If you’re considering buying a house in Kenya, you’re in the right place. This is a big decision, and we want to ensure you have all the information you need to make it a smooth process.
This blog post will cover everything from buying houses for sale in Kenya to the costs involved, if its better to build a house in Kenya, or buy an already finished one, whether foreigners can buy property, and how to get a mortgage.
We’ll also discuss specifics like buying a house in Nairobi or Mombasa, Kenya. By the end, you’ll feel confident about your next steps. Let’s get started with the basics.
Why Consider Houses for Sale in Kenya?
Kenya is a vibrant country with a growing real estate market. Whether you’re looking for houses for sale in Kenya, houses for sale in Nakuru, Nairobi, Mombasa, or smaller towns, there’s something for everyone.
The country’s economy is expanding, and cities like Nairobi and Mombasa are becoming hubs for business and tourism. This makes houses in Kenya attractive for both living and investment.
But buying a house in Kenya isn’t just about finding a nice place to live. It’s about understanding the legal process, the costs, and what’s possible for you as a buyer. That’s where we come in.
At Chepchieng and Company Advocates, we specialize in helping people navigate the legal side of buying a house in Kenya.
From checking property titles to drafting agreements, we help you with the entire legal process, but more about this later.
Let’s break down the key things you need to know about houses for sale in Kenya.
The Basics of buying houses for sale in Kenya
If you’re wondering how to access houses for sale in Kenya, the process is straightforward but requires careful steps. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:
1. Decide Your Budget
Before looking at houses for sale in Kenya, know how much you can spend. This includes the cost of the house, legal fees, and taxes. We’ll talk more about costs later.
2. Find a Property
Look for houses for sale in Kenya that match your needs. You can check online platforms, work with real estate agents, or visit areas like Nairobi or Mombasa to see what’s available.
3. Verify the Property
This is where things can get tricky. You must ensure the house has a clean title and no legal issues. Our team at Chepchieng and Company Advocates can help you do a title search to confirm that the seller legally owns the property.
4. Negotiate and Sign an Agreement
Once you find a house, negotiate the price with the seller. Then, sign a sale agreement. This is a legal document, and we recommend having a lawyer from Chepchieng and Company Advocates review it to protect your interests.
5. Pay and Transfer Ownership
After signing, you’ll pay the agreed amount (or part of it if you’re using a mortgage). The property will then be transferred to your name through a legal process.
6. Register the Property
The final step is registering the house in your name at the land registry. This makes you the official owner.
This process applies whether you buy a house in Nairobi, Kenya, or Mombasa, Kenya. The key is to work with professionals to avoid mistakes.
That’s why Chepchieng and Company Advocates is here to guide you every step of the way.
Can a Foreigner Buy a House in Kenya?
We often hear, “Can a foreigner buy a house in Kenya?” The answer is yes, but there are some rules to know.
Foreigners can buy houses for sale in Kenya but only own property under a leasehold title for up to 99 years.
This means you don’t own the land forever, but can use it for a long time.
If you’re thinking about buying a house in Kenya as a foreigner, here’s what you need to know:
Leasehold vs. Freehold
Kenyan citizens can own land under a freehold title, which means they own it forever. Foreigners are limited to leasehold titles for houses for sale in Kenya, Africa. This is still an excellent option for most buyers.
Legal Process
The process for buying a house in Kenya as a foreigner is similar to that for locals. You’ll need a lawyer to check the property’s title and ensure everything is legal.
Chepchieng and Company Advocates has experience helping foreigners buy houses in Kenya safely.
Locations
Foreigners often look for houses for sale in Kenya, Nairobi, or Mombasa because these cities are popular with expats and investors. But, do not limit yourself, there are many other towns where you can get houses for sale in Kenya at affordable costs.
For example, Nakuru town in Nakuru County has a robust economy, great weather, and an active tourism spot. There is also Naivasha town, next to Nairobi, where you can get land for sale.
Other towns include Eldoret town, where most athletes come from; it is also one of the towns known for agriculture in the Rift Valley.
