Why this matters

Rent covers today’s shelter but builds no equity. In Nairobi’s mid-market, demand keeps rents firm while well-located homes appreciate steadily. The goal is not to stop renting overnight, but to overlap rent with a focused path to ownership, then switch your monthly outlay from expense to asset.

Here`s how you can do that.

Step 1: Decide your path to ownership

Choose the route that matches your income rhythm:

• Developer installments: Spread payments across construction milestones. Ideal for Keza Riruta buyers bridging the period to September handover and beyond.
  
• Mortgage with a small deposit: Lock a unit, then finance the balance over time.
  
• SACCO-supported financing: Use consistent savings and favorable rates to increase eligibility.
  
• Diaspora route: Verify remotely, reserve a unit, and pay via vetted channels.
  

Step 2: Build a realistic overlap budget

Create a 6–18 month “overlap plan” where you fund two priorities: rent and deposit or installments. Practical levers:

• Automate savings: Treat the future mortgage/installment like a bill.
  
• Trim recurring costs: Reallocate a set amount monthly to your deposit pot.
  
• Annual lump sums: Channel bonuses, tax refunds, or side income to accelerate.
  

Step 3: Strengthen your file before you apply

• Credit hygiene: Avoid new consumer debt and pay all bills on time.
  
• Document stability: Three to six months of payslips and bank statements help.
  
• Proof of savings: Show steady contributions to a SACCO or dedicated account.
  
• Buffer fund: Target two to three months of total expenses to keep stress low during the overlap.
  

Step 4: Choose a developer that de-risks your journey

Work with a developer known for delivery, transparent pricing, and structured support. For Keza Riruta by Mi Vida, buyers benefit from:

• Clear handover timelines for Phase 1 in September.
  
• Straightforward paperwork aligned to financing partners.
  
• Site access for due diligence and progress checks.
  

Step 5: Do the math and commit

A simple framework:

1. Identify the unit and price range that keeps post-purchase monthly costs near your current rent level.
   
2. Decide what portion of your rent you can “mirror” into deposits or installments each month.
   
3. Use a conservative appreciation and rental yield assumption to avoid over-optimism.
   
4. Lock in your plan and automate payments.
   

Step 6: Manage risk on the way to keys

• Rate risk: If taking a mortgage, explore fixed or capped-rate options if available.
  
• Vacancy risk (for investors): Buy in demand corridors and budget for one empty month per year.
  
• Income shocks: Keep your buffer and consider income protection if offered.
  

What a successful overlap looks like

• You rent for 9–12 more months while steadily paying installments or building the deposit.
  
• Your documentation stays clean and organized.
  
• By handover or completion, you transition from rent to an installment or mortgage that mirrors your old rent range—only now it builds equity.
  

Explore Your Options

Ready to turn rent into an asset? Book a Keza Riruta viewing and get a tailored overlap plan that fits your income and timeline.