Buying land in Kenya is a significant investment, but the process is guided by strict legal procedures. Any Kenyan can buy land anywhere in the country, but skipping a step can lead to disputes, fraud, or loss of money.
Understanding the procedure of buying land in Kenya is essential to secure your investment. From identifying the right piece of land to obtaining the new title deed, each step ensures your ownership is legal, transparent, and safe. This guide breaks down the process into clear, actionable steps.
Legal Procedure Of Buying Land In Kenya
Buying land involves several legal requirements that protect both the buyer and seller. Follow these steps carefully:
Land Identification And Preliminary Checks
The first step is to identify a suitable plot of land. Consider factors such as:
Location
Size
Soil type
Accessibility
Once you have a target plot, obtain a copy of the land title deed from the seller. This document is crucial for conducting further checks.
Search at Lands Registry
Verify the current owner, plot size, and location.
Check for any caveats or legal disputes.
Cost: Kshs. 520
Time: About 2 hours
Search at County Office
Ensures there are no pending land rates or local taxes.
Fees vary by county (e.g., Nairobi: Kshs. 7,500)
Time: About 2 hours
Land Verification And Sale Agreement
Obtain Land Maps
To avoid disputes, get two land maps:
| Type of Map | Purpose | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Scaled map | Shows exact plot dimensions | Kshs. 300 |
| Neighbour map | Shows adjacent plots | Kshs. 300 |
Ground Verification
Visit the land with the seller and surveyor
Verify the size and boundaries
Erect beacons to prevent future disputes
Sale Agreement
Prepared by the seller’s lawyer (optional, but recommended)
Lawyer fees:
Kshs. 3,000 for land below 1,000,000
Kshs. 8,000 for land above 1,000,000
Fees are split equally between buyer and seller
Avoid paying deposits until Land Control Board (LCB) clearance is obtained
Land Control Board Clearance And Transfer
The Land Control Board ensures all transactions follow the law. It consists of the Assistant County Commissioner and local elders.
Clearance Cost: Kshs. 1,000 (or Kshs. 5,000 to meet only the Assistant County Commissioner)
Clearance confirms the transaction is legal and transparent
Land Transfer Process
Once cleared, the buyer can proceed with the land transfer:
Seller signs the transfer form with LCB approval
Submit documents to Lands Ministry:
LCB clearance form
Land search results
County clearance
Passport photos and KRA PIN certificates
Sale agreement
Old title deed
Processing the new title deed:
Cost: Kshs. 5,000
Time: About two weeks
Stamping Of The Transfer
Buyer applies for land valuation using a form completed by the seller
Stamp duty is calculated based on land value
Payment is made to the Commissioner of Domestic Taxes
Key Tips For A Safe Land Purchase
Always verify ownership and boundaries before any payment
Use a lawyer for the sale agreement to protect your rights
Ensure LCB approval is granted before signing the transfer
Keep all receipts and documents for future reference
Buying land in Kenya is straightforward if you follow the procedure of buying land in Kenya carefully. Each step safeguards your investment, prevents disputes, and ensures legal ownership. From identifying the plot to obtaining a new title deed, proper verification and legal compliance make land purchase safe and successful.
