If you’re a Kenyan living abroad or someone looking for opportunities back home, I understand. Buying property in Kenya can feel like a significant step.
You’ve built a life overseas, perhaps in the US, UK, or elsewhere, and now you’re considering securing something stable for your family, retirement, or investment.
As someone who has helped individuals like you navigate this process for years at Chepchieng and Company Advocates, here is the most effective and secure way to do it: purchasing property in Kenya through a local Kenyan company.
The process of buying property in Kenya is straightforward, protects your interests, and lets you build wealth without the headaches. Let’s break it down step by step for you.
Why Buying Property in Kenya Makes Sense Right Now
Kenya’s real estate market is experiencing rapid growth. According to recent reports from HassConsult, residential property prices in Kenya have increased by 425% since 2000.
This is far ahead of places like the US, at 201%, or France, at 151%. And in the year to June 2025, prices rose by 7.8%, the highest among nine global markets studied.
That’s real money growing for you.
The market’s value is expected to reach approximately US$773 billion by the end of 2025, driven by urbanization and the need for homes among a young population.
For diaspora like you, remittances exceed KES 600 billion annually, and many are channeling that into properties in Kenya to purchase.
It’s not just numbers; it’s about coming home to something that’s yours, or watching your investment pay off through rentals that yield 5.5% on average, which is above global norms.
However, here’s the catch: as a non-resident, direct ownership has its limitations. That’s where buying property in Kenya through a Kenyan company shines.
It sidesteps those issues while maintaining security. At Chepchieng and Company Advocates, we’ve seen clients turn this into family legacies.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Kenya?
The short answer is yes, but with some rules. Under Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, non-citizens, including diaspora individuals who hold foreign passports, can own property, but mostly on leasehold terms of up to 99 years.
Freehold (full ownership for the duration) is primarily available to Kenyan citizens.
For urban spots like apartments or commercial buildings, it’s easier. Foreigners can fully own sectional properties, such as units in a condominium.
But for land, mainly agricultural, it’s trickier. You can’t own it outright without special approval from the president.
That’s why buying property in Kenya through a Kenyan company is a go-to move. It allows you to hold freehold land as the company, not personally.
In 2025, the sector’s growth is fueled by folks like you seeking stable returns amid global uncertainty.
We’ve guided many at our firm through this process, ensuring that every step complies with the Lands Act 2012 and the Land Registration Act 2012. It’s not complicated once you know the path.
Can Foreigners Buy Land in Kenya?
Now, zooming in on land, buying land in Kenya is a dream for many diaspora, whether for farming, building, or flipping.
But again, rules apply. Foreigners can’t directly own freehold agricultural land. The Land Control Act bars it to protect local farming.
For non-agricultural land, such as in cities, leasehold is a suitable option, but it typically renews every 99 years.
The safest workaround? Buying property in Kenya or acquiring land through a Kenyan company. Register a local limited company (with you as the majority shareholder), and it can own freehold land outright.
No lease limits. This is huge for diaspora investors eyeing properties in Kenya to buy for long-term hold.
In 2025, land prices in satellite towns such as Kitengela rose by 13.1% and Ngong by 14.2%, according to Business Daily Africa.
That’s prime time for buying land in Kenya. However, without proper setup, you risk disputes or fake titles, which are common pitfalls.
At Chepchieng and Company Advocates, we handle company formation and land searches to ensure a clean process. Consider us your on-the-ground partner, ensuring your investment stays on track.
How Much Does Buying Property in Kenya Cost?
Let’s be honest about costs: Property prices in Kenya vary by location and type, but 2025 data indicate that they remain accessible compared to global markets.
Overall, house prices in Kenya decreased by 14.28% year-over-year in late 2024, according to the Kenya Bankers Association, creating opportunities for buyers now.
In Nairobi, the average house for sale is KSh 108 million, which is considered a high-end price.
More realistically, a 3-bedroom home in the suburbs averages KSh 16.7 million, down 5.2% from last year (Rentberry data).
