Pricing your rental property correctly in Kenya can mean the difference between attracting quality tenants quickly and facing months of vacancy. Whether you own an apartment in Nairobi, a maisonette in Mombasa, or student housing in Eldoret, this step-by-step guide will help you set a competitive yet profitable rental price.

📊 5 Key Factors That Determine Rental Prices in Kenya
1. Location, Location, Location!!!
Prime areas (Kilimani, Westlands, Karen) command higher rents.

Upcoming neighborhoods (Ruaka, Kitengela, Syokimau) offer slightly lower but competitive rates.

Proximity to amenities (schools, malls, transport) increases value.

💡 Tip: Check platforms like Makao Spaces for average rents in your area.

2. Property Type & Size

💡 Adjust based on:

Furnishing status (furnished = +20-30% rent).

Parking availability (adds Ksh 2,000-5,000/month).

3. Market Demand & Seasonality
High-demand periods: January–March (relocations, new jobs).

Low-demand periods: April–June (fewer movers).

Student areas (e.g., South B, Roysambu) peak in August–September.

💡 Tip: Lower prices slightly in slow seasons to avoid long vacancies.

4. Condition & Amenities
Tenants pay more for:
✅ Security (gated community, CCTV, guards)
✅ Reliable utilities (backup water, solar power)
✅ Modern fittings (tiled floors, fitted kitchens)
✅ Extra perks (gym, pool, balcony)

🚫 What lowers value:

Poor maintenance (leaks, peeling paint).

No water/power backup.

5. Competing Listings
a) Do a competitor analysis:

b) Search similar properties on Makao Spaces and compare:

Rent price

Included utilities

Photos & descriptions

💡 Price 5-10% below competitors if you want faster occupancy.

💰 3 Pricing Strategies for Landlords
1. The "Market Rate" Approach
Set rent at the neighborhood average.

Best for: Stable, long-term tenants.

2. The "Discount" Strategy
Price 5-10% lower to attract tenants quickly.

Best for: New landlords or high-vacancy areas.

3. The "Premium" Strategy
Charge 10-20% more for luxury/unique features.

Best for: Furnished apartments, prime locations.

📉 How to Adjust if Your Property Isn’t Renting
If your property sits vacant for 1+ months:
✔ Lower rent by 5-10%
✔ Offer incentives (1 month free, waived deposit)
✔ Improve listing quality (better photos, video tour)

📝 Bonus: 3 Legal Considerations
1. Rent Control Laws: Some areas (like older Nairobi estates) have caps.

2. Lease Terms: Avoid illegal clauses (e.g., "no refundable deposit").

3. Receipts: Always issue payment receipts for accountability.

Need Help Pricing Your Property?
Makao Spaces offers free rental valuations for landlords. 📞 Contact us today!

#KenyaRentals #LandlordTips #PropertyInvestment #MakaoSpaces #RealEstateKenya

💬 Landlords: What’s your pricing strategy? Tenants: What makes a rental worth the price? Comment below! 👇