When it comes to real estate, location is everything but what truly defines a “great location”? For homebuyers, developers, and investors alike, not all towns are created equal.
The right town can offer long-term financial returns, quality of life, and consistent market demand. So, what makes a town stand out as a prime real estate destination?
Let’s break down the essential ingredients that make a town attractive for real estate, and why places like Lanet in Nakuru are gaining momentum in Kenya’s property market.
1. Strong Infrastructure and Accessibility
A town with well-maintained roads, reliable utilities (water, electricity, internet), and public transportation options is always more appealing to buyers and renters. Infrastructure isn’t just about convenience it reflects long-term government investment, which is a signal of future growth.
Example: In Lanet, the proximity to Nakuru’s town center and smooth road connectivity make it an ideal commuter suburb. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or shopping, getting around is simple and stress-free.
2. Affordable Yet Appreciating Property Values
An excellent real estate town offers affordable entry points with visible growth potential. Buyers want locations where they can get value for money while watching property values rise over time. This blend of affordability and appreciation is a golden combination for both homeowners and investors.
In Lanet, you can purchase a spacious three-bedroom home at a significantly lower cost than in Nairobi’s satellite towns, while enjoying steady growth in land and property values.
3. Community and Livability
People don’t just buy properties — they buy into lifestyles. A great town has a sense of community, safety, clean environments, and access to green spaces. Family-friendly neighborhoods, recreational areas, and cultural identity all boost a town’s real estate desirability.
Lanet is a shining example, with its tree-lined streets, low population density, and tight-knit community. It offers serenity and security, making it perfect for families, retirees, and first-time homeowners alike.
4. Proximity to Urban Centers and Economic Hubs
A town doesn’t have to be in the heart of a city to thrive — but it should be close enough to benefit from urban economic activity. Towns located near employment hubs, universities, government offices, or industrial zones tend to attract a steady demand for housing.
Lanet benefits from being part of the greater Nakuru metropolitan area, with access to major educational institutions, government services, and commercial opportunities — all while retaining its peaceful suburban feel.
5. Access to Schools, Health Facilities, and Amenities
Education, healthcare, and access to daily essentials like supermarkets, banks, and entertainment spots are vital in attracting long-term residents. A town with ongoing investment in social amenities becomes more self-sustaining and reduces the need for long commutes.
Kiamunyi, another suburb in Nakuru, is booming for this very reason — with modern schools, retail outlets, and health facilities coming up rapidly. Similarly, Lanet is catching up, with more developers recognizing its untapped potential.
6. Natural Attractions and Lifestyle Perks
Towns that offer more than just shelter often win the hearts of buyers. Natural beauty, clean air, outdoor recreation options, and nearby attractions significantly add to a location’s appeal.
In Nakuru, Lake Nakuru National Park, Menengai Crater, and scenic escarpments mean that weekends can be filled with adventure — without leaving your county. Few towns offer such a blend of city access and leisure.
7. Stable Governance and Planning
Towns with a clear development master plan, transparent land policies, and responsible leadership tend to attract more serious investors. Buyers feel more confident purchasing in areas where land ownership is secure and zoning laws are clear.
Nakuru County’s elevation to city status has triggered significant urban planning efforts — and suburbs like Lanet are benefiting from improved service delivery, structured development, and more municipal support.
If you’re searching for a place to live, build, or invest, don’t just follow the crowd. Look for towns that are growing for the right reasons towns with solid infrastructure, livability, affordability, and potential.
Lanet and similar emerging suburbs in Nakuru tick many of these boxes. They’re affordable, accessible, and livable while offering great returns for forward-thinking buyers.
In real estate, the best time to invest is before the masses catch on. And in places like Lanet, that time may be now
