KAMPALA - Often, after walking down the aisle, many young couples — older ones included — desire to have a home of their own. However, the fear of taking that step often lingers due to limited or no financial muscle, leading many to settle for renting instead.
But what if I told you there could be a solution?
The team behind the 16th edition of the Bride and Groom Expo clearly understood the assignment by incorporating the aspect of real estate — encouraging couples to look beyond just the wedding day and consider long-term investment.
Through partners such as Pearl Marina, a real estate company, they played a key role in ensuring that couples were well-informed and financially prepared to get on with owning their homes.
“We are here to provide information that may not be available on our online platforms, and also to assist those who are ready to make a purchase,” Sylvia Alal, the resource and marketing manager of Pearl Marina, said.
For couples, she explained, “We are offering organised and secure living environments where they can grow and raise their families, while also making a sound investment in an appreciating asset. Our modern infrastructure ensures peace of mind and security.”
She added: “Our products are known to appreciate in value, especially now, as we are offering off-plan purchases—properties sold before construction begins—at subsidised rates. Buying off-plan allows buyers to benefit from extended payment plans.”
“If you need a helping hand, we have partnerships with financial institutions that can support you in paying off the house. Buyers can make lower monthly instalments while already occupying their homes. Instead of paying rent, you could be paying off your mortgage.”
Airnbn
For couples not planning to leave Kampala for their honeymoon, Patrick Kyagera, a sales and marketing executive at Pearl Marina, revealed that they also offer Airbnb spaces.
“We have thoughtfully designed Airbnb accommodations to enhance the honeymoon experience for couples who choose to stay local,” he said.
Kyagera further encouraged young couples preparing for marriage to aim for homeownership early.
“We have payment plans for all our properties, ranging from $38,000 (sh140m) to $400,000 (sh148m). With just a 20% deposit, you can begin a mortgage through the bank, payable over four year,” he says.
Once the house is acquired, the couple can choose to either live in it or turn it into a business.
“We can manage the property for you if you choose to enter the Airbnb business. That could be another way of guaranteeing financial security,” he added.
Pearl Marina will offer you nothing short of luxury; a Lake Victoria view set in a gated community, with almost a stone-throw distance from Uganda’s biggest airport at Entebbe, offering convenience to couples that need regular travel.
Mirembe Estate is also currently running affordable housing deals in Sentema and Kigo. The Sentema project includes three bungalow-style housing options: one-, two-, and three-bedroom units.
Desire Kwesiga, a property consultant at Mirembe Estates, explained that each house comes with both front and backyards and offers room for customisation based on a buyer’s preferences.
He added, “The houses come with a 36-month payment plan after a 10% down payment, which can easily be taken advantage of by couples. Once you reach 80% of the payment, you can move in, and upon completing the full amount, we hand over the land title.”
“These homes are strategically located to enhance your comfort while also offering great value for money.”
The 16th edition of the Bride and Groom Expo was made possible thanks to partners such as Bella Wine, Looks Bespoke, and Pepsi.