Author: Lenny Kamwara

  • Uthiru in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Uthiru

    “The Uthiru curse.”

    Is Uthiru a good place to live?

    Before diving into places where you’ll find affordable rental houses, let’s take a closer look at Uthiru.

    How is life in Uthiru?

    The rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and even security of the area are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to Uthiru.

    Where is Uthiru located in Nairobi?

    Uthiru is located along Waiyaki Way, after Westlands and Kangemi.

    The postal code for Uthiru is 00605.

    How far is Uthiru from Nairobi CBD?

    The distance from the Kenya National Archives to Uthiru roundabout is 13.2 km.

    Where do I board matatu to Uthiru?

    The Uthiru stage in Nairobi is located at the Super Metro stage near the Kenya National Archives.

    You can also board at the lower side of Latema Road near River Road.

    Super Metro will drop you at the Uthiru bus stop along Waiyaki Way.

    The ones at Latema Road will take you to Uthiru roundabout.

    There is something I didn’t like about the Uthiru minibuses at Latema Road. When they get to Kangemi market, they stop to pick up fresh passengers.

    For example, the one I boarded, we spent around 30 minutes at Kangemi waiting for it to fill and resume the journey.

    All this while Super Metros zoomed past us, one after another!

    Okay…😒

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Uthiru

    Ksh. 30-50 during off-peak hours

    Ksh. 80  during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math: If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like.

    (80×2) x 5 days = 800

    800 x 4 weeks = 3,200

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 3,200 in fares per month if you decide to live in Uthiru.

    Other fares

    Fare from Uthiru to Limuru

    Ksh. 100

    Fare from Uthiru to Flyover

    Ksh. 200

    Fare from Uthiru to Naivasha

    Ksh. 300

    Fare from Uthiru to Nakuru

    Ksh. 500

    Fare from Uthiru to Nyahururu

    Ksh. 600

    Fare from Uthiru to Eldoret

    Ksh. 1,300

    Fare from Uthiru to Kitale

    Ksh. 1,600

    Fare from Uthiru to Kisii

    Ksh. 1,500

    Water availability

    Now, Uthiru has a serious water problem. Only 2 out of the 10 people I talked to said they had water throughout. 

    There is a borehole at the Chief’s camp serving those who live nearby. I noticed people had lots of yellow water jerricans in areas far from this borehole.

    Food prices in Uthiru

    5/10 people I talked to said that food prices in Uthiru are average.

    4 said they’re high.

    1 said they’re low.

    Is Uthiru safe?

    So far in 2024, there have been 0 cases of insecurity in Uthiru reported in the media.

    What about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    7/10 said Uthiru is safe, with only a few cases of theft heard of.

    The other 3 said bodaboda gangs are snatching mobile phones from people.

    Why residents love Uthiru

    “Houses are affordable.”

    “Affordable food.”

    “Fresh air.”

    “It touches Waiyaki Way.”

    “Not congested.”

    “Training ground at Kabete Technical Institute.”

    What residents don’t like about Uthiru

    “Water challenges.”

    “Power outages.”

    “Dirty trenches.”

    “Discrimination of businesses by the natives.”

    “Insecurity.”

    “Low business.”

    “No market complex.”

    “Too many bars. The youth is lost in alcoholism.”

    “Very old houses at the town center.”

    Business ideas

    If you are considering setting up a business in Uthiru, think of the following:

    •Duka (small shop)

    •Mitumba clothes

    •Grocery store

    •Hardware

    •Mali mali for plastic products

    The Uthiru curse

    What’s the future for Uthiru?

    According to one person I spoke to, this town never grows. Visit the town center and you’ll find incredibly old houses.

    So what’s preventing this town center from growing?

    Curses.

    The native residents can’t sell land to investors for fear of curses from their forefathers.

    It’s understandable.

    But then why don’t they build modern buildings themselves?

    It seems they either are not willing (or capable) of doing that. They are okay with the status quo. They are still collecting rent, anyway.

    Maybe there will come a generation that doesn’t care about curses. Gen Z has shown disregard for long-standing traditions, so who knows how Gen A will act?

    That, or the natives will step up and build a modern town themselves, and then Uthiru will rise.

    Check out rental houses in nearby Kinoo.

  • Kinoo in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What To Expect When You Relocate

    Kinoo

    Kinoo is quiet, and green, with cool, fresh air. But I couldn’t help but notice this is a middle-class settlement.

    And a place mainly for people with families.

    Is Kinoo a good place to live?

    Before diving into places where you’ll find affordable rental houses, let’s take a closer look at Kinoo.

