Women in Real Estate: Breaking Barriers in Kenya’s Property Market
This International Women’s Day, we honour the trailblazing women transforming Kenya’s real estate industry.
For decades, real estate has been a male-dominated field, with men leading most major developments, construction projects, and property firms. When people think of industry leaders, they often picture men in boardrooms, making million-dollar deals, or overseeing large-scale developments. However, this narrative is changing as women are making significant strides in real estate, breaking barriers, and proving that success in the industry isn’t defined by gender.
Trailblazing Women Leading the Industry
Elizabeth Costabir – CEO of BuyRentKenya
One such woman is Elizabeth ‘Lizzie’ Costabir, the CEO of BuyRent Kenya. Through her leadership, the company has transformed how Kenyans search for and transact property online, making real estate more transparent and accessible. By embracing digital solutions, she has played a key role in modernising Kenya’s property market.
Nancy Muthoni – Executive Producer and Host of The Property Show with Nancy
Nancy Muthoni, a household name in the industry, has used her platform, The Property Show with Nancy, to educate Kenyans about real estate investment. Her work has demystified property ownership, helping thousands navigate the often-complex process of buying and investing in property.
Leah Wambui- Founder of Cheriez Properties
Leah Wambui, the founder of Cheriez Properties, has built a successful real estate firm from the ground up, specialising in high-end housing projects in Kitengela. Her journey, from starting with limited resources to running a thriving property development company, is a testament to resilience and vision.
Anne Mwai – CEO of Bama Diaspora
Meanwhile, Anne Mwai, the CEO of Bama Diaspora, has created investment opportunities for Kenyans living abroad, particularly in the U.S. Through her firm, she has provided secure, trustworthy avenues for the diaspora community to invest back home, ensuring they can own property without fear of fraud.
Sarah Wahogo – CEO of Username Investment Limited
In real estate development, Sarah Wahogo, CEO of Username Investment Limited, has emerged as a formidable force. Her contributions earned her recognition as one of the Top 5 Women in Real Estate at the Dependable Brands Super Realtor Awards 2024. Under her leadership, the company has provided affordable land ownership solutions for many Kenyans.
Emma Miloyo – Co- Founder and Director at Design Source and Kiota School
Emma Miloyo made history as the first female president of the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK). Her tenure paved the way for more women in architecture and related professions, proving that women can lead and thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Flora Mutahi – Founder of Azizi Realtors
Another influential figure is Flora Mutahi, known for her success with Melvin Marsh International and as the founder of Azizi Realtors. Her venture into real estate highlights the diverse opportunities available to women in the sector.
Robyn Emerson- co-founder and president of Women in Real Estate (WIRE) Kenya
Robyn Emerson, a passionate advocate for gender equality in real estate, is the co-founder and president of Women in Real Estate (WIRE) Kenya. Through WIRE, she has been instrumental in mentoring and empowering women to take up leadership positions in the industry. Her advocacy work focuses on bridging the gender gap in real estate through training, networking, and policy influence, ensuring that more women have a seat at the table in Kenya’s booming property market.
Challenges and Gender Disparities in the Industry
Despite these successes, women remain significantly underrepresented in Kenya’s real estate and built environment sectors. Statistics reveal the extent of the gender gap:
- Architecture – Only 11.8% of registered architects are women.
- Construction Management – Women hold just 13.7% of professional roles.
- Quantity Surveying – Female representation stands at 17%.
- Urban Planning – Women account for 23.4% of registered planners.
- Contracting – Women make up 15.4% of registered professionals, with even lower numbers in building and mechanical works.
Beyond professional roles, land and property ownership is another area where women face significant hurdles. Only 1% of land titles in Kenya are solely owned by women, while 5-6% are held jointly with men. In real estate brokerage, less than 14% of brokers are women, highlighting the continued gender imbalance.
Empowering Women in Real Estate
The progress women have made in Kenya’s real estate sector has been supported by initiatives like Women in Real Estate (WIRE), an organisation dedicated to advancing women’s achievements in the industry. Through mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and industry research, WIRE is helping more women gain visibility and leadership positions in real estate.
As more women step into executive roles, develop innovative projects, and advocate for gender-inclusive policies, the future of real estate in Kenya looks promising. The industry is slowly but surely shifting, and these trailblazers are proving that women are not just participants but key players shaping the market.
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the women who are redefining Kenya’s real estate landscape, inspiring future generations, and breaking the barriers that once held them back. The journey is far from over, but their impact is undeniable.
