How Many Years Are Remaining on the Lease?

A Complete Guide for Buying Leasehold Property in Watamu, Malindi, Kilifi & Mombasa

If you are planning to buy property on the Kenyan coast — especially in Watamu, Malindi, Kilifi, or Mombasa — one of the most important questions you must ask is:

“How many years are remaining on the lease?”

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by both Kenyan and international buyers, and it is extremely important because it affects property value, ownership security, financing, and resale value.

This guide explains everything in simple terms.

What Is Leasehold Property in Kenya?

Most property on the Kenyan coast is leasehold, not freehold.

Leasehold means:

• You own the property for a specific number of years.
• The land is owned by the government or original freehold owner.
• When the lease expires, it must be renewed.

On the Kenyan coast, most leases are:

• 99-year leases
• 50-year leases
• 33-year leases (older properties)
• 25-year leases (rare, but exists in old titles)

Why Remaining Lease Years Are Very Important

The number of years left on the lease directly affects:

Rule

The shorter the lease, the lower the property value.

This is why two identical villas near the beach can have very different prices — the lease years remaining may be different.

Can You Renew a Leasehold Title in Kenya?

Yes. Leasehold titles in Kenya can be renewed, usually for another 50 or 99 years, depending on the property and location.

Lease renewal is done through:

• Ministry of Lands
• Land Commission
• Local County Government
• Land Control Board (in some cases)

A professional real estate agency and lawyer will help with this process.

Important Tip for Buyers

Before buying any property, always ask for:

1. Copy of the Title Deed
2. Lease document
3. Official Search from Lands Office
4. Confirmation of:

• Lease start date
• Lease expiry date
• Remaining years

Never rely on verbal information — always verify documents.

Example

Let’s say a lease started in 1995 for 99 years.

Expiry year:
1995 + 99 = 2094

Remaining lease in 2025:
2094 – 2025 = 69 years remaining

This is still considered a good lease.

Should You Buy Property With 40–50 Years Remaining?

Yes, if:

• The price is good
• The property is in a prime area (Watamu beach, Marine Park, Kilifi creek, Nyali, Diani)
• The lease can be renewed
• You are buying for lifestyle or rental income

Many older villas in Watamu and Malindi have 40–60 years remaining and are still very good investments if properly priced.

Leasehold vs Freehold on the Kenyan Coast

Foreigners cannot own freehold land, but they can own leasehold property, which is why leasehold is very common for international buyers.

Final Advice for Buyers

If you are buying property in Watamu, Malindi, Kilifi, Mombasa, or Diani, always remember:

Price + Location + Remaining Lease Years = True Property Value

Many buyers only look at the house and forget to check the lease — this is a mistake.

Always work with a professional real estate agency that helps you verify:

• Title deed
• Lease years
• Ownership
• Transfer process
• Property value
• Rental potential

This ensures your investment is safe, legal, and profitable.

FAQ – Leasehold Property in Kenya