    How’s life in Kinoo?

    The rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and even security of the area are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to Kinoo.

    Where is Kinoo located in Nairobi?

    Kinoo is located along Waiyaki Way past Westlands, Kangemi and Uthiru.

    How far is Kinoo from Nairobi

    The distance from the Kenya National Archives to Kinoo is 16.9 km.

    Where do I board matatu to Kinoo?

    The Kinoo matatu stage in Nairobi is located at the Super Metro stage near Kenya National Archives.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Kinoo

    Ksh. 30-50  during off-peak hours.

    Ksh. 100  during the rush hour.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like.

    200 x 5 days = 1,000

    1,000 x 4 weeks = 4,000

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 4,000 in fares per month if you decide to live in Kinoo.

    Other fares

    Fare from Kinoo to Gitaru

    Ksh. 30

    Fare from Kinoo to Kikuyu

    Ksh. 30

    Fare from Kinoo to Wangige

    Ksh. 50

    Water availability

    The people I talked to on the ground complained of water challenges.

    If you stay on an expensive apartment you may not experience water problems because the owner has either sank a borehole or buys water from vendors to fill in the tanks.

    Otherwise, those who stay in houses with no borehole or such an arrangement have to buy a 20-liter jerrican at Ksh. 20 or 30.

    Food prices in Kinoo

    7/10 people I talked to said that food prices in Kinoo are high.

    The remaining 3 said they are usually average.

    Is Kinoo safe?

    In 2023, there was at least one case of insecurity.

    So far in 2024, there have been 0 cases of insecurity in Kinoo reported in the media.

    And what about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    8 of the 10 people I talked to said there are very many cases of phone theft by bodaboda gangs.

    The town center is safe. There is a police post nearby and they make lots of patrols. Insecurity increases as you head to Muthiga and also Kanyariri.

    Some businesses are forced to close shop as early as 8.30 pm.

    Why residents love Kinoo

    “Green with cool, fresh air.”

    “Spacious houses.”

    “Welcoming people.”

    “Affordable food.”

    “Not crowded.”

    “Barbara ya Chief is now tarmacked.”

    What residents don’t like about Kinoo

    “Lack of a market complex.”

    “Water challenges.”

    “Borehole water is salty.”

    “Insecurity on the upper side towards Muthiga.”

    “Flooding of Barabara ya Chief near Leestar Supermarket.”

    “No footbridges across Waiyaki Way.”

    “Pockets of insecurity.”

    “Slow businesses.”

    “No sewer line.”

    “For Government services, you’ll have to go to Kikuyu or Nairobi GPO.”

    “Alcoholism.”

    Business ideas

    If you’re thinking of setting up a business in Kinoo, think of the following:

    •Kibanda ya soko

    •Hardware

    •Duka (small shop)

    •Mitumba clothes

    •Mali mali (small diversified trader)

    •Water refill

    •Laudromart

    I hope it has been helpful. Send this post’s link to a friend who is searching for a rental house in Kinoo.

  • Marurui in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Marurui

    You could be in Nairobi and maybe you’ve never heard of Marurui.

    I’ll tell you where it is, showcase houses available for rent, and tell you what to expect if you relocate to this area.

    I’ll also tell you the type of businesses you can set up here.

    Is Marurui a good place to live?

    So, let’s take a closer look at Marurui.

    How’s life in Marurui?

    The rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and even security of the area are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to Marurui.

    Where is Marurui located in Nairobi?

    Marurui is located 3.7 Km off Thika Road from Roasters. When you get to Roasters, take a Ksh. 20 matatu. It will take you to Marurui.

    If you are around Kasarani or Roysambu, a shortcut would be to use Mirema Drive, then join the Northern Bypass.

    Where do I board matatu to Marurui?

    The Marurui stage in Nairobi is located along Moi Lane, near Imenti House.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Marurui

    Ksh. 50  during off-peak hours

    Ksh. 70  during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math: If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like.

    (70×2) x 5 days = 700

    700 x 4 weeks = 2,800

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 2,800 in fares per month if you decide to live in Marurui.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic pain points are Muthaiga and Globe Roundabout.

    Water availability

    6 out of 10 of the people I talked to said they had water throughout.

    The remaining 4 said water availability is sporadic.

    Food prices in Marurui

    6/10 people I talked to said that food prices in Marurui are high.

    4 said they’re average.

    Is Marurui safe?

    So far in 2024, there has been 1 case of insecurity in neighboring Thome estate reported in the media.

    What about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    8/10 of the people I talked to said insecurity on the lower side of Marurui “the ghetto” is high.

