Two roads diverged in a wood and I – I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference. ~Robert Frost
Once you choose to construct a home back home, the next immediate step is to identify how to start. Most people rely on relatives or friends living within Kenya to select a site (location) , obtain designs and construct the home. In order to ensure that the building commences and progresses smoothly they periodically send money home. This arrangement has worked for some but an increasing group of diaspora get conned by their own family members because of poor workmanship or non-existent projects. Family ties prevent them from taking legal action against them. Today we advice you on how to avoid these problems.
1. Let Professionals Handle your Project:
Building professionals ensure a number of things. First, by appointing a team of professional contractors, you benefit from expert advice in design, construction, costs and all other aspects of the project including legal standing.Building professionals also ensure that the quality of workmanship in construction is upheld. They become your eyes and ears on the ground.
Letting professionals handle your project also enables you to easily acquire mortgage if need be, from lending institutions In Kenya, a registered architect and some instances, a registered engineer is required for all projects.
2. Don’t Send down all the Money at Once:
For construction projects, it is smart to remit funds gradually as opposed to in lump sums. The reasoning is this: the risk of loss of funds in unscrupulous deals is reduced.
3. Conduct due diligence
Always make an effort to verify all project details. These details include:the validity of issued certificates, the evidence of the construction site, the status of the project and the reputation of the contractors.
4. Stay connected with your local team
Keep constant communication with your local contractors. Make an effort to visit the site at least once a year, to assess the situation on the ground. Keep your eyes on your investment!
5. Retain all relevant documents
Your property documents are what you need and will stand proof of ownership in case of legal tussle or private incursions. Examples may include the title deed/settlement agreement or share certificate for the land, the architectural & structural documents and significant agreements.
In KENYA?
You may find the paper below particularly useful.
The Cost of building works paper can be downloaded below
Average Build Cost Guide>> CALCULATOR