Rental fraud exists in every market. We work hard to verify listings and users — but scammers are persistent. These tips will help you protect yourself.
Follow these steps for every property you consider.
Visit the property in person. If you cannot go, send a trusted friend or use a video call with the landlord — but never pay a deposit for a property you haven't verified.
Use M-Pesa or bank transfer — never cash. Keep all receipts. A legitimate landlord will always give you a payment receipt and a signed tenancy agreement.
Ask to see the original title deed, lease agreement, or sale agreement. Cross-check with the landlord's ID. For land purchases, verify with the Lands Registry.
Keep all conversations on Homezetu's inquiry system. This creates a record and helps us investigate disputes. Be cautious of landlords who insist on moving to WhatsApp immediately.
Price is significantly below market rate for the area
Landlord says they are abroad and can't show you the property
Requests a deposit or "reservation fee" before any viewing
Cannot provide an original title deed or tenancy agreement
Pressures you to decide immediately or lose the property
Photos look too professional or don't match the area described
Contact number not reachable or responds only via text/WhatsApp
No physical address or gives vague location directions
Land fraud is common. These steps protect you whether you're buying locally or from abroad.
Search the title deed on the Lands Registry or via Ardhisasa (ardhisasa.go.ke) to confirm ownership.
Hire a licensed conveyancer / advocate before signing any agreement.
Insist on a sale agreement that includes a clause for ownership transfer upon full payment.
Do a physical visit with the seller present — confirm beacons/boundary marks.
Pay only in full after the title transfer is complete — not before.
Check the county land rates are paid up-to-date before purchase.
Investing from abroad adds risk. Take these additional steps.
Work only with verified agents listed on Homezetu — they carry professional credentials.
Never wire money internationally without visiting the property via video call first.
Request a legal conveyancer based in Kenya to handle land transactions.
Insist on a written sale agreement before any payment — signed, witnessed, and stamped.
Check land parcels on the Ardhisasa portal (lands.go.ke) for ownership records.
Video call tours are good first steps — but have a trusted person visit physically before final payment.
Report it immediately. We investigate all reports within 24 hours and remove fraud listings fast. Your report protects other users.
Report to Homezetu