    They said the theft of mobile phones is rife in the area and that it’s unsafe from 10 p.m.

    What residents love about Marurui

    “The serenity.”

    “Life is affordable.”

    “Conducive for business.”

    “Good schools.”

    “Affordable houses.”

    What residents don’t like about Marurui

    “Dusty feeder roads.”

    “There’s no playing ground.”

    “Green-eyed residents.”

    “The lower side is unsafe at night.”

    “Small entrance to Marurui. Not big enough for simultaneous car, motorcycle, and pedestrian use.”

    Business ideas

    Thinking of starting a business in Marurui? Think of the following:

    •Kibanda ya soko (Grocery store)

    •Small hotel

    •Salon or kinyozi (Barber shop)

    •Mtumba (Thrift) shop

    Lacking business

    •A bank.

    Send this post’s link to a friend who is searching for a rental house in Marurui.

    See the house guide for Roysambu.

  • South B in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    South B, Nairobi

    Welcome to South B.

    Is South B a good place to live?

    Before we dive into places where you’ll find affordable rental houses, let’s take a closer look at South B.

    How is life in South B?

    The rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and security are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to South B.

    How far is South B from Nairobi?

    The distance from the Bus station to South B shopping Centre through Uhuru Highway is 4.9 Km.

    Where do I board matatu to South B?

    The South B matatu stage in Nairobi is located at Bus Station near Afya Centre.

    Fare from Nairobi Town to South B

    Ksh. 30  during off-peak hours.

    Ksh. 50  during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like.

    (50×2) x 5 days = 500

    500 x 4 weeks = 2,000

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 2,000 in fares per month if you decide to live in South B.

    Walking as an alternative

    Yes, you can walk to town.

    It took me 35 minutes to walk from the South B shopping Centre to the Kenya National Archives.

    That’s the route through Railways footbridge, Haile Selassie Highway, and Moi Avenue.

    Water availability

    Amazingly, most of the residents here said they had water throughout!

    That was 7 out of the 10 people I talked to.

    There is a borehole at Hazina with water throughout, though the water is salty. But it’s free to use.

    There is also water from Nairobi Water that they use to cook and drink.

    I found that the ones with water challenges are the ones who reside along Plainsview Road.

    Food prices in South B market

    6 of the 10 people I talked to said that food prices in South B are low to average.

    The remaining 4 said they felt they were high.

    Is South B safe?

    So far in 2024, there has been at least 1 case of insecurity in South B reported in the media.

    What about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    5 of the 10 people I talked to said there are cases of theft targeting market women early in the morning. It’s important to note that these were respondents in Hazina bordering Mukuru Kayaba.

    They also talked of thieves using motorbikes to snatch phones and get away. I was told these thieves come from other areas in Nairobi to commit crimes here.

    The upper part of South B is safe. Also safe are Sana Sana and Balozi.

    Why residents love South B

    “Cheap fare to Nairobi CBD.”

    “Smart houses (but pricey).”

    “Good private schools.”

    “It has modernized.”

    “Peaceful, even during political demonstrations.”

    “High population favors businesses.”

    What residents don’t like about South B

    “Bad drainage system.”

    “Is becoming congested.”

    “Water challenges.”

    “No consistent street lighting.”

    “High rent prices.”

    Business ideas

    If you’re thinking of setting up a business in South B, think of the following:

    •Fruit parlour

    •Fast-food joint

    •Taxi

    •Small retail shop

    •Salon

    •Mitumba clothes

    Rental houses inside estates

    Before I wrap this up, there is one more place you’ll find affordable houses here in South B — inside the gated estates.

    You may get lucky and find a vacant servant quarter, or an extension.

    They’re few, and they also have another characteristic: they’re shaped differently and are usually not spacious.

    They are not the standard bedsitter you’re used to. But, hey, this is Nairobi —sometimes you have limited choices.

    They usually go for between 9,000 to 12,000.

    That’s it! That’s all I got for you in this guide to rental houses in South B. I hope it has been helpful. Send this post link to a friend who is searching for a house in South B.

    See places you’ll find cheaper houses in Imara Daima, along Mombasa Road.

  • Pangani in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Ngara, Nairobi

    Is Pangani a good place to live?

    Let’s take a closer look at Pangani.

    How’s life in Pangani?

    The rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, commuting time, food prices, water availability, and security are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to Pangani.

    Where is Pangani located in Nairobi?

    From Nairobi CBD, Pangani is located after Ngara and just before reaching Eastleigh.

    How far is Pangani from Nairobi?

