The Ebarms Journal

Your premier source for Nairobi's luxury real estate trends, investment guides, and lifestyle insights.

Advantages of Buying and Off plan Property
General

Advantages of Buying and Off plan Property

15th August, 2024 By Ramogi Wickliffe Odhiambo

<p>Buying off-plan property, which refers to purchasing a property before it has been built, offers several advantages:</p> <p><strong>1. Lower Prices</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Early Bird Discounts</strong>: Developers often offer off-plan properties at lower prices to attract early buyers. As the project progresses, prices usually increase, providing potential capital appreciation before the property is even completed.</li> <li><strong>Lower Entry Cost</strong>: The initial deposit for off-plan properties can be lower than for completed properties, making it more accessible for buyers.</li> </ul> <p><strong>2. Customization Options</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Personalization</strong>: Buyers often have the opportunity to choose certain finishes, layouts, or other design elements, allowing for a more personalized living space.</li> </ul> <p><strong>3. Potential for Capital Appreciation</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Value Increase</strong>: If the market conditions are favorable, the value of the property can increase by the time it is completed, allowing buyers to benefit from capital appreciation.</li> </ul> <p><strong>4. Modern Specifications</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Newer Standards</strong>: Off-plan properties are built to the latest building standards and regulations, often featuring modern amenities, energy-efficient designs, and contemporary layouts.</li> </ul> <p><strong>5. Flexible Payment Plans</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Staggered Payments</strong>: Developers often offer payment plans that allow buyers to pay in installments over the course of the construction period, which can be easier to manage financially.</li> </ul> <p><strong>6. Potential Rental Income</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Investment Opportunity</strong>: Off-plan properties can be a good investment opportunity, especially in areas with strong rental demand. Buyers can potentially generate rental income once the property is completed.</li> </ul> <p><strong>7. Warranties and Guarantees</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Builder’s Guarantee</strong>: New properties often come with a warranty or guarantee period, covering defects or issues that may arise in the first few years of ownership.</li> </ul> <p><strong>8. Choice of Units</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Better Selection</strong>: Early buyers usually have a wider selection of units to choose from, including better views, preferred floor levels, and favorable positions within the development.</li> </ul> <p><strong>9. Market Growth Potential</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Emerging Areas</strong>: Off-plan properties are often located in up-and-coming areas or new developments, which can experience significant growth, providing additional upside potential.</li> </ul> <p><strong>10. Lower Maintenance Costs</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Brand New</strong>: Since the property is new, maintenance costs are typically lower compared to older properties, and there is less likelihood of needing major repairs or replacements in the initial years.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Considerations:</strong></p> <p>While there are many advantages, it's important to conduct thorough due diligence on the developer’s reputation, the project's location, and the overall market conditions to mitigate risks such as construction delays or market downturns.</p>

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Land Banking

Land Banking

20th August, 2024 By Ramogi Wickliffe Odhiambo

<p>Land banking refers to the practice of purchasing undeveloped or underdeveloped land with the intention of holding onto it for future use or sale. The idea behind land banking is that the value of the land will appreciate over time due to factors like urban expansion, infrastructure development, or changes in zoning laws, making it a profitable investment when sold or developed later.</p> <p>There are a few different ways land banking can be employed:</p> <ol> <li> <p><strong>Private Land Banking</strong>: Investors, companies, or individuals buy land, often in areas that are expected to grow, and hold onto it until its value increases.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Government or Public Land Banking</strong>: Governments or public entities might acquire land to control development, preserve it for future public use, or to influence the real estate market.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Speculative Land Banking</strong>: In this case, land is purchased in anticipation of future growth or development, often in areas that are not yet developed. The risks can be higher since the land might take a long time to appreciate or may not appreciate at all.</p> </li> </ol> <h3>Benefits and Risks</h3> <ul> <li> <p><strong>Benefits</strong>:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Potential for High Returns</strong>: If the land appreciates significantly, investors can sell it at a much higher price than what they paid.</li> <li><strong>Control Over Future Development</strong>: Especially for public entities, land banking can be a tool to guide urban development and preserve green spaces.</li> <li><strong>Diversification</strong>: Land is a tangible asset that can diversify an investment portfolio.</li> </ul> </li> <li> <p><strong>Risks</strong>:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Liquidity</strong>: Land can be difficult to sell quickly, making it a less liquid investment.</li> <li><strong>Market Fluctuations</strong>: The value of land can fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, and local real estate trends.</li> <li><strong>Holding Costs</strong>: While holding onto land, investors must cover costs like property taxes, maintenance, and insurance.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <p>Overall, land banking is a long-term investment strategy that requires patience and a good understanding of market trends.</p>

