The Future of the Real Estate Market in Kenya In recent years the real estate market in East Africa, and by extension Kenya, has witnessed a boom. However, it is unclear in the minds of politicians, investors, financiers and developers whether this exponential growth in the sector is actually a blip or a bubble. Key indicators that this is a boom and that it is actually here to stay are highlighted in this article. First of all, it is a fact that the growth of the real estate market in Kenya is demand generated. This comes as the country's middle class, a group that is able to comfortably service their mortgages, is expanding and with this expansion comes an increase in demand for real estate. Because of their purchasing power, this class of real estate enthusiasts wants and demands great infrastructure, from well-designed and excellently finished properties to safe and secure neighborhoods, and they are willing and able to pay premium prices for their tastes . Secondly, it is worth noting that Kenya's GDP growth over the last five years stands at 4.5% and this growth trajectory is expected to be sustained or even surpassed thanks to massive investments in infrastructure and the opening up of East African Community market, the multiplier effect of which is that both local and foreign investors will find this market increasingly attractive. The East African leader in this real estate sector is Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. In an Economist publication titled “Hot Spots 2025: Benchmarking the Future Competitiveness of Cities,” Nairobi is ranked fifth in Africa for its appeal as a magnet for capital, business and talent. This report confirms Nairobi's position as the largest industrial, financial and investment hub in the region. This stature for Nairobi... half the paper... consumers thanks to the rationalization of delivery costs. Another driver of the property boom is the low level of property consumption in the country, with home ownership in Kenya currently at 16% this represents a huge and untapped market. At the other end is the office sector, which remains largely a buyer's market due to the oversupply of space, especially in Nairobi. However, offices outside the central business district are relatively more attractive due to ample parking and avoidance of traffic congestion. According to highlights from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics Economic Survey, the real estate sector in 2013 recorded a growth of 21.9% in the fiscal year 2012/2013. The construction sector has also seen the highest growth in employment rate due to, among other factors, continued expansive road construction by the government and private construction projects.
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