    The distance from Odeon Cinema to Pangani Shopping Centre through Murang’a Road is 4.4 Km.

    Is Pangani part of Eastleigh?

    No. Pangani boarders Eastleigh, but it’s not part of it.

    Where do I board matatu to Pangani?

    The Pangani matatu stage in Nairobi is located opposite the Fire Station near Koja stage. 

    Fare from Nairobi Town to Pangani

    Ksh. 50.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is how your budget will look like:

    (50×2) x 5 days = 500

    500 x 4 weeks = 2,000

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 2,000 in fares per month if you decide to live in Panagani.

    Matatus at Pangani matatu stage charge 40 bob to town but are active in the morning.

    Walking as an alternative

    You can walk from Pangani to town.

    It took me exactly 30 minutes to walk from Pangani Shopping Center, through Park Road Ngara and Accra Road to Kenya National Archives.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic jam pain point is the Globe roundabout.

    Water availability

    I talked to 10 residents about water availability in Pangani.

    4 out of 10 said they had water throughout. 

    The other 6 said they get water only 2 days a week, that is on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s important to note that these are the residents staying in older buildings.

    Newer buildings have storage tanks big enough to ensure there’s water throughout.

    Food prices in Pangani

    What do residents feel about the price of groceries here?

    4 of 10 people I talked to said they felt that food prices in Pangani are average.

    The other 6 said food prices are high. They said that they get cheap foodstuff from the nearby Mlango Kubwa market.

    Is Pangani safe?

    In 2023, there were two cases of insecurity in Pangani reported in the media. Read about them here and here.

    So far in 2024, there are none.

    What about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    5 out of the 10 people I talked to said theft of mobile phones is rampant in the lower side of Pangani.

    The thieves use bodaboda to snatch and get away. 

    What residents love about Pangani

    “Good, good security.”

    “Nice, modern houses.”

    “Good for business.”

    “People are social.”

    “Cool place.”

    What residents don’t like about Pangani

    “Dirty roads.”

    “Poor drainage system.”

    “Poor roads inside the estate.”

    “Expensive groceries.”

    “Expensive rents, both for residential and business houses.”

    Business ideas

    If you’re thinking of starting a business in Pangani, think of the following:

    •Remember Mejja’s lyric “Twende Pangani tuchane majani…” Yep, a muguka/miraa joint. Pangani is a popular chill spot, even for celebrities.

    •Food business (Shawarma, beverages, meat grill, cafe, restaurant).

    •Online cab or taxi

    •Chemist

    •Grocery store (kibanda)

    •Wholesale shop

    •Mamafua

    See the guide for Marurui.

  • Ngara in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Ngara Town

    Is Ngara a good place to live?

    Before we dive into places where you’ll find affordable rental houses, let’s take a closer look at Ngara.

    What does life in Ngara look like?

    Because the rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, commuting time, food prices, water availability, and security are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? And is it a good fit for you? Let’s find out.

    This is what to expect when you relocate to Ngara.

    Where is Ngara located in Nairobi?

    Ngara neighbors the Nairobi CBD.

    The postal code for Ngara is 00600.

    Distance from Ngara to Nairobi CBD

    The distance from Ngara to Odeon Cinema through Ngara Road and Globe flyover is 2.1 kilometers.

    Where do I board matatu to Ngara?

    The Ngara matatu stage in Nairobi is opposite the Fire Station, along Tom Mboya Street.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Ngara

    Ksh 50.

    Let’s do the math: If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like.

    (50×2) x 5 days = 500

    500 x 4 weeks = 2,000

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 2,000 in fares per month if you decide to live in Ngara.

    Walking as an alternative

    The good thing is that you can easily walk to town. It’s one of the major selling points here by landlords.

    It took me exactly 10 minutes to walk from Equity Ngara to Kenya National Archives.

    That’s the route behind Equity, across Nairobi River and along Accra Road.

    Ngara bridge across Nairobi River
    Ngara bridge across the Nairobi River

    It may not be a suitable option very early in the morning when it’s still dark or late at night unless you’re macho.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic pain point is the Globe roundabout.

    Other fares

    These are the current fares at the Park Road Bus Terminus. 

    Fare from Ngara to Meru

    Ksh. 1,000

    Fare from Ngara to Chuka

    Ksh. 800

    Fare from Ngara to Embu

    Ksh. 450

    Fare from Ngara to Mwea

    Ksh. 350

    Fare from Ngara to Kenol

    Ksh. 200

    Fare from Ngara to Thika

    Ksh. 100

    Fare from Ngara to Juja

    Ksh. 80

    Fare from Ngara to Ruiru

    Ksh. 70

    Fare from Ngara to KU

    Ksh. 60

    Fare from Ngara to Githurai

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Ngara to Kiambu

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Ngara to Murang’a

    Ksh. 300

    Water availability

    I talked to 10 residents about water availability in Ngara.

