To legally operate as a real estate agent or property dealer in Kenya, you must be registered and licensed under the Land Act (2012) and regulated by the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK). A real estate license ensures professionalism, builds client trust, and keeps you compliant with national property laws.
Without a valid license, you risk fines, legal action, or being barred from listing properties with reputable developers and portals.
Who Needs a Real Estate License in Kenya?
- Property Agents – Individuals selling or leasing land and buildings for commission.
- Real Estate Brokers – Those managing multiple agents or running an agency.
- Property Managers – Professionals handling rental collections and maintenance on behalf of owners.
Exemptions apply to property owners selling their own land and lawyers acting under client instruction.
How to Get a Real Estate License in Kenya (Step-by-Step)
1. Meet the Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a KCSE certificate (C+ or above) or equivalent
- Complete a recognized real estate training course (e.g., ISK Certificate in Real Estate Practice)
- Have no criminal record (apply for a Certificate of Good Conduct)
2. Attend a Certified Training Program
Enroll in a 4–6 week course offered by:
- Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK)
- Kenya School of Property Valuation and Development (KSPVD)
- Accredited private academies (e.g., Real Estate Training Centre Kenya)
Course covers: land law, property marketing, ethics, commission structures, and valuation basics.
3. Register with ISK
After training:
- Submit your certificate, ID, photos, and application form to ISK
- Pay the registration fee (currently around KSh 5,000–7,000)
- Sign the ISK Code of Conduct
4. Receive Your License
Once approved, you’ll get:
- A license number
- A certificate of registration
- Inclusion in the public ISK agents’ directory
Your license must be renewed annually with a fee and proof of continuing professional development (CPD).
Benefits of Being a Licensed Agent
- ✅ Legal compliance – Avoid penalties under the Land Act
- ✅ Access to MLS – Join Multiple Listing Services and property networks
- ✅ Trust from clients – Show your license to build credibility
- ✅ Work with top developers – HassConsult, Acorn, and Bloom Court only partner with licensed agents
- ✅ Open your own agency – Required for brokerage registration
Penalties for Operating Without a License
Under Section 83 of the Land Act:
- Unlicensed agents face fines up to KSh 500,000
- Or imprisonment up to 5 years
- Or both
County governments and ISK conduct regular crackdowns, especially in high-traffic areas like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Ruiru.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to get a real estate license in Kenya?
A: 6–10 weeks on average—4–6 weeks for training, plus 1–2 weeks for ISK processing.
Q: Can I get a real estate license online in Kenya?
A: Training can be done online, but registration with ISK requires in-person submission or courier of documents.
Q: Is the ISK real estate license valid nationwide?
A: Yes, it’s the only nationally recognized license for real estate practitioners in Kenya.
