When you’re thinking about buying land in Kenya, one of the most essential due diligence steps is to ask for a title deed. This piece of documentation serves as the ultimate proof that the person selling the land actually owns it, which is pretty important if you don’t want to get conned! Remember, there are many land scams in Kenya and you have to be on your toes to make sure you’re not getting duped with a fake land deal. So, we’ve put together a handy guide to help you tell a genuine title deed kenya from a fake one.
Let’s dive in and get you ready to make a safe and secure land purchase!
What are title deeds?
Well, title deeds are legal documents that prove you’re the rightful owner of a piece of land or property. In Kenya, the Ministry of Lands is the one that gives you these official documents. They contain all the crucial info like the owner’s name, the size of the land and where it’s located with its boundaries clearly marked out.
The problem, though, is that there are rogue land sellers with fake title deeds out there! So,you should know how to spot a real title deed from a fake one. After all, you don’t want to get scammed or buy something that’s already been sold to someone else.
Types of title deeds in Kenya
It’s worth noting that in Kenya, there are actually some different kinds of title deeds. Below are the most common types:
- Absolute title deed: This type provides the most comprehensive form of land ownership. It means you own the land outright, with no strings attached and you can do whatever you want with it, within the constraints of the law of course. It’s what most people have when they own their own property without any restrictions.
- Leasehold title deed: This is a title deed that grants you the right to occupy and use a property for a specified period, but you do not own the land itself. After the stipulated time is up, then you have to renew the lease again.
- Sectional title deed: Now, if you live in an apartment complex or a similar setup with shared spaces, this is the title deed you’re given. It shows you own your part, but you’re all part of the same neighborhood club.
How to Know a Genuine Title Deed in Kenya
Now that you know about the different types of title deeds, here’s a simple guide to tell if you’re dealing with a genuine title deed kenya or a fake:
Do a and search at the ministry of lands
The best way to know for sure that you have a genuine title deed Kenya is to check-up with the Ministry of Lands. You can simply head to the lands registry, give them the title deed number and do a land search. You can also do a land search online.
This land search will tell you who truly owns the land, its size and if there are any issues like disputes or bills left unpaid.
Scrutinize the details on the title deed
A genuine title deed kenya has all the right information like where the land is, how big it is and who the owner is. Make sure everything looks good and there are no funny changes to the document. Also, the Chief land registrar or an official from their team at the Ministry has to sign off on the deal. If the signature is missing or looks fishy, that could be a red flag.
Cross-check survey maps
These maps show you exactly where the land is. If what’s on the map doesn’t match the title deed, you might have a problem. Make sure you get a good land surveyor to help you with this.
Tip: As a rule of thumb, when in doubt, bring in the right professionals to help you do this due diligence. For example, a good property lawyer in Kenya can make sure everything’s above board and that you’re not getting a raw deal as you buy land.
Below is a sample of genuine title deed in Kenya
Frequently Asked Questions About Genuine Title Deed in Kenya:
Can a title deed have two names?
Yes! If two or more people own the land together, like a couple or business partners, you’ll see multiple names on the deed.
What is the cost of title deed transfer in Kenya?
The cost of registering a title deed in Kenya often depends on aspects like the property’s size, location, and other factors. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere between Ksh 50,000 and Ksh 150,000 for the process.
Note: You can avoid incurring extra charges on title deed transfer by simply buying land from Fusion Estates where you’ll get an all inclusive purchase price that covers all the costs up to when you receive your genuine title deed kenya!
How to know a fake title deed in Kenya?
Generally speaking, a fake title deed will have inconsistencies in the details, such as the land size, location or owner’s name. So try to look out for mistakes in the land details or shady signatures. If anything seems off, get it checked out at the Ministry of Lands.
Can a title deed be canceled?
Yes, if someone shows that the land was grabbed dishonestly or if there are legal issues, the Ministry of Lands can cancel it.
How long does a title deed transfer take in Kenya?
On average, it’s a 30 to 90-day wait. It depends on how quickly you and the seller do their part and pay the necessary fees.
Wrapping up
Checking if a title deed is real is one way to protect yourself as you are buying land in Kenya. It ensures you’re dealing with the rightful owner of the property thus preventing potential disputes and fraud.
At Fusion Estates, we make the process of buying land in Kenya way easier and safe for you. We have amazing affordable title plots in the Nairobi Metropolitan areas like Kitengela, and Kikuyu, Kiambu, with a genuine title deed Kenya, issued after 90 days of purchase.
Just contact us at +254 723 97 97 97 or email at sales@fusiongroupafrica.com to buy affordable title plots in Kenya, today!
