By Andrew Juma
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Building budget-friendly apartment designs for rental units in Embakasi is one of the best real estate investments in Nairobi. With a high demand for rental housing and a growing middle-class population, developers can achieve steady rental income if they design smart, modern, and affordable apartments.
However, balancing affordability with profitability requires careful planning. From how to build affordable but modern apartments in Nairobi to smart ways of reducing construction costs in Nairobi without compromising quality, this guide will help you create a successful rental investment.
Why Embakasi is a Great Location for Affordable Apartments
Embakasi is one of Nairobi’s fastest-growing residential areas. It attracts young professionals, middle-income families, and students looking for affordable housing near workplaces, schools, and shopping centres. The demand for best apartment layouts for small plots in Embakasi is rising due to:
Proximity to Nairobi CBD – Easy access to town via major roads and the SGR train. This ease of access to the city centre is a major draw for many residents who work or conduct business in the CBD.
Employment Opportunities – The area surrounding Embakasi is a significant employment hub. Industrial areas, business parks, and various offices are located within close proximity, providing numerous job opportunities for residents.
Affordable Land Prices – Compared to other Nairobi estates, land in Embakasi is still relatively affordable. This cost advantage is a crucial factor in making affordable housing projects viable.
Growing Infrastructure – Embakasi has witnessed significant improvements in infrastructure in recent years. Roads have been upgraded, and access to essential utilities like water supply and electricity has improved considerably.
To capitalize on these benefits, developers must understand what Nairobi tenants want in a 1 & 2-bedroom apartment and design accordingly.
Read Also: A Comprehensive Guide to Embakasi Culture, Economy, Infrastructure, and Opportunities
Best Apartment Layouts for Small Plots in Embakasi
In Nairobi, where land can be a premium, developers often work with smaller plots, such as the common 50×100 or even 40×80 plots. Developers working with small plots in Embakasi (such as 50×100 or 40×80) must use space efficiently. Choosing the right apartment layout is crucial for maximizing the number of units and ensuring a comfortable living environment for tenants. Some of the popular best apartment layouts for small plots in Embakasi include:
1. Single Row Design
Apartments are arranged in a row with a shared corridor.
Best for narrow plots.
Allows for maximum natural lighting and ventilation.
2. Courtyard Layout
Apartments are built around an open central courtyard.
Creates a spacious, airy feel.
Ideal for family-friendly apartment designs.
3. Multi-Storey Compact Design
Stacked floors with minimal corridors to maximize space.
Ideal for budget-friendly apartment designs for rental units in Embakasi.
Allows for more units and higher rental income.
Choosing the right layout ensures smart design tips for maximizing rental income in Embakasi.
Read Also: The Ultimate Guide to Apartment Plans in Kenya: Designs, Costs, and Trends
How to Reduce Construction Costs in Nairobi Without Compromising Quality
Building affordable apartments doesn’t necessitate using substandard materials or cutting corners that could compromise the structural integrity or the overall quality of the units. Instead, it involves employing smart and efficient construction techniques and making informed choices about materials. Here’s how to reduce construction costs in Nairobi without compromising quality:
Use Cost-Effective Building Materials


Opt for machine-cut stones instead of hand-cut stones.
Use hollow concrete blocks to save on cement.
Consider prefabricated slabs and beams for faster construction.
Hire a Design & Build Company


Working with professionals prevents mistakes that lead to delays and extra costs.
Minimize Waste


Plan purchases carefully to avoid excess materials.
Use reusable formwork for casting concrete.
Buy Materials in Bulk


Purchasing in bulk helps get discounts and reduces transport costs.
What Nairobi Tenants Look For in a 1 & 2-Bedroom Apartment
To attract tenants, your apartments must offer what Nairobi tenants want in a 1 & 2-bedroom apartment. These features increase demand and allow you to charge competitive rent:
Spacious living room and kitchen – Open-plan designs are more attractive. An open layout creates a sense of spaciousness and allows for better flow between these key areas.
 
Natural lighting and ventilation – Tenants prefer well-lit and airy units. Proper ventilation helps keep the apartments cool and comfortable, reducing the need for artificial cooling.
 
Secure compound – Security is a major concern for many Nairobi residents. A perimeter wall, a secure gate, and CCTV surveillance provide a sense of safety and security for tenants.
 
Reliable water and electricity supply – Inconsistent water and electricity supply can be a major inconvenience. Install storage tanks and backup systems.
 
