10 Questions to Ask a
Developer
Your 2026 Investor Due Diligence Checklist for Kenya
Investing in Kenya's vibrant real estate market, from the corporate heart of
Nairobi to the coastal luxury of Mombasa, is a
significant financial decision. The single most important factor in your success isn't just
the location—it's the developer.
Asking the right questions upfront protects your investment, ensures quality, and clarifies
your future returns. Here is the essential 10-point checklist to guide your conversation.
1. Check Their Track Record: Have They Completed Projects in Nairobi & Mombasa?
Past performance is the best indicator of future success. Ask for a portfolio. Have they
completed similar projects on time and to the promised standard? A developer with a strong
history (like SMB Properties' completed projects
SMB Karura View in
Nairobi and
SMB Suites in Mombasa) has proven their expertise and
financial stability.
2. Verify Legal Approvals: Is the Project NEMA & NCA Compliant?
This is non-negotiable. Ask to see the approved building plans, the NCA
(National Construction Authority) registration, and the NEMA
(National Environment Management Authority) license. Also, verify the
land title to ensure the developer is the rightful owner and the property is free from any
legal issues.
3. Project Timelines & Delays: What is the Contractual Completion Date?
Get a specific, contractual completion date. More importantly, ask what happens if that date
is missed. A professional sale agreement, which you should *always* have your lawyer
review, will include a "default" clause that outlines penalties or compensation for delays.
4. Beyond the Sale Price: What Are the Projected Monthly Service Charges?
Your investment doesn't end at the purchase price.
Ask for a
detailed breakdown of all projected service charges.
These fees cover security,
pool maintenance, gym upkeep, landscaping, and common area utilities. This figure is vital
for accurately calculating your net rental income and overall ROI.
The Ultimate 10-Point Due Diligence Checklist for Kenyan Property
While the four points above are critical, here is the complete list for your due diligence:
- Track Record: "Can I see your portfolio of completed projects?"
- Legal Approvals: "Are the NCA and NEMA approvals available for
review?"
- Timeline & Delays: "What is the contractual completion date and the
penalty for default?"
- Service Charges: "What is the estimated monthly service charge and
what does it include?"
- Financing: "Do you offer flexible payment plans or have partnerships
with banks for mortgages?"
- The Contractor: "Who is the main contractor and what is their
reputation?"
- Fittings & Finishes: "What brands are being used for fixtures,
tiles, and appliances? Are they specified in the contract?"
- Property Management: "Do you offer in-house property management
services to help me find tenants?"
- Projected ROI: "What are the data-backed projected rental yields
for this type of unit in this location?"
- The Sale Agreement: "Can I have a copy of the draft sale agreement
to review with my advocate?"
The Final Step: Invest with a Transparent Developer in Kenya
Asking these questions is the hallmark of a smart investor. At SMB Properties, we welcome
them. We build with transparency, providing all documentation upfront and constructing
projects in Nairobi and Mombasa that are designed for long-term value and high returns.
Ready to invest with a developer you can trust? Discover our premium developments and let us
answer every question you have.
