For many Kenyans living abroad, building a home or investing in property back home represents years of disciplined saving, patience and long-term plan for retirement.
Yet despite having the financial resources, many projects experience delays, disputes, cost overruns and general dissatisfaction majorly because of poor planning.
Over the years, I have observed several recurring mistakes that aspiring property owners make regardless of the size of their investment including but not limited to:
Being Too Trusting - Even When You Have a Professional Team
Having a competent professional team is essential, but it should never replace good governance and accountability.
Construction projects involve multiple stakeholders, changing site conditions, and human decision-making. Trust your team, but always establish systems that protect your investment should circumstances change.
A prudent client always maintains reasonable checks and balances throughout the project. For example; retaining an agreed percentage of payments until contractual obligations have been satisfactorily fulfilled.
Choosing Service Providers Based Solely on the Lowest Quotation or Social Media Popularity
Price should never be the only factor when selecting professionals.
Likewise, an impressive social media presence does not necessarily reflect professional competence or integrity. An ideal service provider must demonstrate competency through a relevant, verifiable portfolio, accreditations, and testimonials from real clients.
Additionally, remain observant throughout the project, especially if you notice sudden changes in communication, professionalism or attitude.
Being Too Rigid or Overly Skeptical
Construction is inherently a high-risk industry influenced by factors beyond anyone's control.
Weather conditions, economic fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, unforeseen ground conditions, accidents, and regulatory requirements can all affect project timelines and costs.
While accountability is important, clients should also appreciate that genuine challenges sometimes arise despite proper planning. Successful projects are built on collaboration rather than suspicion.
Treat every member of the project team as a professional partner working toward a common objective.
Maintaining open communication and approaching challenges objectively allows the team to resolve issues efficiently without creating unnecessary conflict or mistrust.
In conclusion, invest more in planning and steer away from shortcuts. What you might think you will avoid paying now, will be billed later with a lot of regret.
Always embrace professionalism in the entire process. Remember that you can always pay for what you want, but getting what you pay for can be disastrous.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute professional advice. For guidance on your specific construction project, please consult [email protected]
