Serviced Plots in Kenya: Are They Worth the Higher Price?

By Team Makao on 11/10/2025

Explaining what serviced plots include — water, roads, sewer — and their long-term value

Imagine buying land in Nairobi, Kiambu, or Nakuru where roads are already paved, water flows from your tap, and streetlights line your driveway before you even break ground. That's the promise of serviced plots — convenience, speed, and peace of mind. But with price tags often 20% to 40% higher than raw land, many Kenyan buyers ask: Are serviced plots really worth it?

This guide explores what serviced plots include, why they cost more, and whether the long-term benefits justify the premium.

What Are Serviced Plots?

Serviced plots are pieces of land that come with essential infrastructure already installed. Unlike "raw" or "unserviced" land, where you have to develop everything yourself, these plots are development-ready.

Typical services include:

Access roads – graded or tarmacked internal roads.
Water connection – piped water supply from boreholes or county mains.
Sewer or drainage system – either connected to a main line or a septic system.
Electricity and street lighting – power poles and meters ready for connection.
Perimeter fencing and security – controlled access gates and boundary walls.
Title deeds and planning approvals – documentation and zoning done upfront.

In essence, serviced plots remove the hassle and hidden costs of land development — ideal for people who want to build immediately or invest in fast-appreciating property.

Why Are Serviced Plots More Expensive?

Serviced plots usually cost more per acre or per 1/8th acre than unserviced ones. Developers factor in the cost of infrastructure, approvals, and utilities, which can significantly raise the price.

Here's a simple breakdown:

Feature	Serviced Plot	Unserviced Plot
Roads	Graded/tarmacked	None or rough tracks
Water	Piped supply	Buyer must drill borehole
Sewer	Connected to main/septic	Buyer must construct
Electricity	On-site connection	Buyer applies independently
Ready to build?	Yes	Not immediately
Average price (per 1/8 acre in Nairobi suburbs)	KSh 3M–6M	KSh 1.8M–3M

While the upfront cost is higher, serviced plots can offer better long-term returns, especially in urban growth zones where infrastructure is key to value appreciation.

Long-Term Value: Why Serviced Plots Can Be a Smart Investment

Faster Development and Occupancy
You can start building right away — no waiting for utilities or county approvals. For real estate investors, that means faster project turnover and quicker returns.
Higher Appreciation Rates
Well-serviced estates often attract middle-class buyers and developers, driving up demand. In areas like Ruiru, Kitengela, and Ngong, serviced plots have appreciated by 15–25% annually, outperforming unserviced plots nearby.
Lower Hidden Costs
With unserviced plots, you'll spend extra on boreholes, septic tanks, fencing, and road access. These costs can quietly exceed the "savings" from buying cheaper land.
Easier Financing and Resale
Banks and SACCOs are more willing to finance serviced plots because they come with clear titles and infrastructure. They also resell faster due to ready-to-build status.
Better Community Planning
Developers of serviced estates often enforce zoning and building guidelines that preserve aesthetics and property values. You're less likely to wake up to a noisy garage or kiosk next door.

Potential Downsides to Watch Out For

While serviced plots offer many benefits, there are also a few cautionary points:

Higher Initial Cost: The entry price can be prohibitive for first-time buyers.
Estate Restrictions: Controlled developments may limit design freedom or business use.
Maintenance Fees: Some gated serviced estates charge service fees for road or security upkeep.
Developer Integrity: Always verify the developer's reputation, approvals, and title documents to avoid scams.

Where to Find Genuine Serviced Plots in Kenya

Kenya's demand for serviced plots is booming, especially around major urban growth corridors. Popular locations include:

Kiambu County – Ruiru, Kamakis, Juja Farm, Thika Road bypass.
Machakos County – Katani, Syokimau, Mavoko, and Malaa.
Kajiado County – Kitengela, Ngong, and Rongai.
Nakuru County – Lanet, Bahati, and along the Nakuru–Nairobi Highway.

Many trusted developers now list verified serviced plots on platforms like Makaobora.com, complete with photos, amenities, and title status. Always cross-check details before payment and, if possible, visit the site in person.

Final Verdict: Are Serviced Plots Worth It?

Yes — if you value time, convenience, and guaranteed infrastructure, serviced plots are worth the higher price. They provide long-term stability, faster development timelines, and stronger appreciation potential, especially in Kenya's expanding urban belts.

However, buyers on tight budgets or those with long-term investment horizons might still prefer raw land — provided they factor in the cost of future infrastructure.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your investment goal:

Buy serviced plots if you plan to build or develop soon.
Buy unserviced plots if you're speculating on long-term land value growth.

Looking for Verified Serviced Plots?

Browse Makaobora.com for authentic listings of serviced and unserviced plots across Kenya — with full descriptions, pricing, and direct developer contacts.
Start your search today and take the guesswork out of property investment.