Buying your first apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make. In Nairobi, the process has a few local details that catch many first-time buyers off guard. Understanding them early will save you money, time and stress.
Here are the five things every first-time apartment buyer in Nairobi should know.
1. The price on the listing is not your total cost
The purchase price is only part of what you will pay. Budget for these additional costs:
- Stamp duty: 4% of the property value for properties in urban areas such as Nairobi
- Legal fees: your advocate's fees for reviewing the agreement and handling the transfer
- Valuation fees: required by the bank if you are using a mortgage
- Registration and search fees at the Lands registry
- Service charge deposit and advance service charge, often payable on handover
- Utility connection deposits for water and electricity
A useful rule of thumb is to set aside an extra 6% to 8% of the purchase price to cover these costs. Ask your advocate for an exact breakdown before you commit.
2. Understand the title you are buying
Most apartments in Nairobi are sold on a leasehold basis, and each unit should eventually have its own sectional title under the Sectional Properties Act, 2020. A sectional title gives you clear, separate ownership of your unit and a share of the common areas.
Before paying anything, ask:
- Is the land title clean, with no charges, caveats or disputes? Your advocate can run an official search on Ardhisasa.
- How many years remain on the head lease?
- Will the unit get its own sectional title, and when?
A missing or delayed title can make it harder to sell, refinance or get a mortgage later.
3. Off-plan and ready units carry different risks
Off-plan apartments are usually cheaper and come with a payment plan spread over the construction period. The trade-off is risk: delays, changes to the specification, or in the worst case, a project that stalls.
Ready apartments cost more but let you see exactly what you are getting and move in or start earning rent right away.
If you choose off-plan, protect yourself:
- Research the developer's completed projects and visit them
- Confirm the project has planning approval and NCA registration
- Make sure payments go to a client or escrow account, not a personal account
- Check what the sale agreement says about delays and refunds
4. Service charge matters as much as price
Every apartment building charges a monthly service charge to cover security, cleaning, lifts, water pumps, generators, gardens and amenities. In buildings with pools, gyms and concierge services, it can be significant.
Ask for the current or projected service charge in writing, and find out who manages the building. A well-run building keeps its value and attracts better tenants. A poorly managed one loses both.
5. Get your finances in order before you search
If you plan to use a mortgage, speak to two or three banks or mortgage providers early. Most will ask for:
- Pay slips or audited accounts if you are self-employed
- Six to twelve months of bank statements
- Your KRA PIN and tax compliance certificate
- Your national ID or passport
A pre-approval tells you exactly what you can afford and lets you make a credible offer as soon as you find the right apartment. Sellers and developers take prepared buyers more seriously.
Final word
Buying your first apartment in Nairobi does not have to be overwhelming. Know your total costs, confirm the title, weigh off-plan against ready units, check the service charge and line up your financing first.
At Njogu Real Estate we guide first-time buyers through every step, from shortlisting apartments to handover. Book a free consultation through our Contact page and we will help you find a home that fits your budget.