    5 out of 10 said they had water throughout. 

    The other 5 said water is available only 2 to 3 days a week.

    I was informed that water in the Railways area is present 24/7!

    Talk to the landlord or caretaker before renting and enquire about water availability. You may need to buy a small water tank.

    Food prices in Ngara

    6 out of 10 people I talked to said that food prices in Ngara are average.

    The remaining 4 said food prices here are high.

    Is Ngara safe?

    In 2023, there was 1 case of insecurity reported in the media. Read about it here.

    So far in 2024, there has been one.

    What about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    6 of the 10 people I talked to said they hadn’t heard of insecurity incidents since the beginning of the year.

    The other 4 talked of thieves using bodaboda to snatch mobile phones.

    They identified the area around Guru Nanak and Murang’a Road, around Equity, and as you head to Nyamakima as key insecurity areas.

    All in all, Ngara is safe.

    Business ideas

    I was in Ngara the other day to research the most popular businesses. I’ll tell you what I found.

    Ngara is the first choice for college students studying in the CBD. Bedsitters are a hotcake here. Unfortunately, there aren’t enough to meet the demand.

    Given the high number of young individuals, it is no surprise that pubs and wines & spirits enjoy equal popularity.

    But the most popular business in Ngara is the garage business.

    I’ll put it aptly: Ngara is a garage town. I know, I know… you’ve probably never looked at it this way. Me too.

    If they are not waiting for passengers, the vehicles you see here are waiting to get repaired.

    Garages and auto spare shops are THRIVING.

    If this is your line of work, consider Ngara a suitable location. Just make sure your auto spare shop is next to a garage.

    So are you thinking of starting a business in Ngara? I’d recommend the following:

    •Garage

    •Auto spares shop

    •Guest house

    •Pub, wines and spirit

    •Fast food joint

    What residents love about Ngara

    “It’s near the CBD. You can walk to town.”

    “Park Road is secure.”

    “It’s ideal for business.”

    What residents don’t like about Ngara

    “Expensive rents, both for residential houses and business shops .”

    “Harassment of businesses by County Government officials.”

    “Inner roads are not paved.”

    “Not the best place to raise a family.”

    “The youth is lost in alcoholism and bad behavior.”

    “Very few churches. I think there’s only one, or two.”

    Alright! Let’s dive in.

    Ngara: The outlook, 2024 and beyond

    —Just like Pangani, old houses in Ngara are slowly being replaced by modern, high-rise buildings. In a few years — my prediction — Ngara will undergo a complete transformation.

    The changing face of Ngara
    Ngara in 2024

  • What You Need to Know Before Renting a House in Nairobi in 2025

    Where to find affordable rental houses in Nairobi

    Here is what you need to know before renting a house in Nairobi.

    Whether you are searching for a single room, double room, 1 (one), 2 (two), or 3 (three) bedroom house in Nairobi, this is for you.

    Highlights

    ▪ How to identify online scammers.

    ▪ How to quickly find houses within your budget.

    ▪ What to expect when you go house-hunting.

    ▪ Questions you should ask the landlord before renting.

    Searching for a house to rent in Nairobi is hectic, no doubt. It’s among the top 5 things that will stress your existence in the big city.

    By the way, if you’re wondering what those 5 things are, lack of money tops them all. 

    Anyway, moving on…

    Ways to look for a house to rent

    When searching for a house, you have 3 options:

    1. Search online and call the phone numbers provided.

    2. Pay an agent to find you a house.

    3. Physically go house hunting yourself.

    1. Searching online

    The easiest of them all, but also the easiest to get scammed. Of course, there are genuine agents online but a fair share of them are conmen. This is how you will identify a scammer:

    🚩They’ll use elegant house images with an unusually low price tag. You look at the 2-bedroom house going for 7k a month in a town where they usually go for 16k and you think “Mm-mm. Something’s not adding up.” When you visit the house (in case you do) you find it is not what they had advertised.

    🚩They’ll pressure you to pay a deposit because “another person is about to pay for the house”.

    🚩Once you call them, they’ll connect you to the “owner,” usually an old man/woman (or a young man/woman masquerading as one). When you ask how much the house goes for, they only say “hiyo imeandikwa hapo.“(the price that’s written there). Or they’ll quote a price different from the one advertised.

