10 Questions to Ask a Real Estate Developer in 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

While the four points above are critical, here is the complete list for your due diligence:

1. Track Record: "Can I see your portfolio of completed projects?"
2. Legal Approvals: "Are the NCA and NEMA approvals available for review?"
3. Timeline & Delays: "What is the contractual completion date and the penalty for default?"
4. Service Charges: "What is the estimated monthly service charge and what does it include?"
5. Financing: "Do you offer flexible payment plans or have partnerships with banks for mortgages?"
6. The Contractor: "Who is the main contractor and what is their reputation?"
7. Fittings & Finishes: "What brands are being used for fixtures, tiles, and appliances? Are they specified in the contract?"
8. Property Management: "Do you offer in-house property management services to help me find tenants?"
9. Projected ROI: "What are the data-backed projected rental yields for this type of unit in this location?"
10. The Sale Agreement: "Can I have a copy of the draft sale agreement to review with my advocate?"

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.