When considering purchasing a house, one of the questions that are floated is “what are the best places to live in Nairobi?” We all strive for finer things in life, how much more is the house we strive to live in?
The term ‘prime’ in real estate refers to the things that make a place desirable. They vary from one area to another. However, there are constant factors to consider when purchasing a property.
Location is one of the major things to consider when purchasing a house; it’s the one thing you cannot change.
In fact, it’s from the location that all the other factors that make a place a desirable residential area find their hold.
So, let’s delve into some of the factors that influence the best places to live in Nairobi.
1. Neighborhood
Although the neighborhood you ultimately settle for is a personal choice, there are key qualifications to look out for before you settle in. Factors such as amenities, good infrastructure, appearance, etc.
In terms of appearance, look at the market: how long do houses in that neighborhood stay before they get a buyer? If the turnover is fast, it means the neighborhood gets traction and most people find it desirable.
This you do by looking at some of the major real estate companies such as Pam Golding Properties KenyaKnight Frank Kenya, Hass Consult, and Villa Care among others.
Also, you can visit the location and investigate from the residents. Ask how long houses stay before getting a buyer or search online for the location and how different buyers have commented on the houses within the vicinity.
Another way to judge a neighborhood as good is by the amenities. People are always looking for convenience. A place that has restaurants, malls, grocery stores, good schools, etc. Before deciding a location is one of the best places to live in Nairobi, scout the area whether it has these facilities.
Also, be on the lookout for either a good public or private school whether you have children or not. A reputable school in the neighborhood boosts the value of the property and you’re assured of good returns on the property should you want to sell it.
2. Safety
We don’t want to live in a place where we must turn our heads to look at who’s behind us. A good location is one in which you’re security is guaranteed. Where you will have little to no worry. It’s important to be cautious and not leave anything to chance.
Avoid purchasing property in an area that has a high crime rate. You may consider a property located within a gated community. Areas that border informal settlements have more security challenges than rural areas and other areas without an informal setup. Informal settlements would be areas that have slums ie. Mathare and its environs.
Apart from security, it’s important to evaluate if the property is located within a low-lying area where it’s highly prone to flooding.
3. Environment
We are a sum total of our environment and its influence over our lives is so subtle that we can’t see its effects on our lives. It’s similar to how the earth rotates, but we can hardly feel the rotation.
When choosing a location, consider a place where the environment is eco-friendly. Look at the community’s environment and avoid living in places that are near factories, polluted water bodies, and high-traffic roads. Avoid compromising your safety and overall well-being.
Also, find out the culture of the community, are their roads often cleaned, and how do they manage waste? You want to ensure you live in an environment that is conducive.
4. Business opportunities
For entrepreneurs and small business owners, your location matters especially if you’re looking to live in a place that can help launch your business. Consider your business type and the target audience and consider if the location is ideal for the type of business you want.
For example, a business that supplies products wholesale to different organizations. The best place to live in Nairobi would be one that allows for easy entry of products, is in close proximity to your main buyers, and helps you cut down on costs such as transport.
5. Accessibility
One of the factors that most influence a buyer to purchase a property is the proximity to the things that matter most to them. Examples are, how far the location is from their place of work, the commute time, how traffic is during rush hour, and if there are alternative routes to the CBD.
Commuting is a major part of our everyday lives, therefore, consider a property near the city’s major transit routes This makes the location easily accessible and convenient for you.
Also, consider a place that would save you commute time if you’re using public transportation or one that would save you on fuel.
6. Development
It’s not the present amenities that make a location desirable, but also the future ones as well. Look for an area that has potential for development. I.e., new schools, roads, and the building of other amenities such as a stadium, highly improve the value of property within the location.
An example would be Ngong town, which has gained traction through the massive infrastructure growth of the town and the development of residential areas by Nairobians. Because Ngong town offers affordable land with high returns, a majority of middle-class income earners have moved and constructed residential houses in the area causing traction to the location.
The development of the town has made it to become a desirable residential area for many.
7. Property value
If you’re planning to sell a house in the future, buying a house in a good location will provide security on the valuation of the property. According to statistics by Cytonn Annual Markets Review in 2021, land and properties in the Nairobi Metropolitan area appreciated by 2.8%.
If you’re planning to sell a house in the future, buying a house in a good location will provide security on the valuation of the property.
Conclusion’
Purchasing a house is a lifetime investment and you have to ensure you do it right. We cannot over-emphasize the need to purchase a property in a desirable location. As you consider this, have the future in view as this will help guide you on the right location to settle for.
Remember, you can change how the house looks, but you cannot change its location. Finding the best places to live in Nairobi is key to the dream house of your choice.
Therefore, ensure it’s a locality that would put a smile on your face. Ensure it’s easily accessible, has a good neighborhood, it’s guaranteed safety, and has pregnant potential for development.
A prime location can be compared to Egypt where even during the time of drought, Isaac was able to get food plenty enough through agriculture. Similarly, with the drought facing the nations, having property where you can grow your own food will become highly valuable in the near future.
Here’s a property for sale in a prime location where you can take advantage of its backyard and plant crops to shield you against the drought.
Leave a Reply