Investing in an unfurnished house in Turkana presents a unique proposition within the Kenyan real estate landscape. This vast and sun-drenched county offers properties that are essentially blank slates, allowing you, the buyer, to imprint your own style and functional needs without the cost of removing existing furnishings. The options typically range from completed but empty structural shells to more basic units where you can bring your own furniture and fittings. This is ideal for those who have specific design ideas, wish to source materials locally, or need to tailor a home to the extreme climatic conditions of northern Kenya.
Choosing an unfurnished property in this region provides distinct benefits. Firstly, the initial purchase price is often significantly lower than that of a turn-key, furnished property. This frees up capital for high-quality, climate-appropriate finishes like cooling stone floors, shaded verandas, and water-efficient fixtures. Secondly, it allows for customization that respects and incorporates local culture and building styles. You can work with local artisans to create a home that is not only personally satisfying but also contextually appropriate and potentially more durable in the harsh environment.
The market for unfurnished houses in Turkana is primarily driven by long-term investors, NGO workers on extended contracts, and local residents looking to upgrade from traditional manyattas to more permanent dwellings. As of 2025, price ranges are among the most competitive in Kenya, though they vary greatly depending on the size of the plot, construction quality (e.g., stone vs. brick), and access to vital amenities like water and reliable electricity. Prices for a decent empty unit typically start from Ksh 1.2 million for a simple two-bedroom bungalow and can go up to Ksh 8 million for a larger, more solidly built compound home in a prime location like Lodwar.
| Area | Property Type Focus | Average Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Lodwar Town | Empty concrete units, newer developments | Ksh 1.5M - Ksh 8M |
| Kakuma | Simpler shell houses, investor compounds | Ksh 1.2M - Ksh 5M |
| Lokichar | Basic unfinished structures, land with partial builds | Ksh 0.9M - Ksh 4M |
| Kerio Delta | Larger plots with potential for custom builds | Ksh 2M - Ksh 7M |