How Easy Is It to Get a Tenant When You Buy an Apartment in Nairobi, Kenya?
The Nairobi real estate market continues to attract investors looking for consistent rental income, strong capital appreciation, and long-term security. A common question many buyers especially Kenyans in the diaspora ask is: “How easy is it to get a tenant after buying an apartment in Nairobi?”
The short answer: It is generally easy, provided you invest in the right location, the right unit type and a well-managed property.
Below is a full breakdown of what determines tenant demand in Nairobi and how you can maximise your occupancy rates.
Why Nairobi Is One of East Africa’s Strongest Rental Markets
Nairobi’s continuous growth creates a stable foundation for rental demand. The city remains a hub for:
- International organisations and multinational companies
- Growing middle-income households
- University and college populations
- Increased rural-urban migration
- Demand from expatriates and digital nomads
Best Neighborhoods for High Tenant Demand
While demand exists across Nairobi, certain neighbourhoods offer faster tenant turnover and more consistent occupancy. These include:
1. Westlands
A commercial and entertainment hub with strong demand from young professionals and expatriates.
Great for: Furnished & unfurnished 1–2 bedroom apartments.
Relevant property listings:
- Visit Buy Houses and Apartments on Sarabi Realty Group:
https://sarabirealtygroup.co.ke/property-for-sale/
2. Kilimani
Highly preferred by working professionals due to its proximity to CBD, Westlands, Upper Hill, and major malls.
Great for: Airbnb units, serviced apartments, and long-term rentals.
3. Kileleshwa
A quieter residential area with increasing demand from families and professionals seeking modern apartments and serene neighborhoods.
4. Lavington
Upscale and peaceful, with strong demand for larger units like 2–3 bedroom apartments for families and executives.
If you’re buying an apartment in any of these neighborhoods, you can expect a relatively easy time securing tenants, especially if the property has modern finishes, good security and reliable utilities.
Factors That Determine How Fast You Get a Tenant
1. Type and Size of the Apartment
- 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom units are easiest to rent out in Nairobi.
- Studio apartments perform well in Westlands, Kilimani, and near universities.
2. Pricing
Setting competitive rent significantly speeds up tenant acquisition. Overpricing is one of the biggest reasons for longer vacancy periods.
3. Amenities
Tenants look for:
- Borehole and backup water
- Generator
- Lifts
- Parking
- Security
- Modern finishes
- Proximity to shopping centres and offices
4. Professional Property Management
When your apartment is marketed professionally, cleaned, and maintained, it attracts tenants much faster.
Sarabi Realty Group offers trusted guidance for both local and diaspora investors.
If you’re in the diaspora, explore our guide:
Buy Houses & Apartments in Nairobi From Abroad
https://sarabirealtygroup.co.ke/buy-houses-and-apartment-for-sale-in-nairobi-from-abroad-trusted-secure-tailored-for-the-kenyan-diaspora/
Expected Time to Get a Tenant in Nairobi
If your apartment is located in a high-demand neighborhood and priced correctly, you can expect tenants within:
- 1–2 weeks for 1 and 2-bedroom units
- 2-4 weeks for 3 – 5bedroom apartments
- Furnished units will attract higher rent but attract seasonal demand depending on location
Who Are Your Potential Tenants?
Depending on the neighbourhood, your apartment may attract:
- Young professionals
- Corporate employees
- Expatriates
- University students
- Digital nomads (especially in Airbnb markets)
- Families
This diversity ensures a steady stream of potential tenants throughout the year.
Tips to Ensure Your Apartment Rents Out Quickly
- Invest in modern, high-demand areas such as Kilimani, Kileleshwa, Westlands, or Lavington.
- Ensure the building has high-quality amenities.
- Use professional listing photography.
- Furnish your unit if targeting corporate or Airbnb markets.
- Hire a reliable property management service to reduce vacancy time.
Should You Buy an Apartment for Rental Income in Nairobi?
Yes—if your goal is predictable monthly income, Nairobi’s rental market is one of the most resilient in Africa. Apartments in the right locations rarely stay vacant for long, and capital appreciation remains strong.
Sarabi Realty Group helps buyers (including Kenyans abroad) find high-demand, high-rental-return apartments in the best neighbourhoods.
Explore current listings:
Apartments for Sale in Nairobi
https://sarabirealtygroup.co.ke/property-for-sale/