Delays in Title Deed Issuance Stall Kenya’s Housing Projects and Investment

Delays in issuing title deeds are disrupting housing projects across Kenya and discouraging both local and foreign investment, according to developers and real estate professionals.

Despite recent progress in digitising land registries, stakeholders say that inefficiencies within land administration continue to slow down approval processes. Turnaround times for title deed issuance now often stretch into several months, well beyond the expected timeframe. 

Developers argue that these delays are hurting investor confidence and making it harder to meet the country's growing demand for housing. Gerald Ndung’u, a project manager at Herencia, a gated community development, said the digital reforms have improved transparency but have not resolved core administrative challenges. 

“A process that should take weeks sometimes takes months, and this frustrates investors,” he noted.

Slow documentation not only frustrates stakeholders but also causes significant financial setbacks. Project timelines are delayed, costs increase, and potential buyers may be discouraged from making commitments. 

Developers stress that a reliable and efficient land management system is critical for the overall stability and growth of the property market. In addition to bureaucratic delays, poor infrastructure continues to limit property development in many rural and peri-urban areas. 

Weak road networks, inconsistent utility services, and lack of public safety infrastructure remain major barriers. Ndung’u highlighted that basic amenities such as access roads and street lighting influence purchasing decisions, saying, “People will only invest where they feel safe and connected.”

Despite these challenges, the sector showed improved activity in the final quarter of the year. Derrick Samambo, a property consultant, attributed this to rising interest from Kenyans in the diaspora, who are increasingly investing in real estate and construction projects. However, he warned that this growth is vulnerable and may slow if infrastructure and public services are not improved.

“We are seeing encouraging demand from the diaspora market. However, this momentum could easily slow down if critical enablers such as reliable power, water connections, and road networks are not prioritised,” Samambo said.

Stakeholders also emphasised the need to expand access to affordable mortgage financing. Ongoing efforts to support homeownership through flexible loan options have helped more Kenyans move from renting to owning. Samambo added that promoting financial discipline and early investment, particularly among younger generations, could further drive long-term growth.

“With accessible mortgages and a culture of disciplined saving, we can empower young people to own homes much earlier in life,” he said.