Author: A4KENYA

  • Kenya Real Estate – Top 6 Things to Consider Before You Buy a Piece of Land

    Kenya Real Estate – Top 6 Things to Consider Before You Buy a Piece of Land

    Kenya real estate investment offers you numerous options. Buying land is one of the, Here are some factors that you need to look into before you buy Land in Kenya.

    Developmental Outlook:
    Are you buying land for residential or commercial purposes? Do you want to build your home, flats to rent or shops to let? Your answer to these questions may determine the location of the land you should buy. For instance, if you want to build flats to let, consider areas with close local facilities such as supermarkets, schools and health care facilities. Many families prefer to live only a couple of miles from their children’s school. This will therefore affect where they rent a house.

    Location:
    You have heard it before – location, location, location. It affects price considerable. Half an acre of land may cost 10 times more in Runda compared to Embakasi area. However, Embakasi is closer to the airport compared to Runda. The location of the land you wish to purchase should indeed conform to your Kenya real estate development objectives.

    Distance from the Main Road:
    The further out you go from the main road, the cheaper the parcel of land. However, security may also be compromised. If you are buying land with the objective of building rental property, you may have to contend with lesser amount of rental income if you build far out from the main road. I was looking for a house to rent recently and I settled for a smaller property that was closer to the main road rather than a bigger one further out.

    Access to Water, Electricity and Telephone Lines:
    Some Kenya real estate areas such as Kitengela are not very developed and may lack electricity and telephone lines as well as piped water. Lack of these facilities makes the land cheaper though, but at what cost. My mum bought a couple of acres in Kitengela and had to sink her own borehole and pump water into the house. She also had to apply for electricity from Kenya Power and Lighting Company. Luckily for her, it turned out to be a hassle free process. It is cheaper to buy land in such areas but you must be prepared to bear the extra costs and delays. Sometimes, like in my mum’s case, it proved worthwhile.

    Soil Texture:
    Well, believe it or not, soil texture does affect Kenya real estate value. Areas with black cotton soil tend to be cheaper as compared to red soil regions. For instance, parts of Mombasa road have black cotton soil and can not be compared to red soil areas such as Karen, Muthaiga or Runda. Soil texture also affects building costs.

    Sewer Location:
    Some areas have sewer restrictions and thus not suitable for certain types of Kenya real estate development. Developments along the famous Ngong Road have been restricted dues to the overloaded sewer. If you intend to build an apartment complex for sale or to let, you have to check the sewer restrictions as well as other planning restrictions issued by the local council.

    With this factors are all put in consideration, purchasing land in Kenya should be smooth sailing.

    Margaret Nguyo is the web editor for My Kenya Guide. She has written invaluable tips on investing in Kenya real estate. Get them here – http://www.my-kenya-guide.com/kenya-real-estate.html

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maggie_Nguyo

  • Zuri Group Plans Rs 700Cr Investment In Hotels, Realty

    By: zameensapna


    Zuri Group Global, which is present in the high-end hotel, real estate and floricul- ture sectors, has announced plans to invest Rs 700 crore in hospitality and real estate ventures.

    Zuri will invest Rs 400 crore in setting up two five star lux- ury hotels in Bangalore and Nairobi in Kenya, and Rs 300 crore in its 250-acre premium villa-cum-apartment project in Goa.

    “Both the hotels would com- plete within 20 months. The new 160-room hotel at Bangalore is near the airport and it would be a mix use proj- ect on six acres,” said Bobby Kamani, managing director, Zuri Group Global.

    “We have started work on the 150-room hotel in Nairobi and we are waiting for final clear- ances for the villa project in Goa to begin work,” he said.

    The group is backed by a con- sortium of investors from the Middle East and so far has invested over Rs 900 crore in India. It has properties in India, Kenya and UK, including four hotels in India which are run under the brand name of Zuri.

    Apart from organic growth, Zuri now plans to grow aggres- sively through management contracts. “Though (we are) very young, hotel owners are coming to us to run their proj- ects. Two hotels in Sikkim and Kolkata have been finalised while one in Hyderabad is at an advanced stage,” said Kamani. “We are very keen to have a presence in Delhi and Mumbai and are looking for hotels either through management contracts or outright lease,” he said.

    Kamani said Zuri hotels, which started only last year after taking back properties from foreign hotel chains, is fast catching up among upwardly mobile corporate executives and visitors, who seek value for money luxury service.

    The group, which has 250 hectares of land in Kenya pro- ducing 150 million roses a year for the export markets of UK and Dubai, is also expanding its wind energy business in India and geo-thermal energy busi- ness in Kenya.

    The group employs over 2,100 people globally including 1,200 in India and wants to meet its capital investment through a mix of debt and equity.

    “We see tremendous busi- ness opportunity here; that is why my cousin Abhishek and I shifted to India five years back to grow the group’s business.
    We have seen growth even dur- ing recession and we will invest heavily as we are impatient to grow,” said Kamani, who was born and brought up in Kenya.

