Institutional Office vs Residential Returns in Africa
Analyzing the performance differential between institutional-grade office buildings and residential developments across major African cities.
Key Investment Points
- Office yields: 7.2-9.2% across major cities
- Residential yields: 6.5-8.0% in growth markets
- Institutional preference for predictable income
- Yield premium of 1.5-2.0% for prime offices
Institutional Analysis
Prime office yields in Nairobi (7.2-8.5%) and Lagos (7.8-9.2%) demonstrate superior risk-adjusted returns compared to residential assets (6.5-8.0%). Institutional office buildings benefit from longer leases, creditworthy tenants, and lower vacancy rates. While residential developments offer higher capital growth potential in growth markets like Accra and Kigali, institutional offices provide more predictable income streams and lower volatility. The yield premium for institutional office space has widened to 1.5-2.0% over residential assets, making offices increasingly attractive for pension funds and sovereign wealth funds seeking stable, income-focused investments.