    🚩They’ll insist they are not available for house viewing at that moment, but tell you that you can pay a deposit to book it.

    2. Paying an agent

    This is another option where you pay an agent to find you a house. Usually, it’s Ksh. 1,000, sometimes more depending on the type of house you are looking for.

    It’s suitable especially if you are busy at work and don’t have time to go searching yourself.

    It may look like a lot of money to give an agent but I can assure you it’s worth it. It takes a lot of time, energy, airtime, et al for them to find you a good house.

    When you get to the ground for house-viewing, you will understand the struggle they go through.

    3. Physically visiting the place

    Then you can physically visit the place if you have the time.

    One advantage is that you get to see the actual house and the surroundings.

    You also have the chance to deal with the owner or official caretaker, so you’re assured your money will land in the right hands.

    The best website to find houses for rent in Nairobi

    The best website to find rental houses is no doubt jibubora.com/. Before you go house-hunting, start by checking out this page. 

    Say, for example, you want to go to Ongata Rongai to search for a Ksh. 8,000 bedsitter. Where do you start?

    JibuBora simplifies the process for you. Just browse Rental houses in Ongata Rongai, and look for bedsitters for Ksh. 8,000 or less, then go there and check if there are any available. Or send a friend to check for you.

    This way, you get more variety to choose from and you’ll have avoided conmen. Now, that’s simplified house-hunting.

    The things I’ve noticed

    I’ve been doing house-hunting in different towns and these are my observations.

    Nowadays, house developers prefer putting up 1, 2, or 3-bedroom houses to bedsitters and single rooms. For a good reason: It’s more advantageous to rent out a two-bedroom house than 3 single rooms.

    The 2 bedroom will earn more money in rent. There are also fewer people on the property, so it’s more secure and there is less damage to fittings.

    They are also less likely to default on payments (They have a reputation to protect, you know). Generally, there is less headache involved.

    It then means you are more likely to struggle to find a single room or bedsitter than a 1, 2, or 3-bedroom house.

    And the most of bedsitters and single rooms are usually fully occupied. The ones that are unoccupied are either too expensive or far from town. Or, well, they don’t look that nice. 

    When is the best time to look for a rental house?

    The best time to look for a house is the last week of the month or the first week of the following month. This is the time tenants are vacating houses.

    Searching for a house in the middle of the month is frustrating because most of the time, the houses are fully occupied.

    Set aside a whole day for house-hunting. And be ready to do a lot of walking that day.

    Vacant houses get occupied within hours

    If you’ve found a house you like, you’ve got a few hours’ window to pay and occupy.

    Hesitate and you’ll find it’s already occupied. Other people have seen the house and liked it too.

    Vacant houses in Nairobi get occupied within a few hours, especially if it’s month-end.

    Just make sure you pay to the owner of the house or the official bank account to avoid being conned. Also, keep the receipt.

    Will rental prices drop?

    Unlikely. Instead, they usually go up. It’s funny that landlords and landladies in Kenya would rather have a house stay vacant than drop the rent prices. Even during COVID time!

    But it’s important to note that rent prices are not always fixed. Especially if the property is managed directly by the owner, you can negotiate. Actually, always negotiate. No harm in telling them you can afford 9,000 for a 10,000 house. 

    They are unlikely to let go of a potential client because of a Sh. 1,000 difference.

    How do I get a cheaper house in Nairobi?

    Cheaper houses in an area where equivalents are expensive are mostly older buildings. 

    Owners of older buildings may offer lower rent because of the issues with the property. Mostly, it’s plumbing problems.

    So you either put up with the old building or look for a newer and cheaper one far from town.

    MONEY-SAVING TIP: The houses on the ground floor of most buildings are usually cheaper than their equivalents on the upper floors.

    Questions you should ask before renting a house

    1. Is the property managed by an agent or the owner?

    2. How much deposit should you pay? Same as the rent price, half or even none?

    3. Will they refund the deposit when you vacate?

    4. Are there other charges not included in the rent?

    5. Is water available throughout?

    What do you need to show to rent a house?

    You’ll need a copy of your identification card and a passport-size photo.

    They may give you a written contract. Read through the fine print before you sign.

    Ask for clarification where you don’t understand. It’ll save you headaches when it’s time to vacate.

    Living in Nairobi is no fairy tale…

    … at least for the majority of Kenyans. Especially when it comes to rental houses. 

    Because you have to give up something. It’s either you get a cheap house that is too far from CBD, so you use a lot of money in your daily travel; or get one near CBD, but with the rent price over the roof.