    Courtesy:- HT Business  dt:- 06-April-2010

    For more information about real estate, real estate india, Indian real estate, property, property in india, Indian property, property for rent, rented property, apartment for rent, rented apartment, flats for rent, rented flats in delhi, property for sale in delhi, apartments for sale in delhi, flats for sale in delhi  homes for sale in noida, flats for sale in noida, real estate in noida, investment option in noida, real estate consultant in noida, realty firm houses in noida, residence in noida, residence in delhi, residence in gurgaon, flats for rent in gurgaon Log in to http://www.zameen-zaidad.com/

    And http://www.propertycafeteria.com

    About the Author

    hi i am sapna. i am working in bhardwaj buildtech ovt.ltd company.

    (ArticlesBase SC #2117112)

    Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/Zuri Group Plans Rs 700Cr Investment In Hotels, Realty

  • Investors know what’s happening in Nairobi, Kenya

    By: aaron

    If you are a Real Estate investor in Kenya, it pays to keep your eyes on what’s happening in your local area. Just take Nairobi for example, prices of land in Karen or Riverside often out way the house on the plot. The wise investor watches for changes in businesses and amenities that can affect the future equity of Real Estate in the area. There is definitely an opportunity to buy investment Real Estate with either an eye to selling in the future or renting.

    Is it now officially a Buyer’s Market? …….who knows the answer to that question.

    Nairobi is currently experiencing some of the best Real Estate situations in Kenya, with developers and investors making favourable profits, normally through large apartments or spacious office complexes. But with most cycles a down turn is never far away. However always remember that investors play the long game and usually never commit totally in one project. When the climate changes to a buyer’s market most investors decide to rent property that keeps on putting money in your pocket. Alternatively go for a quick sale and settle for a more modest profit than hoped for.

    Monitor local improvements in Nairobi, Kenya

    There are many developments and expansions you should be monitoring, shopping centres, popular restaurants, coffee shops, medical facilities, schools and recreation facilities. Keep your eyes opened for deals and be ready to take advantage of them before local improvements drive property prices up. Many pundits say the crash is coming soon to Kenya but honestly the tell tell signs are not there in great enough numbers yet. Most Kenyans are playing a waiting game and that means opportunity in the Market as some sellers will play there cards first.

    About the Author

    (ArticlesBase SC #1162062)

    Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/Investors know what’s happening in Nairobi, Kenya

  • LUXURIOUS RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY-MLOLONGO, MOMBASA ROAD

    LUXURIOUS RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY-MLOLONGO, MOMBASA ROAD

    [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T11zCMvZsWg?rel=0&w=480&h=360]

    Click below for Free Youtube Movie Downloaders
    Firefox.
    Internet Explorer
    Opera

    [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AiVTDqYX4Xk&fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0]

    This Housing Project offers 87 houses with 2 types of units to choose from: Gold & Diamond.

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    The project is located directly opposite the newly completed Tamarind Meadows Estate overlooking Mombasa road and has breathtaking views of the Nairobi National park and Ngong Hills in the far background.

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    All the 87 residences in the estate boasts of properly landscaped gardens, Cabbro paved roads, street lighting, paved walkways and a detailed rainwater drainage system.

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    All 87 units have a landscaped front yard that can accommodate parking space for 2 cars and a rear backyard with access from the main house.

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    1.GOLD [30 units]

    From Housing Estate, Mombasa Road

    These units have a plinth area of 142 m2. The ground floor comprises of a spacious Living room, Dining area, toilet, large Kitchen and ServantsQuarters/Guest Bedroom which has the advantage of being accessible from the outside and from the inside.
    The units are detached to offer maximum privacy to the occupants.

    The first floor comprises of 3 No. Bedrooms with the Master bedroom ensuite with a large bathroom.

    GROUND FLOOR PLAN

    From Housing Estate, Mombasa Road

    FIRST FLOOR PLAN

    From Housing Estate, Mombasa Road

    2. DIAMOND [57 units]

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    FRONT VIEW

    These units have a plinth area of 116m2.
    The ground floor comprises of a spacious living room, kitchen, dining area , toilet and Guest Bedroom/Servants Quarters which is accessible both from the outside separate from the main house and inside through the main house.
    The first floor comprises of 3 bedrooms including an ensuite master bedroom.

    These units are 57 No. in total, including 3 units which are detached with an all-round compound.
    Buyers can choose to do away with the Guest Bedroom/SQ and replace it with the Kitchen hence increasing the Living room area.

    GROUND FLOOR PLAN-with Guest Bedroom/SQ

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    GROUND FLOR PLAN-Large Living room without SQ/Guest Bedroom

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    FIRST FLOOR PLAN

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    REAR VIEW

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    FRONT VIEW

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    AERIAL VIEW OF ALL THE 87 UNITS

    From Housing Estate, Mlolongo, Mombasa Road

    For sales inquiries, send email to info@a4architect.com. Telephone +254721410684.
    Frank Gichuhi
    Architect.
    www.a4architect.com

  • Post Format: Aside

    “I never tried to prove nothing, just wanted to give a good show. My life has always been my music, it’s always come first, but the music ain’t worth nothing if you can’t lay it on the public. The main thing is to live for that audience, ’cause what you’re there for is to please the people.”

  • FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR HOTEL DEVELOPMENT AT SOUTH EAST COMMERCIAL PARK, NAIROBI CBD

    FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR HOTEL DEVELOPMENT AT SOUTH EAST COMMERCIAL PARK, NAIROBI CBD

    From Nairobi CBD

    Project: Hotel Development in Kenya, Nairobi-CBD-South East Commercial Park.
    Client: Mr. J M
    Location: Nairobi CBD South East Commercial Park.http://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf
    APRIL 2010

    EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
    This is a project proposal for the construction of a middle class Hotel on a parcel of land situated at Nairobi CBD South East Commercial Park.
    The project has been conceived, designed and will be implemented by www.a4architect.com for Mr. J. M

    The estimated development cost for the project is KES 355,500,000[USD 4,443,750].

    The project completion period shall take 12 months from ground breaking to hand over.

    From Nairobi CBD

    Return on Investment shall be in a period of approximately 1 year.
    Total gross anticipated income per annum including food and beverage sales =388,800,000.00[4,860,000.00]

    From South East Commercial Park-Nairobi CBD

    WWW.A4ARCHITECT.COM
    A4architect is a dynamic property consulting company specializing in providing a one-stop service for the management and development of a variety of property development projects. It provides its clients, who may be property owners, developers or tenants, with the expertise to guide a project through the complex development process from concept through to building completion.
    Depending on the requirements of their client, A4architect can provide a full or partial consulting service. The company’s involvement can vary from sourcing suitable sites, arranging local authority approvals, managing the professional team or providing a complete project management service.
    The principals behind the firm have several years experience in designing and managing to completion several projects of various natures as part of design and implementation teams for leading Project Management firms in Kenya as well as the Government of the Republic of Kenya.

    THE PROJECT
    The project comprises the construction of residential units for at South East Commercial Park, Nairobi on a subdivision measuring just about 0.25 acres.
    The overall theme of the development would be one of maximizing on the plot use whilst maintaining reasonable individual privacy for occupants. The selection of the type and size of units to be erected as well as their layout has been done with the foregoing being foremost -A scenario where the property is developed to target the middle income bracket.

    PHASED CONSTRUCTION
    In order to ease the impact of the overall cost of the development it is proposed to carry out the construction in phases to be jointly agreed on with the client. The project can be phased in terms of vertical floor levels per floor as agreed with the client.
    In order to enable planning of major infrastructural requirements such as water storage and soil water disposal right from the outset, a master plan of the entire development shall be evolved. Thus the capacity of some of the facilities may initially exceed the needs of the accommodation provided, but this would be done with the full knowledge that the development will grow to fully utilize the facilities provided.
    Auxiliary features would include paved driveways and parking, extra water storage and planted landscaped gardens. The country ambience would further be enhanced by having strategically planted trees which would serve the added role of acting as wind breaks.

    DEVELOPMENT BUDGET
    The development budget is as follows:

    80 No. self-contained accommodation rooms per floor for 5 No. Floors=400 No. Accommodation rooms.
    Cost of construction per room fully furnished=KES 40,000 per square meter.
    Area for each unit =16m2.
    Total cost of construction for 400units = KES 256,000,000[USD 3,200,000]
    Cost of construction for Restaurant, Kitchen, Laundry and Offices=
    Restaurant-60m2
    Kitchen=30m2
    Offices-20m2
    Laundry-20m2
    Store-30m2
    Total =160m2.
    Total estimated cost of construction = KES 355,500,000[USD 4,443,750]

    1.00 Building details
    1.10 Type of unit :middle class hotel units.
    1.11 Number of floors :5
    1.12 Number of units in each floor :40
    1.13 Gross floor area per Unit m2: 16
    1.14 Building Cost per m2-fully furnished :40,000
    1.15 Building cost per unit :KES 640,000 [USD 8,000]

    1.16 Overall building cost : KES 260,000,000[USD 3,250,000]

    2.00 Construction cost
    2.10 Preliminaries 6,500,000.00 [USD 81,250] 2.5% of item 1.16
    2.11 Building works KES 260,000,000[USD 3,250,000]
    2.12 Infrastructure 39,000,000.00 [USD 487,500] 15.00% of item 1.16

    2.13 Subtotal – Construction cost 305,500,000.00 [USD 3,818,750]
    3.00 Incidental costs
    3.10 Professional fees 26,000,000.00[USD 325,000] 10.00% of item 1.16

    3.12 Land Cost- [0.25 acres] KES 50,000,000.00 [ USD 625,000]

    OVERALL PROJECT COST 305,500,000.00 + 50,000,000= KES 355,500,000[USD 4,443,750]

    INCOME PROJECTIONS
    1.10 Accomodation Units
    1.11 Projected price/unit per day KES 2,500 [USD 31.25]
    Occupancy rate-90%
    1.12 Overall room sales revenue per month=KES 27,000,000[USD 337,500]
    1.13 Gross anticipated income per annum[room sales] =KES 324,000,000[USD 4,050,000]
    TOTAL GROSS ANTICIPATED INCOME PER ANNUM INCLUDING FOOD AND BEVERAGE SALES =388,800,000.00[4,860,000.00]
    1.14 Return on Investment/Repayment period= Approx. 1 year.

    LOCATION
    South East Commercial Park is a new extension of Nairobi CBD and is situated within Nairobi’s Central Business District along LANDHIES Road. The South East commercial park is served by an all weather road with the site of the proposed construction being found 15 kilometers from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
    South East Commercial Park is connected to the mains water supply from the Nairobi City Council and also has easily connected electricity supply.
    The immediate locality consists of subdivisions each measuring an eighth an acre. Developments in this area are commercial in nature. The majority of the buildings here are well constructed and maintained.

