Why you Need a Site Visit Before Buying a plot in Joska:
Why you Need a Site Visit Before Buying a plot in Joska:
The Critical Importance of a Site Visit Before Buying a Plot in Joska
Joska, located near Mlolongo along Mombasa Road, is an up and coming area that has caught the attention of Nairobi home buyers and real estate investors. This locality in Machakos County is attracting buyers with its affordable land rates, about 20km proximity to Nairobi CBD, and upcoming infrastructure developments.
As an investor, you may be tempted to purchase a plot here based on online listings, photos and seller promises alone. However, real estate experts strongly emphasize conducting a site visit before buying any plot in Joska. Let’s discuss why an in-person inspection is a must.
Benefits of Site Visit Before Buying a Plot
Verify Location
Online listings may incorrectly mark distances and borders. Visiting the site will allow you to check if the plot is correctly located as advertised in Joska and not a different neighboring area. Physically tracing the boundaries prevents misunderstandings later.
Check Accessibility
Though Joska is along Mombasa Road, some pockets may have infrastructure challenges. Assess if the plot is easily accessible by public or private transport before purchase. Also check road conditions in rainy seasons.
Sense the Area Potential
Observe the rate of development and construction around the plot. Are there many upcoming individual homes and investor developments? This gives a sense of the area’s growth potential for your investment.
Assess Neighboring Structures & Encroachment
Do a walk around the plot and observe any encroaching structures or developments on adjacent plots. Check if the plot boundaries are clearly defined without any illegal constructions.
Gauge Infrastructure Progress
Note the availability of electricity poles, water lines and street lights around the plot. Also inspect progress of upcoming amenities like roads within the project. This gives realistic timelines for your construction plans.
Clarify Site Conditions
Note whether the plot has any easements, wetlands or debris that are not apparent in listing photos. Check if the site needs clearing or filling to be construction-ready.
What to Look Out For During Plot Site Visit
Red Flags Signaling Potential Issues
– Sellers rushing the site visit or avoiding access to certain plot areas
– Visible boundary corner marker tampering or encroachments
– Stalled construction on adjacent plots
– Poor road access especially in rainy season
– Lack of electricity poles and water lines
– Presence of wetlands, easements or debris
– Limited development activity in the locality
– Plots too small or irregularly shaped per listed size
Positive Signs Indicating Growth Potential
– Ongoing construction of roads, drainage and other infrastructure
– Presence of approved developers and projects nearby
– Several completed or ongoing constructions in the area
– Clearly defined plot corners and boundaries
– Individual plot sizes matching advertised details
– No visible encumbrances or hindrances
– Easy accessibility even during rains
– Indications of upcoming amenities like street lights
Documents to Carry for Site Visit
– Original plot allotment letter or sale agreement
– Approved project plan showing exact plot location
– Plot number reference from developer
– Previous land survey maps if available
– Government issued ID for identification
– Contact details of seller or agent
– Photocopies of title deed if purchased resale plot
– Notebook to note down site observations
Questions to Ask During Physical Inspection
**Regarding Plot Boundaries:**
– Does the site match the boundaries as per allotment letter?
– Are all corner pins present and intact?
– Are there any visible encroachments by other structures?
– Do adjacent plot boundaries seem clearly defined?
**About Infrastructure Progress:**
– When will electricity and water supply be provided?
– What is the project timeline for road construction?
– Are drainage plans approved and underway?
– Any upcoming nearby amenities like street lighting?
**Concerning Construction:**
– Are there any easements, debris or hindrances?
– Does the site require clearing or filling before construction?
– What are the requirements for construction approvals?
– Who sanctions the building plans – county or developer?
**Regarding Area Development:**
– What is the completion status of overall project?
– How many plots already have active construction?
– Are there other upcoming developments nearby?
– Is construction hampered by any developer issues?
jurisdictional Matters to Verify
– Confirm if the plot falls under Machakos County jurisdiction
– Land rates applicable for the specific location
– Approving authority for construction permissions
– Rules regarding minimum development timelines
– Requirements for impact assessment or environment clearances
Getting Support For Site Inspection
Involve an Advocate
Engage an experienced real estate advocate to review documents and visit the site for professional guidance. They can assess any red flags and advise accordingly.
Appoint Technical Experts
A land surveyor can inspect and verify plot boundaries on-site. Engineers can evaluate terrain conditions, water table and other aspects.
Discuss With Locals
Interact with locals to get their first-hand experiences of electricity and water supply, drainage etc. in the area. They can provide unbiased insights.
Coordinate With Realtors
Registered real estate agents familiar with Joska can arrange site visits and provide insights on plot viability based on location.
Request Seller Support
Most genuine sellers will gladly accompany you and provide any access required during site visit to facilitate your purchase decision.
Conclusion
While Joska offers the allure of affordable land rates, undisclosed challenges could burden your investment if due diligence is not undertaken. As the adage goes, seeing is believing – no amount of paperwork or assurances can substitute actually visiting the plot before purchase.
Use the site inspection to gauge the locality, verify plot attributes and evaluate overall viability aligned with your goals. This rigorous examination can prevent potentially costly surprises and disappointments later. Stay prudent by investing the time and effort into a comprehensive site visit before buying your plot in Joska.
FAQs
**Q: How much time should I set aside for the plot site visit?**
Allocate at least 1-2 hours for inspecting the plot thoroughly, interacting with locals and related diligence. Avoid rushed visits.
**Q: Can I visit the site without the seller or agent?**
It is best to coordinate with the seller and visit together for proper access. Independently accessing fenced plots may raise suspicion.
**Q: What if I cannot personally visit from my hometown?**
You can appoint a trusted relative or real estate advisor residing in Nairobi to visit on your behalf before confirming any purchase.
**Q: Are site visits also needed for plot resales?**
Yes, to inspect and ensure there are no encumbrances or boundary issues caused by previous owners that are not apparent on paper.
**Q: Does a site visit approval mean I must buy the plot?**
No, a site visit primarily aids your evaluation process. You have no obligation to purchase if you find deal-breaking challenges during inspection.
**Q: Can I use videos or drone footage instead of physically visiting?**
While useful, videos do not provide the insights gained from personally experiencing site accessibility, dimensions and surrounding development.
**Q: What safety precautions should I take during site visit?**
Avoid carrying large cash amounts or valuables. Be wary of offers to visit deserted/isolated plots alone. Having a companion is ideal.
**Q: Are multiple visits recommended before purchasing?**
One comprehensive visit is usually sufficient unless you want to observe progress and compare findings across some weeks before deciding.