    Maybe the place is good but with frequent water shortages. Or insecurity. Or bad roads. Or frequent power blackouts (maybe there’s a faulty transformer that Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has taken ages to replace).

    And if it’s all good, then it’s a posh estate where you’ll pay an arm and a leg in rent.

    The point is: There is always a tradeoff. Choose your struggle.

    Bienvenue à Nairobi.

    Welcome to Nairobi.

  • Ongata Rongai in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Is Ongata Rongai a good place to live?

    Let’s take a closer look at Ongata Rongai.

    What’s life liike in Ongata Rongai?

    Because the rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and security are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? And is it a good fit for you? Let’s find out.

    This is what to expect when you relocate to Ongata Rongai.

    Where is Ongata Rongai located?

    From Nairobi CBD, Ongata Rongai is located along Magadi Road after Lang’ata. It is in Kajiado County.

    The postal code for Ongata Rongai is 00511.

    Distance from Nairobi to Ongata Rongai

    The distance from Nairobi Railways bus station to Tuskys Ongata Rongai via Lang’ata Road and Magadi Road is 18.7 km.

    Where do I board matatu to Ongata Rongai?

    The Ongata Rongai stage in Nairobi is located at Railways bus station at the intersection of Moi Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Ongata Rongai

    Ksh. 30-50 during off-peak hours.

    Ksh. 100 during rush hours.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is how your budget will look like:

    (100×2) x 5 days = 1,000

    1,000 x 4 weeks = 4,000

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh 4,000 in fares per month if you decide to live in Ongata Rongai.

    Traffic jam pain points

    There was a time when it took hours to get to Ongata Rongai due to crazy traffic jams.

    The construction of overpasses at T-Mall and Galleria Mall have helped alleviate the pain.

    However, magadi Road is still a mess. The road is too narrow considering the high traffic along it. That it’s still a single-carriageway in 2024 beats all logic.

    For instance, the traffic jam can stretch from Multimedia University all the way to Tuskys.

    Other fares

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Kiserian

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Nkoroi

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Kandisi

    Take a motorbike (bodaboda) Ksh. 150-200

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Kitengela

    I was surprised to find out there is no direct matatu from Ongata Rongai to Kitengela.

    You’ll first have to get to Kiserian, then connect to Kitengela.

    I was told Maasai Lodge Road can get you to Kitengela, but it’s in bad shape and still under construction, so matatus avoid it.

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Nakuru

    Ksh. 700

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Kisumu

    Ksh. 1,600

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Eldoret

    Ksh. 1,300

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Bungoma

    Ksh. 1,600

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Kisii

    Ksh. 1,500

    Fare from Ongata Rongai to Kakamega

    Ksh. 1,600

    Water availability

    I talked to 10 residents about water availability in Ongata Rongai.

    6 of the 10 people I talked to complained of water challenges. They told me that they get water from Oloolaiser Water once a week. Sometimes they can go for weeks without water. On other days they use water from boreholes.

    Those with no borehole in their residential places buy water from vendors. One 20-litre jerrican goes for Ksh. 20. At times it goes for Ksh. 30 or even 50!

    Market food prices in Ongata Rongai

    Ongata Rongai has one lifeline: the Kware market.

    7 out of the 10 people I talked to said that food prices at Kware market are low to average.

    The remaining 3 were located far from the market (Rongai is big) and said they find food prices in Ongata Rongai high.

    Is Ongata Rongai safe?

    Securitywise, 2023 was a bad year for Ongata Rongai. Cases of mobile phone theft by bodaboda gangs and house-breakings were high.

    There were at least two cases of insecurity reported, here and here.

    So far in 2024, there has been at least 2 cases of insecurity in Ongata Rongai reported in the media. Read about them here, and here.

    What about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents. They said cases of theft had decreased.

    They identified the Kware area, Mandazi Road, Kimani Kinuthia Road, Magenche Road, and Kisumu Ndogo along Gataka Road as hotspots.

    What residents love about Ongata Rongai

    “It accommodates all classes of people, high, middle and low class.”

    “High population is good for business.”

    “Good for raising a family.”

    “Diversity of people. Originally only Maasai but now a mix of different tribes.”

    “There’s now a morgue (at Saitoti Hospital).”

    What residents don’t like about Ongata Rongai

    “The town is dirty.”

    “Dirty roadside trenches.”

    “Lack of a sewer line.”

    “Narrow Magadi Road.”

    “Waves of insecurity.”

    “Water challenges.”

    “Expensive rental houses.”

    “Traffic jam.”

