When looking for a house in Nairobi, below are the factors to consider:
- Proximity to the road
- Size of the house
- Cost of the house and your budget
- Why the previous tenant left
- Relationship between the landlord and tenants
- Security
- Availability of water
- Hidden charges
- The quality of the house and finishing
- Exit terms
- Access to natural light
- Rules in the building
- Location of the house
The first thing to consider is security. Make sure the area is very secure. Size of the house will also matter a lot. You should also consider the relationship of the tenants and the owner or agent. If they treat their clients well, then rent the house.
Another thing that is important is natural light. There are houses which don’t allow natural light to the rooms, forcing one to switch on lights even during the day.
Location of the house is important too. Make sure that you rent a house where others with financial muscle as yours live. Don’t rent a house where you are surrounded by poor people when your income is high.
Before renting a house, you should know why the previous tenants left—maybe the house is haunted or the previous tenant was attacked by thieves.
Ensure there is plenty of water and good drainage system. Ask other tenants how often they receive water before renting a house there.
Rent amount to pay for the house. Don’t overstretch—pay what you can afford.