Buying from abroad
Diaspora hub
Everything you need to buy, invest in, or rent out property across East Africa — without being on the ground.
The remote buying process
Six steps to owning property from abroad
Identify the property
Browse verified listings on CoralStones. All listings show USD and GBP equivalents in addition to local currency.
Appoint a local representative
Grant Power of Attorney (POA) to a trusted person or your conveyancer in-country. They can attend viewings, sign documents and lodge title transfers on your behalf. Your conveyancer can prepare the POA for you to sign abroad.
Conduct due diligence
Your appointed conveyancer will search the title, confirm ownership and check for encumbrances. CoralStones' Full Title verification adds a second layer of independent confirmation.
Transfer funds through official channels
Use your bank's international wire transfer or a regulated FX provider (not informal channels). Retain proof of transfer — it is required for future title resales and to prove legitimate acquisition.
Complete the transaction
Your POA holder signs the sale agreement and lodge the transfer with the Lands Registry. Allow 4–12 weeks depending on the country. Your name appears on the new title deed.
Manage your property remotely
CoralStones can connect you with verified property managers and letting agents in each country for ongoing management, rental income collection and maintenance.
Currency guide
What currency do you pay in?
Property prices in East Africa are typically quoted in local currency, but many high-value transactions (especially for foreign buyers) are completed in USD. Always transfer through a regulated bank or FX provider — proof of transfer is required for future resales.
KES
Kenyan Shilling
Most liquid EA market. USD widely accepted for high-value sales.
USD
US Dollar
Common for high-value and diaspora purchases; a hedge against local FX swings.
GBP
Pound Sterling
Popular with UK-based diaspora buyers; converted at the point of transfer.
Legal framework
Power of attorney & foreign ownership
Can foreigners own property in Kenya? Yes, with some restrictions. Foreigners can hold long-term leases of up to 99 years and can own apartments (sectional titles) outright; agricultural land is reserved for citizens. Always consult a licensed conveyancer for advice specific to your situation.
Power of Attorney (POA) allows a trusted individual in-country — often your conveyancer — to sign documents on your behalf. Your POA must be notarised in your country of residence and apostilled (or legalised at the relevant East African high commission) before it is valid locally.
Proof of funds is required for all property purchases above certain thresholds. Keep full records of your international wire transfers. Some countries require evidence of source of funds for amounts above USD 10,000.
How we help diaspora buyers
USD & GBP pricing
All listings show USD and GBP equivalents alongside local currency — no guesswork.
Remote verification
Full Title verification confirms ownership without you needing to be in the country.
Remote-friendly enquiries
Enquire, ask questions and arrange viewings through a local representative — all without being in the country.