Kenya Property Market for Overseas Buyers

Yes, but only on a lease. The Constitution bars non-citizens from freehold land, so foreigners hold leasehold of up to 99 years, which can be registered, sold and passed on. Apartments can be held on leasehold under the Sectional Properties Act. Agricultural land needs Land Control Board consent, which takes three to six months.

Stamp duty of 4% in towns and 2% in rural areas, paid by the buyer. Rent is taxed at a 30% withholding on gross rent for non-residents, or 7.5% on gross rent for resident landlords. Capital gains tax is 15% on the gain when you sell, and counties charge small annual land rates.

Freehold is for citizens only. A foreign buyer takes a leasehold of up to 99 years on a house, apartment or plot, and companies controlled by foreigners are limited in the same way. Renewal on expiry is usual but not guaranteed by law, so check the years left on the lease before you buy.

Yes, from some banks, but it is costly and limited. Expect a 40% or larger deposit, so 50% to 60% loan-to-value, over 15 to 20 years, at double-digit interest rates. Many overseas buyers instead use a developer payment plan, typically a 10% to 30% deposit and instalments through construction.

Nairobi homes have risen about 4% to 7% a year, with gross rental yields of 5% to 7%. Satellite towns and the coast can yield 7% to 10% gross. Mortgage rates are high, shilling movements affect returns in dollars, and commercial space is oversupplied in places. Capital at risk.

No. Kenya has no residency or visa tied to property. Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) and can stay up to 90 days, and anyone wanting to live or work there needs a separate permit.