The phrase “serviced plot” has become common in Kenya but what does it really mean?
According to http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/serviced?s=t the term serviced means: the supplying or supplier of utilities or commodities, as water, electricity, or gas, required or demanded by the public.
The supply of these amenities goes beyond the basic needs of an estate and may include roads, water treatment plant, surface water drainage, landscaping, and the list goes on. Consequently, the supply of these amenities derives the phrases “fully serviced plots” and “semi-serviced plots”.
These amenities in Kenya are either provided by the three classes of National Government, County Governments, or by private developers who come up with projects that have factored in the cost of supplying these amenities.
What should a buyer look for when buying a serviced plot?
Basic needs
Every community has basic needs, and with the change of time, some secondary needs are quickly turning into basic needs e.g., Security was once well catered for by the government, but now we have to reinforce security on our own, hence, the popularity of gated communities and sophisticated security installations are increasing. People are looking for an enclosure where traffic can be monitored effectively and the cost shared among residents. Kenyans are shying away from developing a home in isolated locations; therefore, before buying a piece of land for building a home, it is important to note the basic needs and the period of time within which both the basic and secondary needs will be met.
National and County Governments
Some major infrastructure developments require the input of the National and county governments. Until recently, Kenyans had zero confidence in the promises given by the said governments, hence why private developers had to step in. Every county is now under public scrutiny to ensure they deliver on their promises. Nevertheless, the private developers’ “serviced plots/projects” are more popular with investors.
Extras
Private developers can offer extras that guarantee buyers a return on their investment. These extra features create an ideal neighbourhood for a dream home, and they range widely depending on the target market. They may consist of:
- Golf course
- Boulevards & street scapes
- Recreation parks
- Unique house designs
- Cabro roads
- Internet infrastructure
- Health & recreation
- Commercial nodes
- Educational centers
- Social infrastructure
Nairobi, Kiambu, and Mombasa, just to name a few, are places where you can find these serviced plots projects
