Buying land in Kenya: the checks that matter

Before committing to a plot, confirm the title particulars at the relevant land registry and match them against the seller's identity documents.

Request a recent official search, confirm rates and land rent are clear, and verify the plot boundaries on site with a licensed surveyor. Where the land sits within an approved scheme, ask for the approved subdivision plan and confirm the access roads shown on it exist on the ground.

Agree the payment structure in writing through an advocate, and only release the balance once the transfer documents are lodged.