Buying land in Kenya is one of the most rewarding investments you can make — whether it’s for building a home, starting a business, or developing rental units. But land transactions can also be risky if you’re not careful. Before committing your hard-earned money, here are 10 crucial questions to ask before buying land in Kenya — and what each one means for you.
1. Is the Title Deed Genuine and Clean?
Why it matters: A valid and clean title deed confirms the rightful ownership of the land. It must be free from disputes, loans, or encumbrances.
What to do:
- Ask for a copy of the title deed
- Conduct a search at the Ministry of Lands
- Check if it’s freehold or leasehold (leasehold often requires renewal after 99 years)
✅ Tip: Cross-check the names, size, and registration number against official land records.
2. Who Is the Real Owner of the Land?
Why it matters: Many land scams in Kenya involve people posing as owners or brokers.
What to do:
- Confirm the seller’s identity using a national ID and KRA PIN
- Always deal directly with the registered owner or through their lawyer
- Avoid third-party deals unless verified by a licensed agent
✅ Tip: A good lawyer is your best friend here.
3. Is the Land Under Any Legal Dispute or Court Case?
Why it matters: Land involved in lawsuits can take years to clear, and you may lose your investment.
What to do:
- Perform a court registry search
- Check the Land Control Board for recent disputes
- Ask around in the local area about any known issues
4. What Is the Zoning or Land Use Policy in This Area?
Why it matters: You don’t want to buy land for a residential house only to find it’s zoned for industrial or agricultural use.
What to do:
- Visit the County Lands Office or Physical Planning Department
- Ask for the zoning map of the area
- Confirm whether you can build, subdivide, or farm
✅ Tip: Zoning also affects your land value and resale potential.
5. Is the Land Accessible by Road?
Why it matters: Land without proper access may become useless — or impossible to develop.
What to do:
- Physically visit the land
- Confirm access by public or private road
- Ensure the road is registered as a right of way (not passing through someone else’s land)
6. Is There Access to Water, Electricity, and Other Utilities?
Why it matters: Buying land with no water or electricity access could lead to extra costs or delays.
What to do:
- Ask about distance to the nearest water line or borehole
- Confirm power poles or transformer proximity
- Check for network coverage and sewage systems
✅ Tip: Even remote land can be valuable if you plan ahead for solar or borehole use.
7. Is the Area Prone to Flooding or Natural Hazards?
Why it matters: Some areas look fine during the dry season but flood terribly in the rainy season.
What to do:
- Visit during both dry and rainy seasons
- Check for signs of water flow or erosion
- Ask locals about the area’s flood history
8. Are There Any Land Rates or Pending Bills with the County?
Why it matters: Unpaid land rates are inherited by the buyer.
What to do:
- Ask for land rate clearance certificate
- Visit the County Lands Department to confirm no arrears
- Make sure your sale agreement includes who pays existing charges
9. Is the Land Within a Controlled or Gated Development?
Why it matters: Some areas have strict building rules or service fees.
What to do:
- Ask for the homeowners association rules or covenants
- Understand what you’re allowed to build
- Ask about monthly or annual charges
✅ Tip: Controlled developments offer security and planned infrastructure — but limit flexibility.
10. Is the Value Fair Based on Market Trends?
Why it matters: Many people overpay for land due to poor due diligence.
What to do:
- Compare land prices in the area (per acre or per 50×100 plot)
- Use a registered valuer to estimate market value
- Confirm the growth potential or future developments nearby
📝 Final Thoughts
Buying land in Kenya is a big step — and it’s easy to get emotionally excited, especially when the price seems right. But asking the right questions and working with trusted professionals (lawyer, surveyor, valuer) can save you from huge losses or future regrets.
👉 Always involve a lawyer before signing anything.
👉 Never pay in full before due diligence is completed.
👉 Visit the land yourself, at least once.