Balconies and laundry areas – These features add convenience and enhance the liveability of the apartments. Balconies provide outdoor space, while dedicated laundry areas make chores easier.
 
Parking space – With increasing car ownership in Nairobi, providing adequate parking space is crucial. Tenants who own cars or motorbikes will prioritize apartments that offer parking facilities.
Meeting these expectations helps attract long-term tenants in Nairobi apartments. Understanding tenant preferences and incorporating them into your design will lead to higher occupancy rates and increased rental income.
 

Best Interior Finishes for Affordable Apartments in Kenya
Tenants in Nairobi want modern and stylish interiors. However, luxury finishes can be expensive. To balance affordability and quality, use best interior finishes for affordable apartments in Kenya such as:
Ceramic tiles – Affordable and easy to maintain.
Granite or MDF countertops – Durable and cost-effective kitchen finishes.
Steel or hardwood doors – Provides security without being too expensive.
Neutral paint colours – Light colours make spaces look bigger and brighter.
LED lighting – Energy-efficient and modern.
Using these cost-effective materials keeps construction within budget while attracting quality tenants.
Read Also: Designing For The Modern Kenyan: Key Elements to Include In Your Apartment Design
Other Tips for Maximizing Rental Income in Embakasi
To ensure high returns on your investment, you must design apartments that offer maximum rental value. Employing these smart design tips for maximizing rental income in Embakasi can significantly impact your profitability:
Keep bedrooms compact but functional – Maximize space for other areas.
Use built-in storage solutions – Saves space while improving functionality.
Design multi-purpose areas – For example, a dining space that doubles as a work area.
Prioritize natural light and ventilation – Reduces energy costs for tenants.
Optimize the number of units per floor – More units mean higher rental income.
Implementing these strategies will help increase occupancy rates, attract quality tenants, and ultimately boost the long-term profitability of your rental investment.

How to Manage Rental Apartments in Embakasi Successfully
Once your apartments are completed, you need a good management strategy to keep operations smooth. Here’s how to manage rental apartments in Embakasi successfully:
Screen Tenants Carefully: Thoroughly screen potential tenants to ensure they have a stable income and a good rental history. This will help minimize the risk of rent arrears and property damage.
Set Competitive Rent Prices: Research the market and set competitive rent prices based on the location, size, and amenities of your apartments.
Have a Lease Agreement: A written lease agreement is essential to protect both the landlord and the tenant. It should clearly outline the terms of the tenancy, including rent amount, payment schedule, and rules and regulations.
Hire a Property Manager: If you have multiple units or prefer not to handle the day-to-day management tasks yourself, consider hiring a professional property manager. They can handle tenant screening, rent collection, maintenance, and other responsibilities.
Regular Maintenance and Repairs: Regularly inspect your property and address any maintenance issues promptly. Well-maintained apartments attract long-term tenants and preserve the value of your investment.
Proper management ensures stable income, reduces tenant turnover, and minimizes the risk of issues arising.
Read Also: Role of Property Management Services
 
Cost-Effective Ways to Maintain Rental Apartments in Kenya
Maintenance is a critical aspect of preserving the value of your property and keeping your tenants satisfied. Implementing cost-effective ways to maintain rental apartments in Kenya can help you manage expenses without compromising the quality of your property: Use these cost-effective ways to maintain rental apartments in Kenya:
Schedule regular inspections – Catch small problems before they become major repairs.
Use durable materials – Saves on replacement costs.
Keep a maintenance fund – Set aside part of the rent income for repairs.
Encourage responsible tenants – Tenants should report damages early.
Hire reliable repair professionals – Quality repairs last longer.
Reducing maintenance costs increases your overall profit margin from the property and ensures the long-term viability of your investment.
Read Also: Why Work with a Design and Build Company in Kenya
Final Thoughts
Building affordable yet profitable 1 & 2-bedroom apartments in Embakasi requires careful planning, cost-effective construction methods, and a tenant-friendly design. By choosing the right layout, using affordable finishes, maximizing rental space, and maintaining your property well, you can build a sustainable and profitable real estate investment.
For expert guidance on how to build affordable but modern apartments in Nairobi, contact us here at Marble Engineering. We are a design and build company in Kenya with enough experience and qualification to ensure high-quality, cost-effective construction. We operate across Kenya and have worked with various clients to bring their dream construction projects to life. We offer a free consultation and are available at any point in time to answer any questions that you have.