    MARKET DESCRIPTION
    Given the proximity of the site to Nairobi’s CBD as well as the good communication available, the site would realize good returns on a hotel development.
    The site is located 15 km from an International airport and is opposite the largest bus park in East Africa.
    The planned development intends to maximize this potential by creating accommodation that is spacious whilst at the same time making optimum use of the space available.
    Currently, most Hotels in Nairobi CBD experience a near 100% occupancy rate on a daily basis. The planned development would thus meet an existing need.

    COMPETITION
    In the locality of the planned development, there are no hotels which cater for the middle class. The closest competition perhaps comes from the low cost hotels in Gikomba area. These are however not impressive in terms of the room sizes and quality of service offered.

    SALES PROJECTIONS
    It is planned to start marketing the development even as the construction begins.
    The room sale price for each unit has been set at KES 2,500[31.25USD]. This is the average charged by comparable hotels such as Kahama hotel in Ngara and Blue Hut hotel along Park road. The price is justified by the upgraded quality of the planned development in terms of finishes, design, and quality of service.

    EXECUTION OF THE PROJECT
    A4architect will in this provide the client with a full design/build service. This shall include

    1. Design and specification
    Architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical drawings shall be prepared and necessary approvals sought.
    During the various stages of the design, the client shall be kept fully informed and client approval sought prior to proceeding to the next stage. The engineering design shall be done by registered engineers under the guidance of A4architect. Detailed specifications shall be developed with close consultation with the client.

    2. Project estimates
    Subsequent to completion of the design, a firm estimate shall be done for the project

    3. Preparation of tender and contract documents
    After final design has been done and client approval obtained, tender documents shall be drawn up for the general and specialist contractors. The specialist contract documents shall be prepared with guidance from the relevant engineers.

    4. Tendering
    Selected contractors shall be invited to tender for the various work packages. We shall then analyze the tenders returned and forward our recommendation to the client.

    5. Contract documentation
    With the contractors have been selected, we shall draw up the required contract documents and enter into contract with the contractors on the client’s behalf.

    6. Project management
    Subsequent to the contracts being signed and mobilization to the site, we shall provide superintendence and project management. This will entail ensuring that the project is brought in on time and under budget by constant monitoring of operations on site and remedying any issues that may prevent timely completion or cause expenditure to exceed the budget.

    7. Contract administration
    We shall handle all matters relating to the various contracts including but not limited to stage payments, performance bonds, extensions of time and relationships between the various traded involved in the project’s execution.

    8. Sales and marketing
    In conjunction with an estate agency approved by the client, we shall produce a presentation package to be used in the sales and marketing of the units.

    PROJECT TIMELINES
    a) Design to Tender
    The design to tender process will take a total of 2 months. This will include commissioning of all engineering design, preparation of bills of quantities and obtaining of all relevant approvals for the development.
    b) Construction
    Construction of the entire project is estimated to take a maximum of 10 months.

    MARKETING AND SALES
    Marketing of the properties is planned to start even before ground is broken for the start of the construction. This will serve the dual purpose of creating awareness of the availability of quality hotel service and to confirm the validity of the market intelligence.
    A4architect will undertake marketing through the mass media and especially through the internet using a virtual presentation kit that will include a walk through movie of the development.

    FEES STRUCTURE
    Overall fees charged shall be 10% of the final contract sum. The fees shall be spread over the various stages as follows:

    Fees Due
    A
    Inception
    Inception and client brief
    Physical survey and information review
    Sketch design and basic project proposal
    5% of fees.
    B
    Design and design development
    Final design and presentation with budget estimates
    Final specifications
    Engagement of consultants and preparation of electrical, structural and mechanical services
    drawings
    Development approvals
    30% of fees.
    C
    Pre-tender process
    Preparation of tender documents for general and specialist contractors
    Identification of suppliers for client supplied items to be fixed by contractors
    Shortlisting of general and specialist contractors
    10% of fees.
    D
    Tender process
    Tendering for general and specialist contractors
    Tender analysis
    Contract award by client on advice of Project Manager
    15% of fees.
    E
    Project Administration
    Co-ordination meetings conducted by Project Manager
    Close control of work schedule
    Monitoring of quality of works and ensuring compliance with specifications
    15% of fees.
    F
    Project Accounting
    Budget control
    Certification of stage/progress payments
    10% of fees.

    G
    Project closeout
    Completion inspection with client
    Preparation of final account in conjunction with general and specialist contractors
    Preparation of schedule of making good defects
    10% of fees.

    H
    Post contract administration
    Final inspection after elapse of defects liability period
    Confirmation of making good defects after retention period is over
    5% of fees.
    Total
    100% of fees.

