Do you intend to purchase a farm in Kenya? Do you know how to get started? The thought already is a great start! Imagine waking up to beautiful green surroundings, working the soil, and making money while on it. You are not alone and this can be a beginning of a great start! Let’s start now!
What to Consider Before Buying a Farm in Kenya
Location
First things first, location matters. Are you envisioning a farm close to bustling markets or a peaceful rural setting? Think about accessibility, infrastructure, and potential for growth. A farm’s location can play a significant role in its success.
Size: Thinking Big (or Small)
Farm size isn’t just a number; it’s about matching your ambitions. Consider what you want to grow and raise. A smaller farm might be perfect for intensive cultivation, while a larger one could accommodate diverse activities.
Soil Type
Soil quality is the heartbeat of a farm. Different crops thrive in different soils. Learn about soil types in your desired area and how they can affect your agricultural endeavours.
Water Availability
Water is life for your farm. A reliable water source is non-negotiable. Investigate water availability on the property and consider options for irrigation.
Climate
Kenya’s climate varies across regions. Research local climate patterns to select crops that’ll flourish in your chosen area. Knowing when the rains come and when the sun shines is golden.
Access to Markets
Proximity to markets can be a game-changer. Farms near markets have an advantage when it comes to distributing produce and engaging with customers.
Government Regulations
Get acquainted with land ownership regulations, especially if you’re not a Kenyan citizen. Kenya restricts foreigners from owning land but allows them to lease land for a maximum of 99 years according to Constitution and the Land Control Act (Cap 302). Legal matters matter, so do your homework or consult an expert.
Farm Cost
Farming dreams meet reality when the numbers come into play. Factor in the cost of the land, potential development, and ongoing operational expenses.
How to Find a Farm for Sale in Kenya
Real Estate Websites
Real estate websites (like ourselves 😉) know the land, the market, and the ins and outs of buying a farm. Opting to buy directly from real estate websites that own the farms can offer distinct advantages. These websites often provide a higher level of transparency and accountability as they have direct ownership of the properties they list. This can reduce the risk of misrepresented information and enhance the overall reliability of property details. Additionally, purchasing through such websites can streamline the buying process, ensuring smoother transactions and potentially minimising third-party involvement.
Online Listings
Farm listings are numerous on online platforms. To get a sense of the available properties, go through the pictures, descriptions, and other information. Online listings come with significant downsides despite their convenience and abundance of possibilities. It is imperative to personally inspect the property before committing because a lack of physical presence could result in misunderstandings or mistakes in property facts. The suitability of the farm for your purposes may also be impacted by the local context, including community dynamics or potential difficulties, which are not always fully reflected in online advertisements.
Word-of-Mouth
Networking within local farming communities can unearth hidden gems. Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth when it comes to finding your dream farm.
So, What’s the Legal Process for Buying a Farm in Kenya?
Conducting a Land Search
Before sealing the deal, ensure the property’s title is legit. Dig into the ownership history to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Preparing an Offer
Ready to make an offer? Awesome! Prepare a solid proposal that covers your interests and safeguards your investment.
Signing a Sale Agreement
A sale agreement makes everything official. It outlines terms, conditions, and expectations. Get the details down on paper and ink that deal.
Paying the Purchase Price
Payment time! Make secure transactions and double-check all details before you break out the chequebook.
Registering the Land Title
Transferring ownership involves registering the land title. This step is crucial for making your ownership legally recognised.
Tips for Buying a Farm in Kenya
- Get Professional Advice: Lawyers and real estate agents are your farm-buying dream team. Their expertise is invaluable in navigating legal and market complexities.
- Do Your Research: Dive into the local market. Understand property values, farming practices, and future trends.
- Be Prepared to Negotiate: Negotiation is an art. Be ready to engage in friendly back-and-forths to strike the best deal.
- Engage the locals: Talk to neighbours and people in the area as well as the local authorities like the chief or area head of Nyumba Kumi.
Conclusion
We cannot exhaust everything, but we hope the information is enough to get you started. We sell farming land and plots in Malindi, Kilifi. If you need a farm to buy at an affordable price, then check out our listings. You might be wondering if Malindi is worth it, check out this article here. The land prices in Malindi are currently the cheapest in Kenya but they are going up fast. Contact us via our page or on WhatsApp at +254 799 999 797. Remember, your dream farm is out here waiting for you to make it a reality. So go ahead, take that leap of faith, and let the farming journey begin! 🌱🌾