Managing property can be time-consuming and complex—especially if you own multiple units or are an overseas investor. That’s where real estate management companies in Kenya come in.
These firms offer comprehensive services including:
- Tenant screening
- Rent collection
- Maintenance and repairs
- Legal compliance
- Financial reporting
Whether you’re a local landlord or an expatriate investor, partnering with a reputable management company ensures your property remains well-maintained and profitable.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- What real estate management companies do
- Top property management firms in Kenya
- How to choose the right one
- And tips for maximizing returns
Let’s dive in!
📌 What Do Real Estate Management Companies Do?
Real estate management companies act as third-party administrators of property assets. Their role includes:
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Tenant Relations | Finding, vetting, and managing tenants |
| Rent Collection | Collecting monthly payments and enforcing contracts |
| Property Maintenance | Handling repairs, cleaning, and security |
| Financial Reporting | Providing monthly income and expense statements |
| Legal Compliance | Ensuring adherence to Kenyan housing laws and lease agreements |
📌 Many companies also offer digital dashboards for remote property monitoring.
🔝 Top Real Estate Management Companies in Kenya
Here are some of the most reputable and experienced property management firms currently operating in Kenya:
| Company | Headquarters | Key Services | Specialization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jengo Property Management | Nairobi | Full-service property management | Residential & commercial |
| Knight Frank Kenya | Nairobi | Asset management, tenant services, legal advisory | High-end residential & corporate clients |
| Savills Kenya | Nairobi | Institutional-grade property oversight | Commercial buildings, malls |
| Britam Properties | Nairobi | In-house asset management | Office towers and institutional portfolios |
| Sameer Africa | Nairobi | Luxury villa management, tenant services | Gated communities and Karen estates |
| Garden City Group (Centum) | Nairobi | Retail and residential property management | Malls, mixed-use developments |
| Prestige Group | Nairobi | Rental administration, property upkeep | Mid-to-high-end apartments |
| Zameen Africa Property Management | Nairobi | Digital property oversight | Remote landlords and expatriates |
| Austin-Holman & Associates | Nairobi | Leasing, valuation, and property supervision | Residential and office spaces |
| EstatePro Kenya Ltd | Nairobi | Outsourced property management | Multi-unit owners and investors |
🧭 How to Choose the Right Property Management Company
Selecting the best firm depends on your needs and expectations. Here’s how to make the right choice:
1. Check Licensing and Certification
Ensure the company works with ISK-certified professionals and complies with land and housing regulations.
2. Read Reviews and Testimonials
Look up client feedback on Google, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
3. Ask About Experience
Choose a company with at least 5 years of experience and a proven track record.
4. Evaluate Fees and Transparency
Most firms charge between 5% and 10% of monthly rent , plus service fees.
5. Request a Sample Report
Review how they handle communication, financials, and tenant issues.
📌 Tip: Ask for references from other property owners they manage.
📊 Comparison Table: Leading Property Management Firms
| Company | Monthly Fee | Minimum Units Managed | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jengo Property Management | 7% – 10% | 1 unit | Transparent reporting, digital access |
| Knight Frank Kenya | 5% – 8% | 2+ units | Premium service for high-value homes |
| Savills Kenya | 6% – 9% | Commercial focus | Institutional expertise |
| Britam Properties | In-house | Britam-owned assets | Internal management only |
| Sameer Africa | 5% – 10% | Residential & gated | Strong tenant retention |
| Garden City Group | In-house + external | Mall and residential | Hybrid model |
| Zameen Africa | 7% – 10% | 1 unit | Remote access via mobile |
| EstatePro Kenya | 5% – 8% | 1+ units | Budget-friendly with full oversight |
🏠 Types of Properties Managed in Kenya
Property management companies typically oversee several types of real estate:
| Property Type | Management Needs |
|---|---|
| Residential Apartments | Tenant screening, rent collection, maintenance |
| Gated Communities | Security coordination, shared amenities oversight |
| Commercial Offices | Lease enforcement, facility maintenance, legal compliance |
| Malls & Retail Spaces | Vendor management, space leasing, foot traffic optimization |
| Industrial Warehouses | Facility maintenance, rental tracking, logistics support |
| Coastal Holiday Homes | Short-term rental management, guest coordination |
📌 Some companies specialize by type, while others offer full-service management across all sectors.