    Notes on fees structure
    1. Negotiations and any other work arising from the submission of application to the Local Authority or the submission of application to the local authority of the statutory bodies constitutes additional services to be charged for on a time basis.
    2. Normalization of contract will be by the signing of both copies of a document mutually agreeable to both parties.
    3. Fee notes which will be issued on completion of stage B, C & D respectively. Fee notes for stage (A), & (B) will be based on Project Estimates at those stages.
    4. The payment from stages E to H will be based on the final project costs. These will be paid on a pro-rata basis as the project progresses and will be submitted immediately following the issue of certification of contractor stage payments.
    5. In the event that the client selects a phased implementation of the project, fee notes for stages A, B and C shall be based on the estimated cost for the entire project while fee notes for subsequent phases shall be pro-rated to the value of the phase being implemented.
    6. All fee notes will be processed, authorized and paid within ten calendar days of the fee note date.
    7. Reports or opinions requiring formal client approval are to be discussed and approved within five working days of receipt of the request from the project managers by the client.
    8. Disbursements resulting from the execution of the consultant’s duties including reproduction of drawings and documents, fax messages, traveling and food and accommodation expenses outside Nairobi etc. do not form part of this agreement and will be charged at cost.

    Prepared By
    Frank Gichuhi
    www.a4architect.com
    +254 721 410684
    A4architect.

  • LAND FOR SALE IN NAIROBI CBD SOUTH EAST COMMERCIAL PARK, NAIROBI.

    LAND FOR SALE IN NAIROBI CBD
    [googlemaps http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&gl=us&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=116970983657577589705.00048701e55af63586cc0&t=f&ecpose=-1.29478043,36.83885301,3083.97,-3.542,20.221,0&source=embed&ll=33.504759,31.860352&spn=6.410706,14.084473&output=embed&w=425&h=350]
    SOUTH EAST COMMERCIAL PARK, NAIROBI.

    From Nairobi CBD

    South East Commercial Park is located within Nairobi CBD and has over 140 plots available for sale to developers. These are the only plots for sale available in Nairobi CBD so it gives a great opportunity for a chance to own land and develop commercial property in Nairobi CBD.

    From Nairobi CBD

    Below is a Feasibility study for a Hotel Development project showing Return on Investment of approximately 1 year.

    Project: Hotel Development in Kenya, Nairobi-CBD-South East Commercial Park.
    Client: Mr. J M
    Location: Nairobi CBD South East Commercial Park.

    MAY 2010

    EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
    This is a project proposal for the construction of a middle class Hotel on a parcel of land situated at Nairobi CBD South East Commercial Park.
    The project has been conceived, designed and will be implemented by www.a4architect.com for Mr. J. M

    The estimated development cost for the project is KES 355,500,000[USD 4,443,750].

    The project completion period shall take 12 months from ground breaking to hand over.

    Return on Investment shall be in a period of 1 year.
    Total gross anticipated income per annum including food and beverage sales =388,800,000.00[4,860,000.00]

    From Nairobi CBD

    WWW.A4ARCHITECT.COM
    A4architect is a dynamic property consulting company specializing in providing a one-stop service for the management and development of a variety of property development projects. It provides its clients, who may be property owners, developers or tenants, with the expertise to guide a project through the complex development process from concept through to building completion.
    Depending on the requirements of their client, A4architect can provide a full or partial consulting service. The company’s involvement can vary from sourcing suitable sites, arranging local authority approvals, managing the professional team or providing a complete project management service.
    The principals behind the firm have several years experience in designing and managing to completion several projects of various natures as part of design and implementation teams for leading Project Management firms in Kenya as well as the Government of the Republic of Kenya.

    From Nairobi CBD

    THE PROJECT
    The project comprises the construction of residential units for at South East Commercial Park, Nairobi on a subdivision measuring just about 0.25 acres.
    The overall theme of the development would be one of maximizing on the plot use whilst maintaining reasonable individual privacy for occupants. The selection of the type and size of units to be erected as well as their layout has been done with the foregoing being foremost -A scenario where the property is developed to target the middle income bracket.

    From Nairobi CBD

    PHASED CONSTRUCTION
    In order to ease the impact of the overall cost of the development it is proposed to carry out the construction in phases to be jointly agreed on with the client. The project can be phased in terms of vertical floor levels per floor as agreed with the client.
    In order to enable planning of major infrastructural requirements such as water storage and soil water disposal right from the outset, a master plan of the entire development shall be evolved. Thus the capacity of some of the facilities may initially exceed the needs of the accommodation provided, but this would be done with the full knowledge that the development will grow to fully utilize the facilities provided.
    Auxiliary features would include paved driveways and parking, extra water storage and planted landscaped gardens. The country ambience would further be enhanced by having strategically planted trees which would serve the added role of acting as wind breaks.

    DEVELOPMENT BUDGET
    The development budget is as follows:

    80 No. self-contained accommodation rooms per floor for 5 No. Floors=400 No. Accommodation rooms.
    Cost of construction per room fully furnished=KES 40,000 per square meter.
    Area for each unit =16m2.
    Total cost of construction for 400units = KES 256,000,000[USD 3,200,000]
    Cost of construction for Restaurant, Kitchen, Laundry and Offices=
    Restaurant-60m2
    Kitchen=30m2
    Offices-20m2
    Laundry-20m2
    Store-30m2
    Total =160m2.
    Total estimated cost of construction = KES 355,500,000[USD 4,443,750]

    1.00 Building details
    1.10 Type of unit :middle class hotel units.
    1.11 Number of floors :5
    1.12 Number of units in each floor :40
    1.13 Gross floor area per Unit m2: 16
    1.14 Building Cost per m2-fully furnished :40,000
    1.15 Building cost per unit :KES 640,000 [USD 8,000]

