Real estate firm HassConsult’s most recent data unveils a significant rebound in land prices within Nairobi’s high-end suburbs, signaling an economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. This surge encompasses mid- to high-end estates and mirrors growth rates reminiscent of the pre-pandemic era.

The data discloses a 0.39 percent increase in average land prices for these suburbs during the third quarter of this year, marking the highest growth since Q4 2019. In comparison to the same period last year, a more pronounced upward trend emerges with a substantial increment of 0.83 percent.

The enforcement of the 1.5 percent housing levy on workers’ earnings by the Ruto administration coincides with the observed recovery. Aimed at addressing the housing deficit, this move appears to stimulate development activity, especially in low-end estates.

HassConsult’s research reveals that the resurgence of post-Covid development significantly contributes to land price recovery. In the third quarter—a period under scrutiny in their survey of 18 suburbs—only three experienced a decline in land prices; this highlights an optimistic change in market dynamics.

Lang’ata, Loresho, and Spring Valley notably lead this recovery. These areas have observed double-digit growth rates from the year until September—a performance that surpasses an average inflation rate of 8.34 percent. Particularly standing out is Lang’ata with a notable increase of 12.1 percent; this surge can be attributed to its potential for higher density development, its convenient proximity to major economic nodes—combined with comparatively lower per-acre land prices when compared to nearby suburbs.

Kileleshwa, Donholm, and Riverside—some suburbs in particular, though experiencing marginal declines in land prices amidst an overall positive trend—serve as exceptions rather than the rule. This suggests a sweeping optimistic sentiment pervading the real estate market.

The data intriguingly illuminates the influence of enhanced infrastructure on land prices. Satellite towns, enjoying improved links to cities and amenities such as hospitals and schools, are witnessing a spike in demand. Notably among these surveyed satellite towns, Ongata Rongai demonstrated robust growth with an 8.2 percent surge in land prices due to anticipated road infrastructural enhancements.

Nairobi’s real estate market, despite grappling with pandemic-induced challenges, exhibits a promising recovery: it has shifted focus from the city center to satellite towns. This reorientation—combined with heightened development activity—illustrates Kenya’s real estate landscape as resilient and adaptable; furthermore, this evolution of the market engenders cautious optimism among stakeholders regarding sustained sector growth.