    “Exaggerated fare prices to Nairobi CBD. They can go up to Ksh. 120, even 150.”

    Business ideas

    It’s hard to single out popular businesses because Ongata Rongai has a little of everything. However, if you want to put up a business here, consider one of these:

    •Green grocery

    •Fresh water refill point

    •Matatu

    •Hardware

    •Exhauster services

    I hope this has been helpful. Send the link to this post to a friend who is searching for a house in Ongata Rongai.

  • Gacharage Junction in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Gacharage, Ruaka

    Is Gacharage a good place to live?

    Let’s take a closer look at Gacharage.

    What does life in Gacharage look like?

    Because the rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    You should also take into account daily fare, commuting time, food prices, water availability, and security.

    So what is it like living there? And is it a good fit for you? Let’s find out.

    This is what to expect when you relocate to Gacharage.

    Where is Gacharage Junction located?

    Gacharage Junction is located along Limuru Road in Ruaka town before you reach Ndenderu.

    Distance from Gacharage to Nairobi CBD

    The distance from Gacharage Junction to Koja stage in Nairobi via Limuru Road is 14.9 km.

    Where do I board matatu to Gacharage?

    The Gacharage matatu stage in Nairobi is located at Koja stage along Tom Mboya Street near the fire station.

    You can also board at the lower side of Latema Road near River Road.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Gacharage Junction

    Ksh 80.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like.

    (80×2) x 5 days = 800

    800 x 4 weeks = 3,200

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh 3,200 in fares per month if you decide to live in Gacharage.

    Traffic jam pain points

    You will experience traffic jams at Gigiri UN, and after Two Rivers Mall as you enter Ruaka town.

    If you are heading to Nairobi, the Globe Roundabout is also notorious for traffic snarl-ups.

    Water availability

    I talked to 10 residents about water availability in Gacharage.

    9 out of 10 said they had water throughout.

    Verdict: You are unlikely to face water challenges here at Gacharage. 

    Food prices in Gacharage

    6 of the 10 people I talked to said that food prices in Gacharage are average.

    The remaining 4 said food prices here are high.

    Is Gacharage safe?

    So far in 2024, there have been 2 cases of insecurity in Gacharage reported in the media, here, and here.

    What about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    They said there were many cases of insecurity, with thieves snatching mobile phones.

    They however said those thieves do not break into shops or residential houses, they are only active at the town center.

    Why residents love Gacharage

    “Affordable houses.”

    “It’s not congested.”

    “No water challenges.”

    What residents don’t like about Gacharage

    “Too many pubs.”

    “The town is not growing due to deep-rooted alcoholism.”

    “Pockets of insecurity.”

    Business ideas

    If you’re thinking of setting up a business in Gacharage Junction, think of the following:

    •Grocery store

    •Small hotel

    •Butchery

    Places you’ll find affordable rental houses in Gacharage Junction

    Gacharage is on the upper side of Ruaka, on your way to Ndenderu.

    It’s a good place to search for a house if you can’t find one at Ruaka town center.

    It’s lined up with very many expensive apartments on either side.

    See the kind of life you will find in Ndenderu.

  • Muchatha, Ruaka in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Muchatha

    Water availability

    You are not likely to experience water challenges in Muchatha.

    Most houses get water from boreholes. You may face challenges if your apartment relies on City Council water, which is only available on Mondays.

    Food prices

    While not as expensive as Ruaka, groceries in Muchatha are still expensive, according to the residents I spoke to.

    You can source cheaper foodstuff in Banana Hill market, but it’s also only cheaper on “market days,” two days a week.

    Is Muchatha safe?

    So far in 2024, yes.

    In 2023, there were very many cases of insecurity. Snatching of mobile phones, and breaking into shops were common. Some thieves also jumped over fences to steal items left outside like shoes and clothes.

    Other thieves lay flat on empty vibandas along the road to ambush and steal from passers-by.

    What residents love about Muchatha

    “Cool climate.”

    “Green environment.”

    “Friendly people.”

    “Affordable houses.”

    “Not crowded.”

    What residents don’t like about Muchatha

    “Waves of insecurity.”

    “Harassment of businesses by City Council officials.”

    “Alcoholism among the youth.”

    “Joblessness.”

    “Flooding when it rains.”

    “The town never grows.”

    “It’s boring.”

    “Slow businesses.”

    Popular businesses

    •General shops

    •Green grocery stores

    •Hardwares

    •Clothes shops.

    If you can’t find a suitable house in Muchatha, check out Rental houses in Gacharage. Send this post to a friend searching for a rental house in Muchatha.