    1.16 Overall building cost : KES 260,000,000[USD 3,250,000]

    2.00 Construction cost
    2.10 Preliminaries 6,500,000.00 [USD 81,250] 2.5% of item 1.16
    2.11 Building works KES 260,000,000[USD 3,250,000]
    2.12 Infrastructure 39,000,000.00 [USD 487,500] 15.00% of item 1.16

    2.13 Subtotal – Construction cost 305,500,000.00 [USD 3,818,750]
    3.00 Incidental costs
    3.10 Professional fees 26,000,000.00[USD 325,000] 10.00% of item 1.16

    3.12 Land Cost- [0.25 acres] KES 50,000,000.00 [ USD 625,000]

    OVERALL PROJECT COST 305,500,000.00 + 50,000,000= KES 355,500,000[USD 4,443,750]

    INCOME PROJECTIONS
    1.10 Accomodation Units
    1.11 Projected price/unit per day KES 2,500 [USD 31.25]
    Occupancy rate-90%
    1.12 Overall room sales revenue per month=KES 27,000,000[USD 337,500]
    1.13 Gross anticipated income per annum[room sales] =KES 324,000,000[USD 4,050,000]
    TOTAL GROSS ANTICIPATED INCOME PER ANNUM INCLUDING FOOD AND BEVERAGE SALES =388,800,000.00[4,860,000.00]
    1.14 Return on Investment/Repayment period= Approx. 1 year.

    LOCATION
    South East Commercial Park is a new extension of Nairobi CBD and is situated within Nairobi’s Central Business District along LANDHIES Road. The South East commercial park is served by an all weather road with the site of the proposed construction being found 15 kilometers from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
    South East Commercial Park is connected to the mains water supply from the Nairobi City Council and also has easily connected electricity supply.
    The immediate locality consists of subdivisions each measuring an eighth an acre. Developments in this area are commercial in nature. The majority of the buildings here are well constructed and maintained.

    MARKET DESCRIPTION
    Given the proximity of the site to Nairobi’s CBD as well as the good communication available, the site would realize good returns on a hotel development.
    The site is located 15 km from an International airport and is opposite the largest bus park in East Africa.
    The planned development intends to maximize this potential by creating accommodation that is spacious whilst at the same time making optimum use of the space available.
    Currently, most Hotels in Nairobi CBD experience a near 100% occupancy rate on a daily basis. The planned development would thus meet an existing need.

    COMPETITION
    In the locality of the planned development, there are no hotels which cater for the middle class. The closest competition perhaps comes from the low cost hotels in Gikomba area. These are however not impressive in terms of the room sizes and quality of service offered.

    SALES PROJECTIONS
    It is planned to start marketing the development even as the construction begins.
    The room sale price for each unit has been set at KES 2,500[31.25USD]. This is the average charged by comparable hotels such as Kahama hotel in Ngara and Blue Hut hotel along Park road. The price is justified by the upgraded quality of the planned development in terms of finishes, design, and quality of service.

    EXECUTION OF THE PROJECT
    A4architect will in this provide the client with a full design/build service. This shall include

    1. Design and specification
    Architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical drawings shall be prepared and necessary approvals sought.
    During the various stages of the design, the client shall be kept fully informed and client approval sought prior to proceeding to the next stage. The engineering design shall be done by registered engineers under the guidance of A4architect. Detailed specifications shall be developed with close consultation with the client.

    2. Project estimates
    Subsequent to completion of the design, a firm estimate shall be done for the project

    3. Preparation of tender and contract documents
    After final design has been done and client approval obtained, tender documents shall be drawn up for the general and specialist contractors. The specialist contract documents shall be prepared with guidance from the relevant engineers.

    4. Tendering
    Selected contractors shall be invited to tender for the various work packages. We shall then analyze the tenders returned and forward our recommendation to the client.

    5. Contract documentation
    With the contractors have been selected, we shall draw up the required contract documents and enter into contract with the contractors on the client’s behalf.

    6. Project management
    Subsequent to the contracts being signed and mobilization to the site, we shall provide superintendence and project management. This will entail ensuring that the project is brought in on time and under budget by constant monitoring of operations on site and remedying any issues that may prevent timely completion or cause expenditure to exceed the budget.

    7. Contract administration
    We shall handle all matters relating to the various contracts including but not limited to stage payments, performance bonds, extensions of time and relationships between the various traded involved in the project’s execution.

    8. Sales and marketing
    In conjunction with an estate agency approved by the client, we shall produce a presentation package to be used in the sales and marketing of the units.

    PROJECT TIMELINES
    a) Design to Tender
    The design to tender process will take a total of 2 months. This will include commissioning of all engineering design, preparation of bills of quantities and obtaining of all relevant approvals for the development.
    b) Construction
    Construction of the entire project is estimated to take a maximum of 10 months.

    MARKETING AND SALES
    Marketing of the properties is planned to start even before ground is broken for the start of the construction. This will serve the dual purpose of creating awareness of the availability of quality hotel service and to confirm the validity of the market intelligence.
    A4architect will undertake marketing through the mass media and especially through the internet using a virtual presentation kit that will include a walk through movie of the development.

