What conveyancing involves
Pre-contract due diligence, including official searches, rates and rent clearance, beacon verification and confirmation of approvals.
Negotiation and drafting of sale agreements under the Law of Contract Act and Land Act, 2012.
Application for and obtaining consents — Land Control Board, Commissioner of Lands, sectional management company and lender consents as applicable.
Drafting and registration of transfers, charges, discharges, leases and easements at the relevant Land Registry or via Ardhisasa.
Payment of stamp duty (typically 4% urban, 2% rural) and capital gains tax compliance with the Kenya Revenue Authority.
Buyer-side conveyancing
We protect a buyer's deposit by holding funds in our client account pending verification of title, secure all required consents, and only release funds when the seller's documents are in order for registration of transfer.
Seller-side conveyancing
We assemble the seller's bundle — title, rates and rent clearance, KRA clearance, identification — verify the buyer's funds and procure a clean discharge of any existing charge to enable a single-day completion where possible.
Diaspora and remote transactions
Diaspora clients can complete Kenyan property transactions remotely through a properly drafted power of attorney executed abroad and notarised or apostilled. We coordinate signature, courier and registration to minimise the need for in-country travel.
Frequently asked questions
How long does conveyancing take in Kenya?+
A typical freehold transfer takes six to twelve weeks from signature of the sale agreement to registration. Leasehold and Land Control Board consents can extend the timeline; bank charge releases often determine the pace.
How much is stamp duty on land in Kenya?+
Stamp duty is generally 4% of the property value in urban areas and 2% in rural areas, payable to the Kenya Revenue Authority before registration of transfer.
What is Ardhisasa?+
Ardhisasa is the Ministry of Lands' digital land administration platform. Many Nairobi land transactions now require both parties and their advocates to transact on Ardhisasa for searches, consents and registrations.
Can I buy land in Kenya from abroad?+
Yes. Most diaspora purchases are completed through a registered power of attorney appointing a relative or advocate in Kenya, with funds held in the advocate's client account pending registration of transfer.
Do I need an advocate to buy land in Kenya?+
Sale agreements for land in Kenya are required to be drawn by an advocate under the Advocates (Remuneration) Order. Engaging counsel also protects deposits and ensures title is properly verified before payment.