UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | People working abroad often save money to invest back home, with real estate being one of the most popular investments. Many aim to build homes for their families or themselves and even rentals to diversify their revenue streams.
While some have been defrauded by unscrupulous friends, family members, and construction companies, others have succeeded in building a home.
Family Help
Ivan Ssenyondo, a mall security guard in Dubai, knew the risks of trusting friends or relatives back home with money but had no other option when he wanted to buy property.
“I wanted to return home as a successful person who owns properties,” Ssenyondo said.
In his first nine months in Dubai, he saved USh6 million, which motivated him to send his savings to his father to help buy land in Uganda.
His father, a former worker in Dubai, offered one of his plots and used Ssenyondo’s money to construct a three-bedroom house.
Friends’ Assistance
Allan Ssonko relocated to the United States after winning a green card from the annual American lottery.
“I was fortunate that when I got to the USA, I had a house and job ready for me,” Ssonko said.
Within five months, he saved enough money to buy land in Uganda and start construction. He entrusted the responsibility to his friend and supervised the progress through video calls.
“I was ready for any misfortune because I was confident that I could make more money,” Ssonko said.
His friend faithfully completed the house, furnished it to his taste, and awaited his return.
Hands-On Approach
Budding singer Lisa Kaizire, aka Lynne Zaabu, a former waitress in Dubai, started building her house after saving USh6 million in one year.
“I was earning an average of USh3.5 million a month as a waitress. I managed to save USh6 million after one year,” Kaizire said.
She returned to Uganda, bought a 40×100 meter plot, enclosed it with a fence, and returned to Dubai to work for three more years.
“I chose to do this because most people are fraudsters, and I did not want to lose my hard-earned money to them,” she said.
Kaizire worked as a waitress and later as a travel agent, which strained her.
She returned to Uganda, rented a luxurious home, and then realized she had only USh4 million left. Facing potential eviction, she moved into more affordable housing and started building her home.
“Even if it is not the luxurious home I was living in, I am comfortable living in it as I try to complete it one project at a time,” Kaizire said.
Expert Opinions
Philemon Karungi Rukwira of Comfort Homes in Naalya noted that many people have trust issues when it comes to buying and constructing homes in their absence.
“People make the mistake of entrusting such a huge investment with relatives and friends, who end up disappointing them,” Rukwira said.
He advised hiring a lawyer and a surveyor, doing a background check on professionals, and following up to avoid losing money to conmen.
“The company one opts for should be registered and have records of offering quality service to clients,” he added.
“Most companies use different platforms to showcase their properties. If you like what you see, then contact them. Also, read the comments because they will give you a complete picture of the company,” Rukwira said.
Alex Kato Kalema, the director of MDL Real Estate in Maganjo and a former UK citizen, was inspired to start constructing homes for people in the diaspora due to the challenges fellow Ugandans abroad faced.
“Many Ugandans abroad earn a lot of money but are stuck with it. Many have an interest in investing in real estate but are reluctant to start the process because they do not have the time or expertise to do so,” Kalema said.
He decided to venture into real estate to serve Ugandans in the diaspora.
Advice for Investors
Kalema advised clients to contract companies with physical addresses and proof of other projects they have handled.
“Since you are unable to be there, ask for detailed plans and regular video updates to ensure the construction aligns with your expectations,” he suggested.
This approach helps ensure transparency and accountability, reducing the risk of fraud.
Building a home from abroad presents unique challenges, but with careful planning, due diligence, and the right support, it is possible to achieve one’s dreams.
Success stories like those of Ssenyondo, Ssonko, and Kaizire provide valuable insights into the process and underscore the importance of trust and vigilance in property investments.
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