    FEES STRUCTURE
    Overall fees charged shall be 10% of the final contract sum. The fees shall be spread over the various stages as follows:

    Fees Due
    A
    Inception
    Inception and client brief
    Physical survey and information review
    Sketch design and basic project proposal
    5% of fees.
    B
    Design and design development
    Final design and presentation with budget estimates
    Final specifications
    Engagement of consultants and preparation of electrical, structural and mechanical services
    drawings
    Development approvals
    30% of fees.
    C
    Pre-tender process
    Preparation of tender documents for general and specialist contractors
    Identification of suppliers for client supplied items to be fixed by contractors
    Short listing of general and specialist contractors
    10% of fees.
    D
    Tender process
    Tendering for general and specialist contractors
    Tender analysis
    Contract award by client on advice of Project Manager
    15% of fees.
    E
    Project Administration
    Co-ordination meetings conducted by Project Manager
    Close control of work schedule
    Monitoring of quality of works and ensuring compliance with specifications
    15% of fees.
    F
    Project Accounting
    Budget control
    Certification of stage/progress payments
    10% of fees.

    G
    Project closeout
    Completion inspection with client
    Preparation of final account in conjunction with general and specialist contractors
    Preparation of schedule of making good defects
    10% of fees.

    H
    Post contract administration
    Final inspection after elapse of defects liability period
    Confirmation of making good defects after retention period is over
    5% of fees.
    Total
    100% of fees.

    Notes on fees structure
    1. Negotiations and any other work arising from the submission of application to the Local Authority or the submission of application to the local authority of the statutory bodies constitutes additional services to be charged for on a time basis.
    2. Normalization of contract will be by the signing of both copies of a document mutually agreeable to both parties.
    3. Fee notes which will be issued on completion of stage B, C & D respectively. Fee notes for stage (A), & (B) will be based on Project Estimates at those stages.
    4. The payment from stages E to H will be based on the final project costs. These will be paid on a pro-rata basis as the project progresses and will be submitted immediately following the issue of certification of contractor stage payments.
    5. In the event that the client selects a phased implementation of the project, fee notes for stages A, B and C shall be based on the estimated cost for the entire project while fee notes for subsequent phases shall be pro-rated to the value of the phase being implemented.
    6. All fee notes will be processed, authorized and paid within ten calendar days of the fee note date.
    7. Reports or opinions requiring formal client approval are to be discussed and approved within five working days of receipt of the request from the project managers by the client.
    8. Disbursements resulting from the execution of the consultant’s duties including reproduction of drawings and documents, fax messages, traveling and food and accommodation expenses outside Nairobi etc. do not form part of this agreement and will be charged at cost.

    Prepared By
    Frank Gichuhi
    www.a4architect.com
    +254 721 410684
    A4architect.

    From Nairobi CBD

    INFRASTRUCTURE SYSTEM WITHIN SOUTH EAST COMMERCIAL PARK

    Existing Traffic System

    Roads

    The site is served by Landhies road on one side and Railway lane on the other.
    The existing road system and road reserve is not adequate to meet the traffic demand envisioned in the site. The existing traffic system will be replaced with a more comprehensive road network.

    Motor Traffic
    The site experiences heavy motor traffic from public service vehicles to and from the Muthurwa bus stage which increases during rush hours in the mornings and evenings.
    Landhies road also has heavy traffic through out the day which peaks during early morning and evenings.

    From Nairobi CBD

    Pedestrian Traffic

    The site experiences heavy pedestrian traffic along Landhies road. Pedestrian walkways along Landhies road will be enhanced. A service lane along Landhies road will be incorporated to as to serve the plots along the busy road..
    The proposed developments will result to heavy pedestrian traffic within the site.

    Proposed Traffic System

    Motor Traffic

    The envisioned developments will result in an increase in motor traffic. An elaborate road network within the site has been laid out. All developments will front a wide road and have a service lane at the back that is 6m wide.
    The main entrance to the site along Landhies road is served by a 25m wide road that connects Landhies road to Railway Lane. This road provides the necessary carriageway to serve the envisioned increase in traffic and also provide adequate off-street parking and road reserve for future expansion. Approximately 190 car parks can be accommodated along this road.

    Another 25m wide road has been proposed between the main entrance road and the KPLC plot-to serve the 2nd row of developments from Landhies road.
    This can accommodate approximately 320 roadside car park spaces.

    A 30m wide road along railway lane is proposed within the site. This can accommodate approximately 550 cars on road-side parking.

    18m wide roads can accommodate approximately 500 cars in roadside angle parking.
    15m wide roads can accommodate an average of 350cars in road-side parking.
    12m wide roads can accommodate 360 cars in roadside parking.
    6m wide roads have been proposed to act as service lanes at the back of each plot. These can accommodate 126 cars in road-side flush parking.
    All these roads will provide an estimated 2400 road-side car park spaces.
    A 0.2 Ha. Plot along Railway lane near the Jogoo road roundabout has been designated for development into a parking silo.
    Another 0.2 Ha. plot along Landhies road near the KPLC plot has also been ear-marked for development into a parking silo.
    A combination of off-street parkings and the two parking silos will adequately cater for the increased vehicular traffic within the site.

