For Kenyans living abroad, acquiring land in Kenya can be fraught with risks. Many have faced deception from family members or friends entrusted with their hard-earned money to buy land, only to discover that the land was never purchased or was registered under someone else’s name.
To avoid such issues, Kenyans abroad should consider using trusted real estate agents or consultants and always insist on formal procedures, such as:
- Conducting transactions through reputable agents.
- Ensuring the land is registered in their name.
- Sending funds through traceable banking channels.
Involving Family or Friends in Land Purchases
Although family members and friends might seem like reliable agents, issues like dishonesty and mismanagement can arise. To minimize risks:
- Engage a neutral third party, such as a real estate consultant or lawyer, to oversee the process.
- Ensure compliance with the necessary legal procedures through the Ministry of Lands.
- Have the land officially registered in your name as per the title deeds.
- Send funds via a bank account for transparency and accountability.
Dealing with Real Estate Agents
Opting for a reputable real estate agency can be a safer approach. However, caution is still necessary:
- Research and verify the credibility of the real estate companies you intend to deal with.
- Request physical visits to their offices or to the land being purchased.
- Prioritize firms with a local presence in your country of residence or those with verifiable credentials.
- Always demand a formal sales agreement and make payments directly to the company’s bank account, keeping all receipts as proof.
Conclusion
By taking these necessary precautions, Kenyans living abroad can protect themselves from fraud and ensure a smoother, safer land acquisition process. Being diligent about legal registration, involving trusted professionals, and avoiding informal agreements will greatly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to scams or family-related disputes.
