The real estate industry in Kenya can be challenging to navigate, making it crucial for land buyers to ask crucial questions before investing in property. Failure to do so can lead to an unfulfilling investment. Here are the top five questions that every land buyer in Kenya should ask before making a purchase:
Freehold or Leasehold: It is essential to know whether the land you intend to buy is freehold or leasehold. Freehold land gives the buyer absolute ownership, while leasehold land gives the buyer interest in the land for a specified period of time. If the land is on leasehold, be sure to find out the terms of the lease before making a purchase.
Access to the Land: Always ask for site maps and confirm the accessibility of the land, especially during the rainy season.
Restrictions to the Use of the Land: Find out if the government, local authorities, or neighborhood committees have placed any restrictions on land usage. This will help you determine whether the intended use of the property is viable.
Physical and Environmental Issues: Perform basic precautionary investigations to ascertain whether there are any physical or environmental issues that could affect the condition of the land or make it unsuitable for its intended usage.
Availability of Major Services: Ensure that the area you plan to buy land has access to basic resources such as electricity, water, and sewer lines. If the area lacks these services, get a quote from relevant authorities on the cost of connection before making a purchase.
By asking these important questions, you can take every precaution necessary to ensure a wise and fulfilling investment in land in Kenya.