    Pedestrian Traffic

    An increase in pedestrian traffic is envisioned within the site.
    The proposed roads have a width of adequate space to cater for concrete pavement pedestrian walk ways on both sides of the road.

    Roads and Access

    Currently the site has only one inlet along Landhies road. 6 new access points have been proposed into the site along Landhies road.

    Currently, the only access into the site along Railway lane is through Muthurwa Bus park.
    8 new access openings have been proposed.

    These access points will reduce any chances of traffic congestions at the entry and exit points during rush hours.
    All developments will be serviced by the main road at the front and a 6m wide service lane at the rear.
    All roads have been proposed to have a 6m wide minimum carriageway with asphaltic concrete surface treatment.
    Street lights have been proposed to be installed along the roads.

    SERVICES AND UTILITIES

    Water Supply.
    The site has an existing water supply from the Nairobi City Council.
    The proposed developments will not be adequately catered by the existing water supply network.
    A new water supply network is proposed to run along the access roads and serve each plot.
    The water will be supplied by Nairobi City Council.

    Foul Water Disposal

    Currently the site is connected to the Nairobi City Council sewer system.
    The proposed developments will not be adequately covered by the existing sewer system.
    A new sewer system is proposed to run along the road reserve to serve each plot and connect to the main Nairobi City Council sewer line.

    Storm Water Drainage

    Currently the site is connected to the Nairobi City Council storm water drainage system.
    The proposed developments will require a new storm water drainage system to be installed. This will connect to the Nairobi City Council storm water drainage system.

    Electricity Supply

    There is already an existing Electricity supply system from KPLC.
    The proposed developments will not be adequately served by the existing power supply system. A new power supply system is proposed to serve each plot.

    Electricity supply is connected to the property and is adequate to meet the demand from the proposed development.

    Telephone and Internet Services

    A fibre-optic underground cable supply network has been proposed to serve the site and will run along the roads on specially constructed ducts to serve each plot.

    Solid Waste Disposal

    Solid waste disposal services are proposed to be provided by the Nairobi City Council and private solid waste disposal companies.

    Frank Gichuhi
    Architect.
    www.a4architect.com
    +254721410684

  • Tips To Help You Buy Investment Multi-Family Apartments

    By: Rudy Silva

    Multi-family Apartments are among the most profitable real estate investments to make today as they promise long-term returns. Irrespective of its type—whether it is townhomes, condos, luxury apartments or lakes apartments, Multifamily Investment will never be out in the business. In contrast, apartments function in two ways. First, multi-family housing can provide apartment dwelling for the Investing family.

    Second, Multi-family apartments can be income apartments. Luxury apartments such as Lake Apartments, Apartments Park, Garden Apartments and River Apartments are very attractive to people who are seeking peaceful and calming dwelling away from the noise of the city. This holds true to individuals who have career in big cities particularly New York. Investment in Multi-family Apartments offer many advantages.

    Foremost, as a real estate investor, Multi-family Investment provides the opportunity to own property at a lower risk with greater leverages as multi-family buildings generate income even when you do not work or out for a vacation with friends or family. It is also easier to manage 12-Unit apartment than managing 10 single home units. Second, Property Management Company assists people who want to invest in multi-family apartments without using their personal cash. In short, it is easier to apply for apartment loans from the banks when it is for multi-family apartments.

    Third, there is the option of raising the value of the investor’s income. The worth of income apartments is based on the rental rate of the multi-family Apartments. The investor may fix his income value by raising the fees while cutting off the expenses. Fourth, Multi-family investment does not give pressure to investors when it comes to competition. The competition is high in single unit home apartments.

    Fourth, there is lesser risk in having several multi residential apartments when it comes to revenues. For example, if the multi-family investor loses two or three tenants out of 12, the losses may not that huge compared when the investment is one single house. Fifth, multi-family buildings can be converted into Condo. For added facilities and amenities therefore, attracts more cash flow, condo apartments provide more comfort to potential dwellers.

    Admittedly, Investment in Multi-family Apartments is not easy as it sound. The decision involves careful planning and precise consideration of few factors. For instance, since multi-family investment is geared toward income-generating venture, it is important to determine the potential income it shall generate and this has to do with the value and location of the property. Company that provides services such as multi-property management will help the multi-family investors to initiate property and revenue reviews.

    Part of the Investment planning is to have financial and marketing analysis. The Financial analysis includes the building maintenance and equipment, title deeds and income tax return of the property especially in the previous three years, insurance policies, litigation history [should there be any], fire systems, utility bills and details on existing liens. The task also involves inspection by the Engineering and Environmental departments respectively.

    None of the above task is hard to do because the investors themselves shall need the services of real estate attorney who will do the process for them. The marketing analysis of Multi-family Apartments is to create marketing strategy to maximize the revenues and multi-family investment returns.

     

    About the Author

    If you need more ideas about multi-family apartments, we can provide you more information. We can be your help to deepen your knowledge about apartment business ventures. We can you tips to help you start this investing venture. Visit our site at apartment building to scan our many useful articles about multi-apartment investing. Investing in apartment building is an exciting path to pursue so go to http://multifamilyinvestor.com .

    (ArticlesBase SC #1466884)

    Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/Tips To Help You Buy Investment Multi-Family Apartments