You have budgeted for the purchase price, only to discover that the money leaving your account is noticeably larger. Stamp duty, legal fees, registration charges and clearance certificates all sit between an accepted offer and a registered title, and they are worth understanding before you sign anything.
How much does conveyancing cost in Nairobi?
Advocates’ fees for a sale or purchase are typically calculated by reference to the value of the transaction, on the basis set out in the Advocates Remuneration Order. The fee covers drafting and negotiating the agreement, conducting searches, obtaining clearances, preparing and stamping the transfer, and attending to registration. Confirm the basis of the charge in writing at the outset, whether a fixed fee or a fee according to the Order.
What other costs come with a property transfer?
- Stamp duty on the transfer, assessed on the higher of the price paid or the market value ascertained for the parcel.
- Registration fees payable to the lands registry.
- Search fees and official copies of documents.
- Land Control Board consent fees where agricultural land is involved.
- Rates and rent clearance certificates, and settlement of any arrears, before completion.
- Costs of preparing and registering a mortgage or charge where the purchase is financed.
Why do two transactions rarely cost the same?
Value is the main driver, but the structure of the transaction matters as well. A purchase financed by a bank involves a charge in addition to the transfer. A sale by a company requires corporate resolutions and signatory documents, and an apartment purchase under the Sectional Properties Act, 2020 raises its own management and service charge questions. Each of these adds drafting work that a simple cash transfer does not involve.
How do you avoid surprises at completion?
Ask for a written estimate covering legal fees, stamp duty, registration and disbursements before you instruct anyone, and confirm which party bears each cost under the sale agreement. Stamp duty is payable by the buyer and is assessed through the Kenya Revenue Authority, whose guidance is published on kra.go.ke. CS Advocates LLP provides written fee estimates at the start of every conveyancing instruction; see our conveyancing practice and, where your purchase involves lending, our banking and securities practice.
For guidance on your specific situation, contact CS Advocates LLP, call, WhatsApp, or book a confidential consultation at our Westlands, Nairobi office.