Frequently Asked Questions In Real Estate In Kenya
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Property in Nairobi
Buyers are heavily using the Ardhisasa platform for searches to ensure the title is not forged and the seller is legitimate. If you need the help of a lawyer/advocate in Nairobi, Contact us
Yes, but only with reputable developers, verified approvals (NCA, County), and payments made into project-specific accounts, rather than personal accounts. Local Professional realtors/agents help you to vet genuine off-plan projects
Buyers frequently ask to differentiate between freehold (permanent ownership) and leasehold (usually 99 years) mainly. It is good to understand more about Title Deeds and Property Ownership Document in Kenya
Beyond the purchase price, buyers must budget for stamp duty (4% in urban areas), legal fees (1–2%), valuation fees, and developer service charges. All other costs of owing property in Kenya are summarized HERE
Yes, anyone can purchase property in Kenya, though non-citizens are restricted to leasehold land, often requiring an Alien Landholding License.
Kenyan Real Estate Developers generally require a deposit of 10% to 30% of the property value.
Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Property in Nairobi
Rent varies heavily by location and unit type.
- Bedsitters: KES 12,000–20,000 (often higher for modern units in areas like Ruaka/Roysambu).
- 1 Bedroom: KES 20,000–45,000 (Higher in prime areas like Kilimani: KES 45,000–70,000).
- 2 Bedroom: KES 45,000–80,000 (Prime areas like Lavington: KES 90,000–150,000+).
- Affordable Units: Outside the CBD, areas like Ruai, Mlolongo, and Ongata Rongai offer one-bedroom units for KES 10,000–20,000.
Answer: Usually, YES. In most modern Nairobi apartments, the service charge is billed together with rent and covers security, cleaning, garbage collection, and lift maintenance.
- Cost: Service charges can range from KES 2,000 to over KES 25,000 per month depending on the amenities.
Answer: The standard in Kenya is a security deposit equal to 1–2 months’ rent, plus the first month’s rent paid upfront.
- Important: Verify if the deposit is refundable, as some agents or landlords deduct “cleaning fees” or “repair costs” before returning it
Answer: Landlords typically increase rent by 5–10% annually.
- Legal Standing: Rent cannot be increased mid-lease, and 30 days’ written notice is the standard practice, although longer notice periods are common in managed agreements
- Parking Fees: KES 1,000–5,000 per month for a parking slot in some gated estate apartments.
- Water/Electricity: Some older buildings share a water bill equally, which can be high. Ensure the unit has independent, prepaid (token) meters.
- Internet/Generator: Exclusive deals with specific providers or a generator fee
Answer: According to tenant rights in Kenya, the landlord must keep the property habitable, including structural repairs, electricity, and plumbing.
- Action: Minor maintenance (like light bulbs) is usually for the tenant, but repairs for normal wear and tear should be handled by the landlord. Always have a written lease that specifies this
Answer: Never pay a deposit before visiting the property in person.
- Pro Tip: Work with licensed agents or companies, and verify property ownership before making payments
Kilimani is preferred by young professionals, Kileleshwa is serene for families, Lavington is for Executives and Business Heads, Westlands is for Expatriates mainly, while Ruaka is popular for modern, slightly cheaper apartments on the outskirts
Answer: Financial planners recommend that your rent should not exceed 30%–40% of your monthly income. Given the high cost of living in Nairobi, sticking to this helps ensure you can cover service charges, utilities, and transportation.