Kenyans living abroad are increasingly investing back home—especially in real estate. With attractive land prices, growing urban centres, and a deep emotional connection to Kenya, it makes perfect sense. But buying property while you’re thousands of miles away isn’t without risk. If you’re not careful, you might lose your money or end up owning nothing more than a plot on paper. Whether you’re in the US, UK, UAE, or Australia, buying property in Kenya from abroad can be smooth—if you avoid the most common pitfalls. In this article, we walk you through 5 mistakes to avoid and show you how to protect your investment.
Mistake #1: Failing to Verify Property Ownership
How to Conduct a Land Search in Kenya
The first rule of real estate: Verify before you buy. Many diaspora investors have been duped into purchasing land or homes from sellers who had no right to sell in the first place.
To verify ownership:
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Visit or have a representative visit the Ministry of Lands. Use Ardhisasa Portal
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Conduct a land search using the property’s title number.
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Cross-check details such as owner name, size of land, and encumbrances.
This can be done online via the ArdhiSasa platform (for properties in Nairobi and some counties), or physically through land registries across Kenya.
Common Ownership Scams to Watch Out For
Some red flags to be cautious of:
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Sellers who won’t show you a title deed.
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Land that’s “still being processed” or “belongs to a cooperative.”
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Multiple people claiming ownership of the same parcel.
Remember: if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Due Diligence on the Seller or Developer
Vetting the Seller or Agent
Before you send any money:
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Ask for ID and KRA PIN from the seller.
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Check if the developer is registered and licensed.
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Request references from past clients or projects.
Use the eCitizen Business Search or ask a trusted Kenyan to help you verify the legitimacy of the seller. Sometimes we never ask the person that connected us what they stand to gain and provide their details. I prefer you pay an extra cash but get the right deal.
Red Flags of Dubious Property Agents
Avoid agents or sellers who:
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Rush you into signing documents or sending money.
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Promise unrealistic returns.
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Can’t provide physical location or company registration documents.
Doing background checks may seem tedious—but it could save you millions.
Mistake #3: Not Engaging a Reputable Lawyer
The Role of a Property Lawyer in Kenya
A competent property lawyer will:
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Review and draft sale agreements.
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Conduct due diligence on the title.
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Ensure the transfer of property is done legally.
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Represent your interests in case of disputes.
Hiring a lawyer might seem like an extra expense—but it’s your first line of defense.
Costs and How to Find a Trustworthy Advocate
Before we used to fear lawyers as expensive and untrusted among other reasons. Sometimes the land owner will say that I think we can do it and ‘trust’ each other. Sometimes we don’t want to offend others hence we flow with such suggestions. Please this is your hard earned cash. Pay for a lawyer and many things will align. Expect to pay around 1.5%–2% of the property value as legal fees.
To find a reliable lawyer:
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Use the Law Society of Kenya’s portal.
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Ask family or friends in Kenya for referrals.
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Avoid lawyers introduced by sellers without independent verification.
Mistake #4: Skipping Site Visits or Delegated Inspections
How to Arrange a Virtual or Third-Party Site Visit
There’s something about site visit. You can see a lot. The peace within is critical on purchase of land. If you have a slightest doubt from the site visit, stop the process and address it first. Personally, I do not like purchase in an area that is full of graves(yeah people die but some are young graves are critical), no clear roads and even room for expanding. Access to the property matters as well is critical when buying property in Kenya from abroad. I normally branch away and just ask the neighbors on the property I want to buy.
If you can’t fly to Kenya:
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Ask a trusted relative or friend to visit the site on your behalf.
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Many real estate firms now offer virtual tours via video call.
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Insist on GPS coordinates and Google Maps location.
- That’s where Zao construction comes it to help in site visits
What to Look for During Property Inspections
During inspections:
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Confirm landmarks and access roads.
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Check for visible beacons or boundaries.
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Ask neighbors about the property’s history.
Even better: use a licensed surveyor to validate land boundaries.
Mistake #5: Overlooking Legal & Tax Obligations for Diaspora Investors
Understanding Stamp Duty and Capital Gains Tax
All land transactions in Kenya attract:
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Stamp Duty: Usually 4% (urban) or 2% (rural) of the purchase price.
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Capital Gains Tax (CGT): 15% on profit from selling property.
Failure to pay these taxes can invalidate your ownership or attract penalties.
Complying with the Foreign Investment Laws in Kenya
Diaspora investors:
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Can buy land, but non-citizens cannot own freehold land.
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Must ensure all payments are properly documented.
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Should remit money via formal channels like bank transfers for audit trails.
Work with experts who understand diaspora real estate laws.
Pro Tips for a Safe and Profitable Real Estate Investment
How to Finance Property in Kenya from Abroad
You can finance property through:
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Diaspora mortgage products from banks like Equity Bank, I&M Bank, or KCB.
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SACCOs and investment groups (chamas).
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Joint ventures with family or trusted partners in Kenya.
Always insist on signed agreements and receipts for every transaction.
Working with Trusted Real Estate Companies like Zao Construction
Companies like Zao Construction have diaspora-friendly services, including:
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Plot purchase in secure gated communities.
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Custom-built homes from blueprint to finish.
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Transparent processes and timely updates.
You can plan a meeting with us to guide you on property purchase and development
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I buy property in Kenya while living abroad?
Yes, Kenyan citizens in the diaspora can purchase and own land or houses in Kenya, including freehold and leasehold property.
2. Is it safe to buy land in Kenya remotely?
Yes, if you work with reputable lawyers, verified sellers, and conduct all due diligence steps—including a title search and site inspection.
3. How can I pay for property in Kenya from overseas?
yes you can if buying property in Kenya from abroad Use secure channels like bank transfers, diaspora banking services, or money remittance platforms that issue transaction receipts.
4. What documents do I need to buy property in Kenya?
You’ll need a valid ID or passport, KRA PIN, sale agreement, title deed copy, and proof of payment. A lawyer can help compile and verify these.
5. Can I own land in Kenya if I’m a dual citizen?
Yes, dual citizens can own land in Kenya, but you should register your Kenyan citizenship with immigration services for clarity.
6. How long does it take to transfer land ownership?
It typically takes 30–90 days, depending on due diligence, search results, and how quickly taxes and legal processes are handled.
Conclusion: Secure Your Investment the Right Way
Buying property in Kenya from abroad is a life-changing investment—but only if done correctly. The mistakes highlighted in this article are common but avoidable. Do your research, engage professionals, verify every detail, and don’t be rushed into a deal.
With the right partners, like Zao Construction or licensed legal experts, you can build your dream home or secure land that appreciates in value over time.