The Home Buying Process
Six steps from saving to owning your first home in Kenya.
STEP 01
Check Your Finances
Review your income, savings and existing debts. Most banks require a 10-20% deposit and your monthly repayment should not exceed 40% of your gross income.
STEP 02
Get Pre-Qualified
Use our mortgage pre-qualification tool below to estimate how much you can borrow before you start viewing properties.
STEP 03
Find the Right Property
Browse listings that match your budget and lifestyle. Consider location, amenities, future value and proximity to work.
STEP 04
Engage a Lawyer
Always hire a conveyancing lawyer to conduct due diligence, verify title deeds and handle the transfer process.
STEP 05
Make an Offer
Once you find the right property, negotiate the price and terms. A signed sale agreement protects both parties.
STEP 06
Complete the Purchase
Your lawyer handles title transfer, stamp duty (4% of property value) and registration. Congratulations — you own a home!
What Can You Afford?
Enter your salary to see what properties are within your reach.
Monthly Gross Salary (KES)
Existing Loan Payments (KES)
Loan Term
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Kamuti Waweru & Company Advocates
At Kamuti Waweru & Company Advocates, our Conveyancing, Real Estate and Commercial Practice delivers comprehensive, efficient, and commercially astute legal solutions to developers, investors, financial institutions, corporates, and private clients across Kenya. We combine deep expertise in Kenya's land laws, the ArdhiSasa digital land registry system, and evolving regulatory frameworks with a practical, solution-oriented approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much deposit do I need to buy a house in Kenya?
Most banks require a minimum 10% deposit, though some require up to 20%. For a KES 10M property, you need at least KES 1M–2M saved.
What is stamp duty in Kenya?
Stamp duty is 4% of the property value for urban properties and 2% for rural properties. It is paid to the Kenya Revenue Authority during the title transfer process.
How long does it take to buy a property in Kenya?
A straightforward purchase typically takes 60–90 days from offer acceptance to title transfer. Off-plan properties may take 1–3 years to complete.
Can I get a mortgage as a first-time buyer?
Yes. Most major banks including KCB, Equity, Absa and NCBA offer first-time buyer mortgage products. KMRC (Kenya Mortgage Refinance Company) offers subsidised rates for affordable housing.
What costs should I budget for beyond the property price?
Budget an additional 6–8% for: stamp duty (4%), legal fees (1–2%), valuation fees (0.25%), and agent commissions if applicable.