Market Analysis
Why Urban Homeownership in Kenya is at an All-Time Low
By Elizabeth Costabir2026-01-0214 min read
The Dream Deferred
Current data shows urban homeownership has dipped to approx. 21.3%. High land prices, stagnant wages, and the 16% VAT on building materials have made "saving for a house" nearly impossible for the middle class.
The result? A "Renter Nation" where developers are now focusing on long-term luxury rentals rather than "for sale" units.
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EconomyTrendsSocial Impact
Elizabeth Costabir
Senior Market Analyst at Murivest Realty Group with over 10 years of experience in commercial real estate investment and market research. Sarah specializes in identifying emerging market trends and investment opportunities in Nairobi's commercial property sector.