, and sewerage.
3. Legal & Compliance
- Ensure the sale agreement follows the Law Society of Kenya’s standard conditions.
- If buying in a gated estate, confirm compliance with the Sectional Properties Act.
- Check if there’s a legally registered Estate Management Company.
- Review if there are ongoing disputes involving the property or developer.
4. Environmental & Community Concerns
- Investigate nearby developments — e.g., petrol stations, factories, or quarries.
- Confirm environmental compliance and public participation were done.
- Ensure proper waste management and drainage systems exist.
5. Pricing & Costs
- Compare the asking price with similar properties in the area.
- Request a cost breakdown: purchase price, service charges, utility connection fees.
- Understand refund/exit terms if the deal doesn’t go through.
6. Estate Management & Amenities
- Review the estate’s management by-laws.
- Confirm the availability of promised amenities: roads, schools, shops, recreation areas.
- Inspect existing infrastructure (security, water supply, sewerage).
Conclusion
Buying a home in Kenya requires caution — but with the right due diligence, you can protect yourself from costly mistakes. Always verify documents, consult with a real estate lawyer, and speak with current residents where possible.
At ORKA Strategic Alliance Ltd™, we help clients connect with vetted real estate partners so their relocation journey is secure, stress-free, and rewarding.