Don’t let the leasehold rule discourage you if you’re a foreigner.
A 99-year lease is long enough for most purposes, and Kenya’s real estate market is welcoming to international buyers.
How Much Does it Cost to Buy Houses for Sale in Kenya?
Now, let’s talk about costs. One of the most common questions is, “How much does a house cost in Kenya?” The answer depends on where you’re buying, the house size, and the property type. Here’s a breakdown:
Houses for Sale in Kenya, Nairobi
Nairobi is the capital and one of the most expensive places in Kenya to buy a house. A three-bedroom home in a middle-class area like Westlands or Karen can cost between KSh 10 million and KSh 30 million (about $77,000 to $230,000 USD). Luxury homes can go much higher.
Houses for Sale in Mombasa, Kenya
Mombasa is a coastal city with lower prices than Nairobi. A decent three-bedroom house might cost between KSh 5 million and KSh 15 million (about $38,000 to $115,000 USD).
Smaller Towns
In places like Kisumu or Eldoret, houses in Kenya are more affordable, ranging from KSh 3 million to KSh 10 million (about $23,000 to $77,000 USD).
For those asking, “How much is a house in Kenya in US dollars?” the exchange rate as of August 2025 is roughly 1 USD = 130 KSh. So, a KSh 10 million house is about $77,000 USD.
Other costs to consider when buying a house in Kenya include
- Stamp Duty: This is a government tax, usually 4% of the property’s value for urban areas and 2% for rural areas.
- Legal Fees: You’ll need a lawyer to handle the paperwork. We offer affordable legal services at Chepchieng and Company Advocates to smooth this process.
- Registration Fees: These are small fees paid to the land registry.
- Agent Fees: If you use a real estate agent, they may charge 1-2% of the property’s value.
So, how much does it cost to buy a house in Nairobi, Kenya?
A typical budget for a modest home in Nairobi, including all fees, might start at KSh 12 million (about $92,000 USD). Always plan for extra costs to avoid surprises.
How to Buy a House on a Mortgage in Kenya
A mortgage is an excellent option if you don’t have the full amount to buy a house in Kenya. A mortgage is a loan from a bank or financial institution to help you buy a home.
You pay it back over time with interest. Here’s how to buy a home on a mortgage in Kenya:
1. Check Your Eligibility
Banks will examine your income, credit history, and loan repayment ability. You must provide documents like payslips, bank statements, and ID.
2. Choose a Lender
Many banks in Kenya, like KCB, Standard Chartered, and Co-operative Bank, offer mortgages. Compare their interest rates and terms.
3. Get Pre-Approved
Before looking at houses for sale in Kenya, get pre-approved for a mortgage. This shows you how much you can borrow.
4. Find a House
Look for houses in Kenya that fit your budget. Your lawyer from Chepchieng and Company Advocates can verify the property’s title to ensure it’s mortgage-ready.
5. Apply for the Mortgage
Submit your application with the property details. The bank will evaluate the house to confirm its value.
6. Sign the Mortgage Agreement
Once approved, you’ll sign a loan agreement. Our law firm can review this to make sure it’s fair.
7. Repay the Loan
Mortgages in Kenya are usually repaid over 5 to 20 years. Monthly payments depend on the loan amount and interest rate.
Mortgages make buying houses for sale in Kenya more affordable because you don’t need to pay the full price up front.
However, always read the fine print. Get a property lawyer who can help you understand the legal terms of your mortgage.
Buying a House in Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi is the heart of Kenya’s real estate market. When looking for houses for sale in Kenya, houses in Nairobi range from apartments in the city center to spacious homes in suburbs like Runda, Lavington, or Kileleshwa.
Here’s why Nairobi is a great place to buy houses for sale in Kenya:
- Location: Nairobi is Kenya’s economic hub, with many job opportunities and amenities like schools, hospitals, and shopping malls.
- Variety: Nairobi has everything, whether you want a modern apartment or a large family home.