- Buying property in Nairobi? Expect KSh 4-10 million for a 1-bedroom apartment in areas like Kilimani.
- Head to Nakuru for value; homes start at KSh 10 million, with three bedrooms priced between 10-20 million. Buying a house in Nakuru is a smart move for diaspora individuals seeking space near the lake.
- Buying property in Mombasa, Kenya, with beachfront options starting at KSh 20-50 million, while inland options range from KSh 3-8 million for apartments.
For land, buying a plot in Kenya’s Kitengela area typically costs KSh 5-12 million. Across Kenya, Numbeo pegs city-center apartments at KSh 80,000 per square meter. Factor in 4% stamp duty, 1.5% legal fees, and you’re looking at 6-7% extra on purchase.
These prices make buying properties in Kenya more appealing, with an annual increase of 7.8%, according to HassConsult.
However, to budget correctly, consult with professionals like us at Chepchieng and Company Advocates. We crunch numbers tailored to your goals.
The Process of Buying Property in Kenya Through a Kenyan Company
Why is buying property in Kenya using a company safest for the diaspora? It protects against ownership limits, currency risks, and legal snags.
As a foreigner, your company owns the asset, but you control it as a director/shareholder: there is no 99-year cap, easier financing, and tax perks, such as deducting expenses.
Step 1: Forming Your Kenyan Company
Start by registering a private limited company at the Business Registration Service (BRS).
The cost is approximately KSh 30,000 to KSh 50,000, and the process takes 1-2 weeks.
You need at least one Kenyan director (can be a trusted local or us), but you hold shares. Name it something simple, like “YourName Holdings Ltd.”
This company then buys the property. For the diaspora, we handle it remotely via a Power of Attorney.
At Chepchieng and Company Advocates, we file everything, ensuring it’s 100% yours behind the scenes.
Step 2: Due Diligence Before Buying
Don’t skip this; verify the title at the Lands Registry. Check for liens, disputes, or fake deeds.
For buying property in Kenya, we do official searches (KSh 1000-3,000). For physical inspection, we send photos/videos or a rep.
In high-demand spots like Nairobi, 20% of deals hit snags without this (our experience). Properties in Kenya for sale must be legitimate, zoned correctly, and have no encroachments.
Step 3: Buying property in Kenya
Your company signs the sale agreement and pays via bank transfer (use SWIFT for diaspora transactions).
A 10% deposit is required, with the balance due upon completion of the project. Transfer title to the company, including stamps and registers, within 1-3 months.
Buying a house in Kenya using this process is a seamless experience. We’ve closed deals for clients in the US buying a home in Nairobi remotely.
Step 4: Post-Purchase Management
If you own property, consider renting it out for yields of up to 12% in commercial areas. Or hold for appreciation, the Nairobi suburbs up 4-5% quarterly.
As a diaspora, consider appointing a manager; we can help you connect. The company pays a 30% corporate tax, but deducts the cost of repairs as an expense.
If you sell later, Capital gains are taxed at 15%. Brilliant structuring saves big. This method is why diaspora remittances into real estate hit record highs in 2025, safe and scalable.
Hot Spots for Buying Property in Kenya
Buying Property in Nairobi: Urban Buzz
Nairobi’s the hub, accounting for 80% of Kenya’s real estate activity. Buying property in Nairobi? Suburbs like Ruiru offer 3-beds at KSh 6-15 million, up 2.9% in Q1 2025.
Great for rentals near Thika Road upgrades. Buying a house in Nairobi averages KSh 31.5 million, but deals abound post-dip.
Buying a House in Nakuru: Affordable Growth
Nakuru’s rising, buying a house in Nakuru starts at KSh 10 million. Lake views, lower costs (rent $200/month downtown), and a 4.4% urbanization rate. Ideal for family plots.
Buying Property on the Kenyan Coast: Beach Vibes
For relaxation, purchasing a property in Mombasa, Kenya, or on the coast, such as one in Diani, is a good option. For instance, Nyali apartments, priced at KSh 20 million, yield a return from tourists.
