How Zimbabweans in the Diaspora Can Buy Property Online

For millions of Zimbabweans living in the diaspora, the dream of owning a home or investing in land back home is still very much alive. Whether you're in South Africa, the UK, the US, Australia, or Canada, technology has now made it easier than ever to buy property in Zimbabwe online and remotely.

But how do you do it safely and legally from abroad? This guide breaks down how Zimbabweans in the diaspora can buy property online, avoid scams, and ensure their investment is protected.

Why Buy Property Online From the Diaspora?

With limited access to bank loans and growing demand for real estate in Zimbabwe, diaspora Zimbabweans are among the most active property investors, contributing to:

• The development of residential suburbs like Mabvazuva, Ruwa, Madokero, and Pomona
• The growth of cluster housing and gated communities
• Increased demand for serviced stands, townhouses, and off-plan developments
  

According to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), remittances from Zimbabweans abroad reached US$1.8 billion in 2023, with a significant portion directed toward property purchases, construction, and home improvements.

Step-by-Step: How to Buy Property Online from Abroad

1. Use Verified Property Portals

Start your search on trusted online platforms like Property.co.zw, Zimbabwe’s No.1 property marketplace, which lists:

• Residential homes
  
• Serviced and unserviced stands
  
• Cluster units and townhouses
  
• Commercial and agricultural land
  

You can filter listings by location, price, property type, and developer, and even view photos, virtual tours, and agent contact details.

2. Work With Registered Estate Agents and Developers

Avoid dealing with unverified individuals. Instead, choose agents or developers listed on platforms that require verification, licensing, and official company profiles.

Tip: Always ask for:

• A copy of the agent’s REAZ license (Real Estate Institute of Zimbabwe)
  
• The developer’s title deeds or land offer letter
  
• A recent site plan or layout approval from local authorities
  

3. Get Legal Support From a Conveyancer

Once you've identified a property, hire a qualified conveyancer or property lawyer in Zimbabwe. They will:

• Review contracts and agreements of sale
  
• Verify ownership and title
  
• Conduct due diligence (rates, taxes, mortgages, caveats)
  
• Facilitate safe transfer of ownership
  

Many top Harare law firms and conveyancers offer remote services via email, WhatsApp, and Zoom.

4. Make Secure Payments From Abroad

Reputable agents and lawyers will offer secure payment channels, including:

• SWIFT bank transfers to verified trust accounts
  
• Use of diaspora-friendly banking services from FBC, CBZ, or Stanbic
  
• Payment platforms like Senditoo or Mukuru (for smaller transactions)
  

Avoid sending money directly to individuals without signed agreements or proof of transaction.

5. Sign Documents Electronically

Most real estate documents including the Agreement of Sale, POAs (Power of Attorney), and transfer forms can now be signed digitally or through scanned hard copies.

Some lawyers may require certified copies of your ID or passport from a Zimbabwean embassy or notary in your country of residence.

6. Appoint a Trusted Representative or Power of Attorney

If you’re unavailable to handle in-person tasks like:

• Viewing the land
  
• Signing at the Deeds Office
  
• Attending council meetings
  

…you can appoint someone in Zimbabwe via Power of Attorney (POA) to act on your behalf.

Make sure this person is:

• Trustworthy
  
• Familiar with the property
  
• Guided by your lawyer to act within strict limits

What Property Types Are Best for Diaspora Buyers?

1. Off-Plan Developments

• Pay in instalments
  
• Lock in lower prices
  
• Get new, modern homes
  

Popular areas: Pomona, Mabvazuva, Madokero

2. Serviced Stands

• Start building later
  
• Flexible pricing
  
• Great for long-term investment
  

Hot zones: Ruwa, Norton, Bulawayo North, Gweru outskirts

3. Cluster Units

• Secure, low-maintenance
  
• Ideal for renting or retirement
  

Growing in Borrowdale, Greendale, Bluff Hill

Avoiding Scams: Red Flags to Watch Out For

Unfortunately, property scams targeting diasporans are common. To protect yourself:

• Don’t trust listings on unverified Facebook groups
  
• Avoid “agents” with no office address or license
  
• Never pay deposits before signing legal paperwork
  
• Be wary of deals that seem “too good to be true” or require urgency

Use platforms like Property.co.zw which verify agents and listings before publishing them.

Final Thoughts

Buying property from the diaspora is not only possible it’s increasingly secure and convenient. With the right team, technology, and legal guidance, you can invest in Zimbabwe real estate from anywhere in the world.

Whether you're planning for retirement, building for your family, or simply securing land for the future, platforms like Property.co.zw make it easy to browse, compare, and connect with trusted professionals all from your phone or laptop.