- Investment Potential: Houses in Nairobi, Kenya, often increase in value over time, making them great for investment.
When buying a house in Nairobi, Kenya, work with a trusted lawyer to avoid issues like fake titles or boundary disputes. At Chepchieng and Company Advocates, we’ve safely helped many clients buy houses in Nairobi.
Buying a House in Mombasa, Kenya
Mombasa is another popular spot for houses to be sold in Kenya. As a coastal city, it’s perfect for those who love the beach or want a vacation home.
Here’s what to know about buying a house in Mombasa, Kenya:
- Affordable Prices: Houses in Mombasa are generally cheaper than in Nairobi. You can find good options in areas like Nyali or Diani.
- Tourism Appeal: Mombasa’s tourism industry is ideal for rental properties or holiday homes.
- Legal Checks: Coastal properties sometimes have complex ownership histories. Our Chepchieng and Company Advocates team can ensure the house you want has a clean title.
Whether you’re buying a house in Mombasa or you want to buy property in Diani, located in Kwale County, the legal process is similar. Always verify the property’s ownership to avoid scams.
Can I Build a House for 200K in Kenya?
A common question is, “Can I build a house for 200K in Kenya?” In Kenyan shillings, KSh 200,000 is about $1,538 USD. Unfortunately, building a house for this amount is very difficult. Here’s why:
Construction Costs
Building a basic three-bedroom house in Kenya typically costs between KSh 2 million and KSh 5 million (about $15,000 to $38,000 USD), depending on the materials and location.
Land Costs
You’ll also need to buy land, which can cost KSh 500,000 or more, even in rural areas.
Alternatives
With KSh 200,000, you might be able to start building a small, basic house (like a one-room structure) in a rural area, but it won’t be complete.
If you’re set on building, consider saving more or exploring houses for sale in Kenya already built. Our team at Chepchieng and Company Advocates can help you find affordable options and handle the legal paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions About Houses for Sale in Kenya
1. How much does a house cost in Kenya?
It depends on the location and size. In Nairobi, a three-bedroom house might cost KSh 10 million to KSh 30 million. In Mombasa, prices range from KSh 5 million to KSh 15 million.
2. How much is a house in Kenya in US dollars?
A KSh 10 million house is about $77,000 USD, based on the current exchange rate (1 USD = 130 KSh).
3. Can a foreigner buy a house in Kenya?
Yes, foreigners can buy houses in Kenya under a 99-year leasehold title. Work with a lawyer to ensure a smooth process.
4. Can I build a house for 200K in Kenya?
Building a complete house for KSh 200,000 is unlikely, but you might start a small structure in a rural area.
Why Work with Chepchieng and Company Advocates?
Buying houses in Kenya for sale is exciting but comes with legal risks. Fake titles, hidden debts, or unclear ownership can make your dream home a nightmare. That’s where Chepchieng and Company Advocates comes in.
We’re a trusted law firm with years of experience helping people buy houses in Kenya safely. Whether you’re buying a house in Nairobi, Mombasa, or elsewhere, we can:
- Conduct title searches to confirm ownership.
- Review sale agreements and mortgage contracts.
- Handle property transfers and registration.
- Guide foreigners through the legal process of buying a house in Kenya.
We’re here to make sure your purchase is secure and stress-free. Contact Chepchieng and Company Advocates today to get started!
Final Thoughts on Houses for Sale in Kenya
Buying a house in Kenya is a big step, but it’s achievable with the correct information and support. Whether looking at houses for sale in Kenya, Nairobi, Mombasa, or smaller towns, take your time to understand the process, costs, and legal requirements.
You can buy a house in Kenya under a leasehold title if you’re a foreigner. And if you’re considering a mortgage, compare lenders to find the best deal.
At Chepchieng and Company Advocates, we’re here to help you every step of the way. From checking titles to finalizing the purchase, we’ll ensure your journey to owning a house in Kenya is smooth and secure.
Ready to find your dream home? Reach out to us today, and let us help you get started.
