Land is one of the most popular investments in Kenya — but it's also where costly mistakes happen. Before you send any money, work through this due‑diligence checklist. When in doubt, use a qualified lawyer and a licensed surveyor.
Get the title details and run a search at the relevant land registry (or via the ArdhiSasa platform where available). Confirm the registered owner matches the person selling, and that there are no cautions or restrictions.
A search also shows whether the land is charged to a bank or has a caveat. Never buy land that's tied to an unpaid loan unless the discharge is handled properly through the lender.
Ask for the survey map and have a licensed surveyor confirm the beacons on the ground match the size and boundaries on paper. Physically walk the plot.
For town or county land, confirm land rates and any ground rent are paid up. Unpaid rates can become your problem after transfer.
Confirm what the land is approved for — residential, commercial, agricultural — and any restrictions. This matters if you plan to build.
Sales of agricultural land typically need consent from the Land Control Board. Skipping this can void the transaction.
Is there a legal access road to the plot? How far are water, electricity and a tarmac road? These affect both value and how soon you can build.
Confirm the seller's ID and, for family or community land, that all the necessary parties consent. Beware of anyone rushing you or refusing a proper search.
Put everything in a written sale agreement drafted or reviewed by a lawyer, pay through traceable means, and get official receipts. Only pay the balance once the transfer is progressing correctly.
On NestKey you can search land and plots by county, see the plot size and an exact map location, and contact the seller directly. Do your checks, then buy with confidence.
