How tech is disrupting Kenya's traditional house-hunting industry

Technology is transforming Kenya's real estate market, with digital platforms replacing traditional house hunting that relied on brokers, newspaper advertisements and physically visiting multiple estates.

Property marketplace Reemio says the shift is being driven by growing demand for convenience, transparency and speed, particularly among young, tech-savvy renters.

The platform, which hosts more than 28,000 rental and sale listings across Nairobi and its environs, has facilitated over 150 successful tenant placements in the past four months through verified listings, virtual tours and online bookings.

According to Reemio Head of Business Hellen Njoki, technology is addressing many of the frustrations associated with house hunting.

"House hunting has traditionally involved visiting multiple properties, paying viewing fees and sometimes finding that the house does not match the photos advertised online. Through technology, we are making the process faster, safer and more transparent by allowing people to take virtual tours before booking a free physical viewing," she said.

Reemio says more than 60 per cent of its users are women, while most customers are below 35 years.

Demand is strongest for homes renting below Ksh.25,000, particularly in Ruiru, Juja and along Kiambu Road, where newer developments offer affordable housing.

Njoki said renters are increasingly looking beyond rent and location, with factors such as security, internet connectivity, service charges and nearby amenities influencing decisions.

Origin Homes Properties CEO Robert Kisekwa said technology has fundamentally changed the way Kenyans search for homes.

"Buyers and tenants can now compare prices, locations, amenities, floor plans and even take virtual tours before scheduling a physical viewing. This significantly reduces the time and cost involved in searching for a home," he said.

Kisekwa added that online listings, social media and virtual tours have expanded developers' reach and made it easier for diaspora investors to identify properties remotely.

The industry players say digital platforms are making Kenya's property market more transparent by reducing fraud, cutting house-hunting costs and enabling buyers and tenants to make more informed decisions before visiting a property.