Kenyans Share Best Times To Buy Land As Rains Submerge Houses, Plots: "Suitability Of A Location"

• Kenyans are expressing heightened concerns about purchasing land in Nairobi and other urban areas due to heavy rains causing floods
• Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions on the importance of assessing drainage systems to avoid investing in flood-prone areas
• Gideon Mburugu, a real estate agent with Afri Connect Real Estate (ACRE), advised on factors to consider when assessing flood risks in an interview with TUKO.co.ke

Elijah Ntongai, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, has more than three years of financial, business, and technology research expertise, providing insights into Kenyan and global trends.

Kenyans have experienced heightened concerns about buying land in Nairobi and other urban areas following the heavy rains that have led to floods.

Many have taken to social media to highlight the need to assess drainage and ensure they do not buy and build in parts that flood after heavy rains.

Impact of floods on real estate business

Some have argued that the rainy season is the best time to purchase land because it allows customers to assess an area's drainage system and vulnerability to floods.

These concerns have been heightened by videos of various apartments and houses submerged in flood waters.

What to consider when buying land or apartment

Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, Gideon Mburugu, a real estate agent with Afri Connect Real Estate (ACRE), said that Kenyans should research an area extensively before buying land or a house.

Mburugu agreed with the sentiments of many Kenyans, stating that determining the suitability of a location for purchasing land or an apartment, especially concerning flood risk, involves a multi-faceted approach.

"Firstly, observing the area during the rainy season provides firsthand insight into the flood risks . Additionally, conducting thorough online research to analyse historical flooding data can offer valuable information. Leveraging your network of friends and acquaintances to gather local insights about past flooding incidents can further enhance your understanding of the area's flood risk. By combining these methods, you can make a well-informed decision about the suitability of a location for your investment," Mburugu told TUKO.co.ke in an exclusive interview.

The realtor further advised Kenyans to avoid purchasing property in flat-lying areas without proper drainage plans or in over-congested estates where infrastructure may be inadequate to handle water flow during heavy rains.

He also emphasised the need to consult professionals such as surveyors and engineers on the drainage and other flood risk factors

"Seeking professional guidance is another essential step in making an informed decision. Consulting with a qualified surveyor, free from developer influence, is invaluable. A professional surveyor will advise against purchasing property in riparian areas prone to flooding. Furthermore, architects and engineers can assess the adequacy of drainage systems in both land and existing structures," Mburugu advised.

Reactions from Kenyans

@JJonmwangi said:

"Weeeh! Looks like a bad dream for the home buyers, how do you reconcile your millions and the river between?"

@JuliusK99588830 said:

"I think this is the best time to buy an apartment."

@KibetOscar said:

"The power of nature is inescapable. As we witness the intense flooding affecting our prime business zones, we are reminded of the resilience we possess as Kenyans. In difficult times like these, solidarity and unity are our strongest assets. Let's share, support, and stand."

Other stories related to floods in Nairobi

• Posh Safaricom Sacco houses marooned by floods after Athi River breaks its banks.
• Kenya Railways resumes train services in 4 Nairobi routes and gives an update on SGR services.
• Photos and videos capturing Nairobi's flooding situation.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.