Why Standalone Houses Are Becoming More Expensive While Apartment Prices Are Falling

• According to the latest Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) Residential Property Price Index for the first quarter of 2026, residential property prices increased by 4.8% compared to the same period last year.
• A few years ago, apartments became the preferred choice for many homebuyers.
• In areas where supply is outpacing demand, sellers may need to become more competitive on pricing, which can slow price growth or even lead to slight declines.
• If you’re looking for value and negotiating power, apartments may offer attractive opportunities in certain locations.

Every few months, property reports give us a snapshot of how Kenya’s housing market is performing. But beyond the numbers lies an interesting story about changing buyer preferences.

According to the latest Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) Residential Property Price Index for the first quarter of 2026, residential property prices increased by 4.8% compared to the same period last year. However, not all homes are following the same trend.

While standalone houses continue to appreciate in value, apartment prices have begun to soften. So, what’s driving this shift?

READ ALSO: Future of Real Estate: Trends Redefining the Kenyan Market

Buyers are prioritising space over convenience

A few years ago, apartments became the preferred choice for many homebuyers. They offered affordability, security and proximity to workplaces, especially in areas like Kilimani, Kileleshwa and Westlands.

Today, priorities are changing.

More buyers are looking for larger homes with private outdoor space, extra parking, home offices and room for growing families. These are features that standalone homes are more likely to offer.

As flexible working arrangements become more common, living a little further from the city is no longer the deal-breaker it once was.

Increased apartment supply is creating more choices

Another factor influencing prices is supply.

Over the past decade, developers have invested heavily in apartment developments across Nairobi and its surrounding suburbs. As more units enter the market, buyers have more options to choose from.

In areas where supply is outpacing demand, sellers may need to become more competitive on pricing, which can slow price growth or even lead to slight declines.

For buyers, this presents an opportunity to negotiate better deals, particularly in locations with a high concentration of apartment developments.

Standalone homes remain in limited supply

Unlike apartments, standalone homes are becoming increasingly scarce, particularly in well-established neighbourhoods.

With limited land available for new developments in many parts of Nairobi, existing houses continue to attract strong demand from families and long-term investors.

Basic economics comes into play: when demand remains high and supply is limited, prices tend to rise.

Infrastructure is opening up new opportunities

Improved road networks are also changing where people choose to live.

Areas that were once considered too far from the city are becoming increasingly attractive thanks to improved connectivity.

This has made standalone homes in satellite towns and emerging suburbs more accessible, giving buyers the opportunity to enjoy more space without sacrificing convenience.

What does this mean for buyers?

The latest KNBS data doesn’t suggest that one property type is better than the other. Instead, it highlights that the market is evolving.

If you’re looking for value and negotiating power, apartments may offer attractive opportunities in certain locations.

If you’re buying for long-term family living or capital appreciation, standalone homes continue to show resilience.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget and long-term goals, not just market trends.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for an apartment close to the city or a standalone family home in a growing suburb, understanding market trends can help you make a more informed decision. Explore verified property listings across Kenya on BuyRentKenya and compare options that match your budget and lifestyle.

READ ALSO: Gated Communities vs. Standalone Homes: Pros and Cons in Kenya