Buyer's Guide

Your step-by-step guide to buying property in Kenya with confidence.

Why Buy Property in Kenya?

Kenya's real estate market offers incredible opportunities — from affordable residential homes to high-return investment properties. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, understanding the process is key to making a smart purchase.

The Buying Process

Step 1

Define Your Budget

Assess your finances, explore mortgage options, and determine how much you can comfortably spend. Factor in additional costs like stamp duty (2-4%), legal fees, and valuation charges.

Step 2

Research & Shortlist

Browse properties on Jumuika, filter by location, price, and type. Save your favourites and compare options. Consider factors like proximity to amenities, infrastructure development, and future growth potential.

Step 3

Site Visits & Due Diligence

Visit shortlisted properties in person. Verify land ownership through an official search at the Ministry of Lands. Confirm the title deed is genuine, check for encumbrances, and ensure the property has necessary approvals.

Step 4

Make an Offer

Once satisfied, make a formal offer through your agent or directly to the seller. Negotiate the price and terms. A reservation fee (typically 10%) may be required to take the property off the market.

Step 5

Legal Process & Sale Agreement

Engage a qualified lawyer to draft or review the sale agreement. Both parties sign the agreement, and the buyer pays the agreed deposit (usually 10-30% of the purchase price).

Step 6

Complete Payment & Transfer

Pay the balance on the agreed completion date. Your lawyer facilitates the transfer of the title deed at the Lands Registry. Pay stamp duty and registration fees. Collect your new title deed — congratulations, you're a property owner!

Common Buyer Questions

Most sellers require a deposit of 10-30% of the purchase price. If you are using a mortgage, your lender will typically finance 80-90% of the property value, so you need at least 10-20% as a down payment plus additional costs for legal fees and stamp duty.
A typical property purchase in Kenya takes 30-90 days from offer acceptance to title transfer. This can vary depending on the complexity of the transaction, mortgage approval timelines, and the efficiency of the Lands Registry.
Stamp duty is a government tax on property transfers. It is 2% of the property value for properties within municipalities and 4% for properties in rural areas. It must be paid within 30 days of executing the transfer documents.
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Kenya. However, non-citizens can only hold leasehold interests (up to 99 years) and cannot own freehold land. It is advisable to work with a local lawyer experienced in cross-border property transactions.
While not legally mandatory, it is strongly recommended to engage a qualified lawyer. They will conduct due diligence, verify the title, draft the sale agreement, and handle the transfer process to protect your interests.

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