Can Foreigners Buy Property in Zimbabwe? Complete 2025 Guide

Foreigners increasingly look to invest in Zimbabwe’s property market due to urban growth, rental demand, and investment potential. But questions often arise:

• Can foreigners legally own property?
  
• Are there restrictions on land or property types?
  
• What legal requirements and fees apply?
  

This guide answers these questions, providing practical steps, costs, and tips for international buyers in 2025.

2025 Market Snapshot:

• Foreign investment accounts for 10–15% of urban property sales, mainly in Harare and Bulawayo.
  
• Residential properties in suburbs like Borrowdale and Mount Pleasant are most popular.
  
• Average house prices for foreign-accessible properties: US $135,000–US $250,000, with luxury properties exceeding US $860,000.

Legal Framework for Foreign Buyers

Foreigners can buy property in Zimbabwe, but there are restrictions and conditions:

1. Urban vs Rural Land

• Urban residential and commercial properties: Allowed.
  
• Agricultural land: Restricted for locals; foreigners may acquire only with government approval for commercial farming.
  

2. Resident vs Non-Resident Status

• Non-residents must comply with Reserve Bank exchange control regulations.
  
• Property payments in foreign currency must go through approved banking channels.

3. Investment Approval

• Large-scale investments or high-value properties may require approval from the Zimbabwe Investment Authority (ZIA).
  

4. Tax Compliance

• Foreign buyers must provide a ZIMRA tax clearance certificate.
  

5. Engagement of Local Conveyancers

• All property transactions must be handled by registered Zimbabwean conveyancers to ensure legal compliance.

Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy

Popular Foreign Buyer Areas in 2025:

• Harare: Borrowdale, Mount Pleasant, Avondale
  
• Bulawayo: Hillside, Montrose
  
• Mutare: Residential and commercial properties
  

Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Buyers

Step 1: Property Search & Agent Engagement

• Use reputable real estate portals or agents experienced with foreign transactions.
  
• Identify suburbs that allow foreign ownership and match your budget.
  

Step 2: Legal Verification

• Confirm title deed authenticity at the Deeds Office.
  
• Check for existing bonds, cessions, servitudes, or disputes.
  

Step 3: Apply for Investment or Reserve Bank Approval

• Submit required forms for foreign currency transfers.
  
• Reserve Bank approval ensures funds can legally move into Zimbabwe.
  

Step 4: Sign the Agreement of Sale

• Include contingencies for approvals and clear timelines.
  
• Engage a conveyancer to review terms and protect your rights.
  

Step 5: Conduct Due Diligence & Clearances

• Rates and municipal levies must be verified and cleared.
  
• Utility accounts (water, ZESA) should have no outstanding balances.
  

Step 6: Transfer at Deeds Office

• Conveyancer lodges transfer documents.
  
• Payment is processed via approved banking channels.
  
• Deeds Office issues the Title Deed in your name upon completion.
  

Costs for Foreign Buyers

Foreign buyers should budget for additional costs beyond the purchase price:

• Legal fees & conveyancing: 1.5–3%
  
• Transfer fees & stamp duty: 2–4%
  
• Valuation & property inspection: US $250–$900
  
• Municipal and utility clearances: US $200–$500
  
• Foreign exchange processing fees (if paying in foreign currency)
  

Example: For a US $150,000 property, expect total additional costs of US $7,500–$12,000.

Risks and Considerations

1. Exchange Rate Volatility

• Zimbabwe uses a dual currency system; payments in foreign currency must comply with regulations.
  

2. Regulatory Delays

• Reserve Bank or ZIA approvals can take 2–6 weeks, potentially delaying occupancy.
  

3. Property Rights Verification

• Verify there are no unregistered cessions or disputed ownership.
  

4. Local Taxes and Fees

• Capital Gains Tax (CGT), municipal rates, and utility fees apply as they do for locals.
  

Practical Examples

Scenario 1: Cash Purchase by Foreigner

• Lisa from South Africa buys a townhouse in Mount Pleasant for US $180,000.
  
• Pays via approved local bank in foreign currency.
  
• Receives the Title Deed immediately upon Deeds Office transfer.
  

Scenario 2: Mortgage Purchase Using Foreign Funds

• John from the UK invests in a commercial property in Harare.
  
• Bank holds Title Deed via a cession agreement until loan repayment.
  
• John occupies and operates the property while paying monthly installments.

Tips for Foreign Buyers

1. Engage Experienced Local Conveyancers

• They navigate legal requirements and Deeds Office procedures.
  

2. Understand Currency Regulations

• Avoid delays by complying with Reserve Bank foreign exchange rules.
  

3. Verify All Documents

• Ensure Title Deeds are genuine and there are no cession disputes.
  

4. Budget for Extra Costs

• Legal, transfer, stamp duty, inspections, and municipal clearances can add 5–10% to the purchase price.

5. Focus on Urban Areas for Resale & Rental Potential

• Harare and Bulawayo remain the most liquid markets.

Step-by-Step “Foreigner’s Property Buying Checklist

Summary

• Can foreigners buy property in Zimbabwe? Yes, mostly urban residential and commercial properties.
  
  
• Restrictions: Agricultural land is generally off-limits unless government approval is granted.
  
  
• Legal Requirements: Reserve Bank approval, ZIMRA clearance, and engagement of a registered conveyancer.
  
  
• Costs: Budget 5–10% of the property price for legal, transfer, municipal, and currency fees.
  
  
• Tips: Verify title deeds, understand cession agreements if applicable, and comply with currency regulations.
  

2025 Market Insight:

• Urban residential areas in Harare, especially Borrowdale, Mount Pleasant, and Avondale, remain highly sought-after by foreign buyers.
  
• Foreign investment in urban real estate accounts for 10–15% of total transactions, reflecting growing international interest.