It’s no secret that many people get conned when purchasing property or land in Kenya. Statistics show that 8 out of 10 Kenyans fall victim to such scams, despite it seeming like an easy process.

In reality, buying land requires extensive due diligence and guidance from the right professionals. Beginners might overlook these steps and buy land simply for the thrill of being a ‘land-owner’.

A beginner can easily make a few mistakes, both legally and generally. To avoid becoming the next victim, here are some signs to watch out for:

1. Failing to conduct Site Visits

This should be bordering on common sense. Even when making everyday purchases such as shoes, clothes, and food, you carefully select what you buy. The same logic should apply to buying land.

Many people tend to buy land they haven’t seen firsthand. The proper process involves conducting a site visit to ensure the land exists, meets your expectations, and matches the seller’s description.

2. Not conducting an official search at the land registry

People tend to frequently skip this step when purchasing land. To verify that the seller is the legitimate owner, you must conduct a land registry search. This process is free and typically takes less than two days.

To do a land registry search, you need a copy of the original title deed and the seller’s PIN and ID.

3. Failing to conduct due diligence, consultations

There’s nothing to lose when doing due diligence. Land buyers should take their time; the property literally isn’t going anywhere.

For example, ensure the property isn’t leasehold, which reverts to the government after 99 years. It’s important to verify that you’re not being sold land that has reverted to the government. There are plenty of tales of such cases.

How Kenyans get conned into buying cheap ‘wilderness’ plots

4. Failing to involve the right professionals

To avoid the common pitfalls of land buying, it’s best to consult with real estate professionals. They can guide you through the process and help prevent any potential scams.

This may involve hiring professionals such as a High Court advocate, a valuer, a surveyor, and a member of the Land Control Board. While it might seem costly, their expertise ensures that every detail of your purchase is thoroughly vetted, helping you get your money’s worth.

Other mistakes a land buyer is prone to make include:

• • Paying for land that they don’t have the original title deed or its copy.
  • Assuming that sellers from villages/remote areas cannot be cons.
  • Hurrying the land-buying process
  • Failing to secure spousal consent (should it apply)

These potential skirmishes can also be avoided by choosing a reputable real estate dealer. AMCCO Properties Ltd specializes in this area, ensuring a smooth and secure land purchase process for you.

Ranked as the best real estate company in Kenya for 2024, AMCCO Properties not only guarantees you a property but also conducts thorough due diligence to ensure the property’s legitimacy and value.

AMCCO Properties has property listings in Ngong and Kikuyu towns, with buyers eagerly snapping up their plots. Their competitive pricing makes land ownership more accessible to a broader range of people.

Reasons why buying land in Kikuyu town is a bargain

To steer clear of scams, simply contact AMCCO’s exceptional customer care team. They’ll provide personalized assistance at every step of your land purchase journey.

AMCCO is a reputable company that ensures clients receive their title deeds promptly after purchasing land. They also have an internal team to help assess development projects, implement risk mitigation strategies, and provide advice to safeguard a buyer’s investment.

Why risk losing your hard-earned money to scams when you can visit AMCCO’s office and secure the right land at a great price? All their properties are conveniently located within the capital city’s surroundings.