• Guide

Before buying land in Kenya from abroad, check these 5 things

Kabla ya kutuma pesa — thibitisha shamba, mmiliki, na taratibu

Buying from abroad is possible — but only when you can verify the land, the seller, and the process before you pay.

1. Confirm the land exists and matches the offer

Ask for location details you can independently verify: county, approximate GPS coordinates, access roads, and recent site photos or drone footage. A legitimate project should welcome scrutiny, not avoid it.

2. Understand tenure — freehold vs leasehold

Freehold and leasehold carry different rights and obligations. Confirm the tenure type in writing, how long a lease runs (if applicable), and whether renewals or approvals are required.

3. Verify seller identity and ownership

The person or company collecting money should match the owner on the title or an authorised representative with documented authority. Be cautious when payment requests come from third parties with no clear link to the property.

4. Demand structured payment records

Avoid deals that rely only on WhatsApp screenshots and verbal balances. You should receive receipts, clear allocation records, and a running balance you can download or review at any time.

5. Review the project structure, not just the plot price

Ask how quorum works, what the commitment amount represents, what happens if quorum is not reached, and how title processing is handled after payment. Transparency on process is as important as price per acre.

This guide is educational content only and does not constitute legal advice. Always review documents with a qualified Kenyan property advocate.