Stamp Duty Calculator
Kenya property & land transfer · 4% urban / 2% rural · Total closing cost estimate 🇰🇪
Stamp duty on property in Kenya
The stamp duty calculator estimates the tax and total closing cost when buying property or land in Kenya. Stamp duty is 4% of the value for urban/municipal properties and 2% for rural, plus 0.1% on any mortgage charge, always paid by the buyer, due within 30 days of the transfer.
Beyond stamp duty, the calculator adds the typical legal fees (per the Advocates Remuneration Order), valuation and registration costs, so you see the full closing cost, usually 5–7% of the property value, before you commit. Essential for budgeting a land or house purchase accurately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current stamp duty rate in Kenya?
4% of property value for urban/municipal properties and 2% for rural properties. The rate is calculated on the assessed market value, NOT the agreed selling price. For mortgages, an additional 0.1% stamp duty applies on the charge instrument (the loan amount).
How do I know if my property is urban or rural?
Check the Kenya Gazette list of municipalities and townships. Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Thika, Machakos, Kiambu, Kajiado urban centres are all 4%. Properties in pure rural sub-counties are 2%. In April 2024, the government reclassified several previously rural areas as urban, so verify with the Ministry of Lands valuer if borderline.
Who pays the stamp duty, buyer or seller?
In Kenya, the buyer always pays stamp duty. The seller pays Capital Gains Tax (CGT) at 15% on any gain. Both fees are due before transfer registration at the Lands Registry.
What other costs are there besides stamp duty?
Beyond stamp duty, budget for: Legal fees (1-2% of property value, by Advocates Remuneration Order), Valuation fee (~KES 25,000-50,000 by a registered valuer), Land Rent Clearance (varies by county), Registration fee (~KES 500-1,000), and Search fees. Total closing costs are typically 5-7% of property value.
When is stamp duty due?
Stamp duty must be paid within 30 days of execution of the transfer document (signed sale agreement). After 30 days, KRA imposes a penalty of 5% of the unpaid duty plus 1% per month for as long as it remains unpaid.