Build-to-Rent Developments and What They Offer Tenants

Nairobi's average house price has reached KES 15 million, making it increasingly difficult for buyers to enter the market, but a new trend is emerging: build-to-rent developments, which are specifically designed for renters and offer a range of amenities and services.

This matters now because the city's population is growing rapidly, with many young professionals and families looking for affordable and convenient housing options. As the demand for rental properties continues to rise, build-to-rent developments are filling a crucial gap in the market, providing tenants with a unique set of benefits and amenities that are not typically found in traditional rental properties. With the Westlands and Lavington areas commanding premium prices, other neighbourhoods like Kileleshwa and Kilimani are becoming increasingly popular, and build-to-rent developments are popping up in these areas to meet the demand.

In Nairobi, companies like Cytonn Real Estate and HassConsult are leading the charge in build-to-rent developments, with projects like the Alma in Ruaka and the Kilimani Estate offering tenants a range of amenities, including swimming pools, gyms, and community spaces. These developments are not only providing affordable housing options but also creating vibrant communities in areas like Ngong Road and Dennis Pritt Road. The growth corridors of Ruaka and Syokimau are also seeing a surge in build-to-rent developments, with many projects underway along the Northern Bypass and the Eastern Bypass.

What Do the Numbers Say?

According to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Nairobi is around KES 80,000 per month, with prices in areas like Westlands and Lavington reaching as high as KES 150,000 per month. However, build-to-rent developments are offering competitive pricing, with some projects starting from as low as KES 60,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. As of June 2026, there are over 10 build-to-rent developments underway in Nairobi, with a total of over 5,000 units expected to come online in the next two years.

So what happens next for tenants looking to take advantage of build-to-rent developments? Experts advise renters to do their research and look for developments that offer a range of amenities and services, as well as flexible lease terms and competitive pricing. With the market expected to continue growing, tenants should also be prepared to act quickly when they find a property that meets their needs. As the build-to-rent sector continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it shapes the future of Nairobi's housing market and what benefits it will bring to tenants in the city.