How to Buy Land in Kenya as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)
Everything you need to know to legally and safely secure prime Kenyan plots on 99-year leasehold tenure—with CGEN Properties by your side.
Foreign Ownership Rules in Kenya
- Leasehold Only: Foreigners can only hold land on a 99-year renewable lease. Freehold is reserved for Kenyan citizens.
- Agricultural Land: Controlled by the Land Control Board; foreigners need a presidential exemption published in the Kenya Gazette.
- Corporate Ownership: A company is “foreign” if any shareholder is non-Kenyan, so it is also limited to 99-year leasehold.
- Beach Plots: First-row coastal land is generally restricted; check zoning before purchase.
8-Step Secure Purchase Process
- 1. Property Search – Use trusted portals or CGEN Properties’ inventory to shortlist plots.
- 2. Title Search – Free official search on Ardhisasa (Nairobi) or local registry to confirm ownership and encumbrances.
- 3. Survey & Beacons – Engage a licensed surveyor to verify boundaries and obtain mutation maps.
- 4. Negotiate & Offer – Agree on price and terms; CGEN can negotiate on your behalf.
- 5. Sale Agreement – Prepared by a qualified property lawyer; pay 10 % deposit to an escrow account.
- 6. Valuation & Stamp Duty – Government valuation; pay 4 % (urban) or 2 % (rural) stamp duty via KRA iTax.
- 7. Alien Land-Holding License – Apply at Ministry of Lands if required (usually processed within 30 days).
- 8. Transfer & Registration – Lodge transfer documents at the Land Registry; receive new leasehold title in your name.
Typical Transaction Costs
- Stamp Duty: 4 % (urban) / 2 % (rural) of government valuation.
- Legal Fees: 1–2 % of purchase price.
- Search & Survey: KES 1,000–5,000.
- Registration & Misc: KES 5,000–10,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own land in Kenya outright as a foreigner?
No. Foreigners are limited to 99-year renewable leasehold tenure under Article 65 of the Kenyan Constitution.
What happens after 99 years?
The National Land Commission will offer the previous leaseholder first right of renewal, provided the land is not required for public use and the holder meets citizenship criteria.
Do I need to be physically present in Kenya?
No. You can give your lawyer Power of Attorney to complete the process while you are abroad.
How long does the process take?
With all documents ready, 30–60 days is typical; CGEN Properties fast-tracks due diligence to reduce delays.
Can I get financing?
Kenyan banks offer mortgages to foreigners up to 60–70 % LTV for leasehold properties. CGEN partners with leading lenders for quick pre-approval.
Why Buy with CGEN Properties
- Verified Titles: Every plot is pre-searched and vetted.
- End-to-End Support: Lawyer, surveyor, valuation, and government liaison handled for you.
- Diaspora Desk: Remote buyers receive WhatsApp video tours and e-signing.
- Prime Locations: Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, and Nairobi suburbs with ready title deeds.
- Flexible Payment Plans: Up to 12-month instalments with 0 % interest.
Ready to Own Prime Kenyan Land?
Contact CGEN Properties today for a free consultation and curated list of foreigner-friendly plots.
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Sources & Further Reading
BuyRentKenya – Owning Property in Kenya as a Foreigner
WKA Advocates – How Can a Foreigner Own Property in Kenya?
Kings Developers – Guide to Buying Land in Kenya (2025 Update)
Njaga & Co. Advocates – Owning Property in Kenya by Foreigners
Fanaka Real Estate – Can Non-Citizen Legally Buy and Own Land in Kenya?