Buying property in Kenya, especially on the coast? Prices have increased by 20% since 2011, but they are still considered bargains compared to those on global beaches.
Satellite Towns
Ruiru, Kitengela, land up 13%. Buying a house in Kenya here? KSh 5-12 million, near Nairobi, but half price.
Benefits and Risks of Buying Property in Kenya
Benefits of buying property in Kenya using a company:
High returns (13.28% combined yield/appreciation, HassConsult). Diversify from stocks, family security. Trends like green homes (solar-integrated) boost value, Mi Vida notes, as demand surges.
Risks
Currency fluctuations (USD to KSh). Delays in titles. Market dips (1.1% Q3 2024). Mitigate risks with the company’s structure and advantages.
FAQs:
Can a foreign national own property in Kenya through a local company?
Yes. When buying property in Kenya through a Kenyan-registered private limited company, the company owns the property, not you personally. A Kenyan company is treated as a local entity, allowing it to hold a freehold title even on land that foreigners cannot own directly.
Is buying property in Kenya through a company the safest way for diaspora Kenyans?
Yes, it is widely considered the safest and most common method. It removes the 99-year lease restriction, protects you from changes in foreign-ownership laws, makes bank financing easier, and shields your personal assets.
How long does it take to set up a Kenyan company for buying property in Kenya?
Typically, 7–14 days if all documents are complete and ready. At Chepchieng and Company Advocates, we can complete the registration and have your company ready to buy within two weeks.
Do I need to travel if I am planning on buying property in Kenya through a company?
No. Everything can be done remotely with a Power of Attorney. We handle company formation, due diligence, signing, and registration on your behalf.
Can the company own agricultural land?
Yes. Once a property is owned by a Kenyan company (even if 100% foreign-owned), it can hold freehold agricultural land without requiring a presidential exemption.
What are the costs associated with setting up the company and Buying property in Kenya in this manner?
– Company registration: KSh 35,000–60,000
– Legal fees for purchase & transfer: 1–2% of property value
– Stamp duty: 4% (urban) or 2% (rural)
– Valuation & search fees: KSh 20,000–50,000
Total extra cost is usually 6–8% above the purchase price.
Can I add my spouse or children as shareholders?
Absolutely. You can own 99% and give 1% to family members, or split shares however you want. It’s a great way to plan inheritance.
What happens if I want to sell the property later?
The company sells the property (or you sell the company shares). Capital gains tax is 15% (final tax from 2023), and the process is straightforward.
Is buying a house in Nairobi or purchasing a home in Nakuru different when using a company?
No difference in the process. Whether you are buying property in Nairobi, a house in Nakuru, land in Kenya, or property in Mombasa, Kenya, the company structure remains the same everywhere.
Do banks give mortgages to a company owned by a diaspora Kenyan?
Yes. Local banks, such as KCB, Equity, Absa, and Stanbic, regularly offer mortgages (with financing up to 70–80%) to Kenyan companies, even when shareholders reside abroad.
Will I pay higher taxes if the property is in a company?
Rental income is taxed at a 30% corporate rate, but you can deduct all expenses (repairs, management fees, interest). Many clients end up paying less tax than if they owned it personally.
Who can I trust to handle everything while I’m abroad?
Reach out to Chepchieng and Company Advocates. We have helped hundreds of diaspora clients establish companies and complete transactions safely and remotely. Contact us at your convenience for a complimentary initial consultation.
Final Thoughts
This is your guide to moving to Kenya and buying property in Kenya. Start with a consultation. At Chepchieng and Company Advocates, we specialize in diaspora deals, including company setup, due diligence, and closings.
We have the experience (as cited in local reports, our team has handled over 500 transactions), expertise in 2025 laws, and authority gained from years of experience in Eldoret/Nairobi.
Please email us at info@chepchiengadvocates.co.ke or call +25418724409. Let’s make buying property in Kenya your smart move. What’s your first question?
