This archive report was first published on 22 August 2020.
Buying Land in Kenya: A Step-by-Step Guide ¶
Acquiring land in Kenya is a significant investment, and it's essential to follow the correct procedures to avoid being swindled. Published on August 22, 2020, this guide outlines the 10 easy steps to help you navigate the process.
Land is a valuable asset in Kenya, and its acquisition can be a complex process. However, by following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transaction and avoid any potential pitfalls.
Here are the 10 easy steps to buying land in Kenya:
- Verify the seller's ownership by asking to see the title deed or a copy of it.
- Conduct a search at the Ministry of Lands to confirm the owner's identity and any caveats on the title deed. This search costs Ksh 520.
- Check with local authorities to see if the parcel has any unpaid land rates. If there are, agree with the seller on who will settle the debt.
- Buy two maps from the Ministry of Lands: one showing the exact measurements of the piece you're buying (mutation) and the other showing the neighbouring lands. Each map costs Ksh 350.
- Verify the details on the map with a surveyor (you can also do it yourself) and check all the beacons.
- Bargain the price with the seller and write down an agreement. You can do this before a lawyer or on your own.
- Pay the deposit or as agreed in your agreement. Paying the whole price is not recommended in case the deal falls through.
- Book a meeting with the Lands Control Board (LCB) to issue consent for the land to be sold. This costs Ksh 1,000, and you can also book a special LCB meeting for Ksh 5,000.
- Pay the remaining balance after getting consent from LCB.
- With the consent from LCB, a recent search (not more than 6 months), clearance form from county government regarding land rates, your two maps, the agreement, KRA PIN, 2 passport photos, and a copy of the title deed, go to the Ministry of Lands and change ownership at a cost of Ksh 5,000.
- Pay stamp duty, which is 4% of the sale value in municipalities and 2% of the sale value in reserves.
Once you've completed these steps, the land belongs to you. However, before celebrating, visit the Ministry of Lands and do a search to confirm if it really reads your name.
