What is the Cheapest Type of House to Build in Kenya?

Building a home is a significant investment, but with proper planning, it doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re looking to build a house in Kenya on a budget, certain house types and building strategies can drastically cut costs while delivering comfort and durability.

Factors That Influence House Construction Costs in Kenya

Before diving into the cheapest house types, it’s important to understand the factors affecting building costs in Kenya:

1. Location: Construction materials and labor costs vary depending on your location. Urban areas like Nairobi or Mombasa are generally more expensive.
2. Size: Smaller houses are more affordable to build due to reduced material and labor requirements.
3. Materials: The type of materials you choose greatly impacts cost. Locally sourced materials are generally more affordable.
4. Design Complexity: Simple designs with fewer architectural details are cheaper to construct.
5. Labor: Hiring experienced but affordable local labor can reduce costs.

Cheapest Types of Houses to Build in Kenya

1. Mabati Houses

Mabati (corrugated iron sheet) houses are among the cheapest types of homes to construct in Kenya. They use affordable materials and require minimal construction time.

• Advantages:
  • Low cost of materials.
  • Quick to build.
  • Durable if properly maintained.
• Estimated Cost: Ksh 200,000 – Ksh 500,000 for a small two-room structure.

2. Stone Houses with Compressed Earth Blocks

Building with locally available stones or compressed earth blocks reduces the need for imported or expensive materials. These houses are eco-friendly and cost-effective.

• Advantages:
  • Durable and energy-efficient.
  • Aesthetic natural finish.
• Estimated Cost: Ksh 1.5 million – Ksh 2.5 million for a standard 2-bedroom house.

3. Prefabricated Houses

Prefabs are growing in popularity due to their cost-effectiveness and speed of construction. These houses are pre-manufactured and assembled on-site.

• Advantages:
  • Shorter construction time.
  • Minimal waste.
  • Cost savings on labor.
• Estimated Cost: Ksh 800,000 – Ksh 2 million depending on size and design.

4. Container Homes

Shipping container homes are modern, affordable, and eco-friendly. By repurposing old shipping containers, you save on construction materials.

• Advantages:
  • Sustainable and trendy.
  • Structurally strong.
  • Cost-effective for small homes.
• Estimated Cost: Ksh 800,000 – Ksh 3 million depending on the size and finish.

5. Earthbag or Rammed Earth Homes

Earthbag construction is an ancient technique that’s gaining traction in Kenya due to its affordability and sustainability.

• Advantages:
  • Uses readily available materials like soil and sand.
  • Excellent insulation.
• Estimated Cost: Ksh 500,000 – Ksh 1.5 million for a basic structure.

Cost-Cutting Tips When Building a House in Kenya

1. Choose a Simple Design: Avoid complex shapes or intricate features.
2. Source Local Materials: Use locally available materials to cut transport costs.
3. Do-It-Yourself (DIY): Handle minor tasks like painting to save on labor costs.
4. Hire Professionals: Invest in skilled labor to avoid costly mistakes.
5. Plan for Efficiency: Build smaller rooms with multi-purpose functions to reduce construction costs.

How Fincare Investments Can Help

At Fincare Investments, we guide you through affordable house-building options tailored to your budget. Whether you need advice on materials, contractors, or innovative house designs, our team is here to assist. We connect you to the right resources, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective building process.

Contact us today for personalized advice and support to make your dream of owning a home in Kenya a reality.