💼 Common Roles in Property Management
Behind every successful property management company is a team of experts:
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Property Manager | Oversees day-to-day operations |
| Maintenance Officer | Handles repairs, landscaping, and upgrades |
| Leasing Agent | Sources new tenants and negotiates terms |
| Finance Officer | Manages rent, expenses, and owner payouts |
| Customer Support Executive | Communicates with tenants and resolves complaints |
🎓 Many companies hire graduates from institutions like University of Nairobi and JKUAT.
📈 Benefits of Hiring a Property Management Company
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Time Savings | You avoid daily hassles like tenant calls and repairs |
| Professional Oversight | Trained managers ensure optimal performance |
| Tenant Screening | Reduces risk of defaulters or problematic renters |
| Regular Income Reports | Monthly financial updates and occupancy rates |
| Legal Protection | Proper contract drafting and dispute resolution |
📌 Especially useful for expatriate property owners who live abroad.
🚨 Risks of Poor Property Management
Failing to use a professional firm can lead to:
| Risk | Impact |
|---|---|
| Late Rent Payments | Cash flow disruptions |
| Neglected Maintenance | Deteriorating property value |
| Unscreened Tenants | Higher chances of damage or non-payment |
| Lack of Legal Compliance | Potential fines or eviction challenges |
| Poor Communication | Missed opportunities and tenant turnover |
📌 Always verify that your chosen firm has clear processes and accountability.
📋 Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring a Property Manager in Kenya
Here’s how to get started with property management:
Step 1: Define Your Needs
Are you managing one apartment or multiple commercial units?
Step 2: Research Firms Online
Use platforms like LinkedIn, Google Maps, and REAK member directories.
Step 3: Request Proposals
Contact shortlisted companies and request their fee structure and service offerings.
Step 4: Review Contracts Carefully
Ensure clarity on responsibilities, duration, and termination clauses.
Step 5: Sign Agreement
Work with a licensed lawyer to formalize the engagement.
Step 6: Monitor Performance
Use digital tools or monthly reports to stay informed.
📌 Tip: Use a trial period before signing long-term contracts.
📊 Average Property Management Fees in Kenya
| Service | Avg. Fee |
|---|---|
| Monthly Management | 5% – 10% of rent collected |
| Tenant Placement | 1 month’s rent |
| Move-In/Out Inspection | KES 5,000 – KES 10,000 |
| Emergency Maintenance Call-Out | KES 3,000 – KES 10,000 |
| Annual Review & Reporting | KES 10,00 – KES 30,000 |
📌 Fees vary depending on location and complexity of the property.
📈 Emerging Trends in Property Management (2025)
The industry is evolving fast. Here’s what’s shaping the future of property management in Kenya:
| Trend | Impact |
|---|---|
| Digital Dashboards | Real-time access to rent, maintenance, and tenant data |
| Mobile-Based Platforms | More expats managing property remotely |
| AI Tenant Matching | Improved placement through smart screening tools |
| Green Building Management | Energy efficiency and sustainability practices |
| Crowdfunding & REIT Partnerships | Managing income-generating assets for funds and trusts |
📈 These trends are improving transparency and efficiency in property oversight.
🧾 Conclusion
Real estate management companies in Kenya play a crucial role in ensuring smooth, secure, and profitable property ownership. Whether you own residential apartments, commercial offices, or coastal rentals, hiring a professional firm helps protect your investment and generate consistent returns.
From tenant screening to financial reporting and maintenance , the right management partner makes all the difference—especially for busy or overseas investors.
Start researching today—and find the perfect fit for your property portfolio.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I hire a property manager for just one apartment?
A: Yes, many firms like Jengo and Zameen Africa manage single units.
Q2: How much do property management companies charge in Kenya?
A: Between 5% and 10% of monthly rent , plus additional service fees.
Q3: Is it safe to invest in property managed by a third party?
A: Yes—if you work with certified and trusted management companies.
Q4: Do property managers handle legal disputes with tenants?
A: Most offer legal support or work with affiliated advocates.
Q5: Can foreigners use property management services in Kenya?
A: Yes—many firms offer digital reporting and remote management for expatriates.
Join The Discussion