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Tenants  Rights

Tenants Rights

2nd October, 2024 By Wickliffe Ramogi

<p>Clients rights include</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

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Tenant Landlord Rights

Tenant Landlord Rights

7th October, 2024 By Wickliffe Ramogi

<p>Tenant rights are the legal protections and responsibilities that renters (tenants) have in relation to their landlords. These rights vary depending on the country, state, or region, but generally, they cover the following areas:</p> <p><strong>1. Right to a Safe and Habitable Home</strong></p> <ul> <li>Landlords are typically required to provide safe, clean, and habitable living conditions. This includes maintaining essential services like heating, water, electricity, and addressing issues like pests, mold, or structural problems.</li> </ul> <p><strong>2. Right to Privacy</strong></p> <ul> <li>Landlords cannot enter the tenant's rental unit without proper notice, except in emergencies. The notice period can vary but is often around 24 hours. Entry is usually allowed for inspections, repairs, or showing the property to prospective tenants or buyers.</li> </ul> <p><strong>3. Protection from Discrimination</strong></p> <ul> <li>Under various anti-discrimination laws, such as the U.S. <strong>Fair Housing Act</strong>, tenants cannot be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin. Many places also extend this to sexual orientation, gender identity, and other protected classes.</li> </ul> <p><strong>4. Fair Rent</strong></p> <ul> <li>Tenants have the right to be charged a fair and reasonable rent, and in many areas, there are rent control or rent stabilization laws that limit the amount a landlord can increase rent by annually.</li> </ul> <p><strong>5. Security Deposit Protections</strong></p> <ul> <li>Most regions require that security deposits be returned within a certain time frame after a tenant moves out, minus deductions for damages or unpaid rent. Landlords must provide an itemized list of any deductions. In some areas, there are limits on how much a landlord can charge for a deposit.</li> </ul> <p><strong>6. Right to Repairs</strong></p> <ul> <li>If repairs are needed to maintain a habitable living environment, tenants have the right to request those repairs. In some cases, if the landlord doesn’t make necessary repairs, tenants may be able to withhold rent or pay for the repairs and deduct the cost from their rent.</li> </ul> <p><strong>7. Protection from Retaliation</strong></p> <ul> <li>If a tenant exercises their rights, such as reporting a health or safety violation, the landlord is usually prohibited from retaliating against the tenant. This includes actions like raising rent, evicting the tenant, or reducing services.</li> </ul> <p><strong>8. Right to Notice Before Eviction</strong></p> <ul> <li>In most places, a landlord cannot evict a tenant without cause or without proper notice. Typically, the landlord must give written notice before initiating an eviction process. The amount of notice required depends on the circumstances (e.g., non-payment of rent vs. violating the lease terms).</li> </ul> <p><strong>9. Right to Contest Eviction</strong></p> <ul> <li>Tenants have the right to contest an eviction in court. If the eviction is being done improperly or without valid reason, tenants can argue their case before a judge.</li> </ul> <p><strong>10. Lease Agreement Rights</strong></p> <ul> <li>The lease is a legally binding document that outlines the tenant’s and landlord’s responsibilities. Both parties must abide by its terms. Any illegal terms or violations of tenant rights in a lease may be voidable by law.</li> </ul> <p><strong>11. Rent Payment Grace Period</strong></p> <ul> <li>Some jurisdictions offer a grace period for paying rent. This means that even if a tenant is late on rent, they might have a few extra days to pay without facing a late fee or eviction.</li> </ul> <p><strong>12. Quiet Enjoyment</strong></p> <ul> <li>Tenants have the right to enjoy their living space without unreasonable disturbances from the landlord or other tenants. This right protects tenants from harassment or unnecessary disruption.</li> </ul> <p><strong>13. Right to Sublease</strong></p> <ul> <li>In some cases, tenants may have the right to sublet their rental unit to another person, though this may require landlord approval depending on the lease terms and local laws.</li> </ul> <p><strong>14. Rent Control and Stabilization</strong></p> <ul> <li>In certain cities or regions, rent control or rent stabilization laws protect tenants from excessive rent increases by capping the amount rent can be raised each year.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Tenant Responsibilities</strong></p> <ul> <li>Tenants generally have responsibilities, such as paying rent on time, following the terms of the lease, and keeping the rental unit in good condition. They must avoid causing damage or creating health hazards.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Resources for Tenants</strong></p> <ul> <li>Tenants can often seek assistance from local housing authorities, tenant unions, or legal aid organizations if they feel their rights are being violated.</li> </ul> <p>Understanding your rights as a tenant can help you navigate disputes with your landlord and ensure a fair and equitable rental experience. Do you need information on a specific location’s tenant rights?</p> <p> </p>

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Affordable Housing Programme -Sale of houses in Ruiru and Thika , Kiambu County
Property Consultations

Affordable Housing Programme -Sale of houses in Ruiru and Thika , Kiambu County

23rd October, 2024 By Wickliffe Ramogi

<p><strong>Affordable Housing in Ruiru and Thika &ndash; Kiambu County</strong></p> <p>Are you a civil servant of a member of the police force?</p> <p>Do you want to own a home under the affordable housing scheme?</p> <p>Do you want a mortgage or rent to own?</p> <p>Are you interested in 1 ,2 and 3 Bedroom and 3 Master ensuite topologies?</p> <p>Available estates are :</p> <ul> <li>Kings Boma Estate</li> <li>Thika Orchird estate</li> </ul> <p>Site visit date :25th to Sunday 27thOctober 2024</p> <p>Venue Kings: Orchird Thika</p> <p>Please visit the website &nbsp;<a href="http://www.ebarmshomes.co.ke">www.ebarmshomes.co.ke</a> &nbsp;under the newsletter section &nbsp;for more information.</p> <p>Deposit Payment through USSD Codes *832&nbsp;<strong>#</strong>&nbsp;on E citizen</p> <p>House registration on Boma yangu USSD Codes *222&nbsp;<strong>#</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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