Tips for expats who want to live in Nairobi

I have been posted to Nairobi to oversee a five-year mass housing project in Nairobi from the first quarter of 2024. I am contemplating whether to rent a house or an apartment since I will be alone in the capital city with occasional visits by my wife and two children. What should I consider to settle on either a house or an apartment in Nairobi?

Harry, UK

Before settling on renting a house within an own gated compound or an apartment within a high-rise building, there are important points to consider apart from the cost.

For instance, location. Many expatriates in Nairobi prefer to work nearer where they stay towards avoiding the traffic menace and also be assured of good security. A perfect location will also ensure that you are near facilities like modern malls or hospitals.

Some expatriates adore rearing pets which may not be allowed in some apartments in upscale areas with either policies or restrictive covenants on pets. Therefore, a house would guarantee you the freedom of rearing pets or hosting parties without being the subject of the apartment WhatsApp Group.

There are also some areas in Nairobi with water shortages that would force you to buy a water pump. However, some apartments have boreholes which guarantee efficient supply.

Having a good rapport with the landlord is also encouraging before either signing a lease/tenancy agreement or making a down payment since you may want some adjustments. For instance, you may want the house or apartment repainted or repaired to suit your taste before moving in.

It is also important to inspect the property before moving in – since you are abroad, you may request high-resolution photos, inside and outside.

There are definitely advantages and disadvantages of renting both a house and an apartment – your preference will have the last word.

For instance, renting a house within its own compound guarantees space complete with its own swimming pool, freedom to rear pets and also have a kitchen garden. On the flipside, you will more likely pay more.

Apartments also have their advantages in that they may be slightly cheaper as some utility bills and maintenance costs are shared with neighbours. 

However, apartments are communal and definitely have strict rules to ensure ‘sanity’ reigns – no noisy house parties, parking in non-designated areas or hooting at the gates! There are also apartments that forbid families with children from living in them.

It is also important to note that there are some apartments that do not have secluded areas for children to play.

-       Harold Ayodo is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya