How to avoid being conned when buying lands for sale in Kenya

Lands for sale in Kenya have become a platform for conmen to defraud innocent victims of land purchase millions of shillings in shady land deals. This particularly scares away investors because a lot of money is usually at stake when buying land. But there is no cause for alarm because the steps highlighted below will give you guidance on the steps to follow so as to avoid being a victim land conmen;

First, you need to ensure that the title deed or allotment letter is genuine. This can be a little tricky because the conmen have mastered the art of making fake documents that look exactly like the originals including the seal and the signatures. It is advisable to seek the services of a certified conveyance advocate with a vast experience in land matters, who can detect a fake title by studying the materials used, as well as the entries, signatures and seals. You can also present the supposed original title for inspection by a land registrar at the relevant land office to confirm if it is genuine. Before purchasing land, find out its history from reliable sources such as neighbors, surveyors or advocates who have been involved in previous transactions.

It is also important to conduct a search before buying or committing to buy any lands for sale in Kenya. This is usually done at the lands office and it helps to ascertain the true ownership of the property, to establish whether the land actually exists and whether it’s on a road reserve. A land search also helps to determine the nature of the title, whether freehold or leasehold and in the case of leasehold you can also establish the history of the leasehold so that you don’t purchase land whose lease period is almost due.

An investor should ensure that he follows due procedure while buying land. First and foremost, ensure that you are dealing with a legal entity, which in this case is a reputable real estate agent. Sign all the necessary documents such as the sales agreement which are legally binding and can be produced as evidence in a court of law. Also ensure that you obtain a requisite land rent and the land rates clearance certificate to avoid paying outstanding taxes in the seller’s name.

When you follow and observe the above tips, buying lands for sale in Kenya should be a walk in the park. Do not miss out on investment opportunities in Kenya out of fear of being conned which can be easily avoided by following simple and precise steps listed above.

 Read more about lands in Kenya on our website at www.westkenyarealestate.com