The Estate Agents Council Explained: Who They Are and Why You Should Care

The Estate Agents Council of Zimbabwe is a statutory body established under the Estate Agents Act [Chapter 27:17]. It regulates and monitors the operations of all licensed estate agents in Zimbabwe.

Its mandate is to:

• Register and license estate agents and firms
• Enforce professional standards and ethics
• Protect the public from unqualified or fraudulent agents
• Handle complaints and disputes involving estate agents
  

Why Does the EAC Matter to Property Buyers, Sellers, and Tenants?

1. Consumer Protection

In a market prone to scams and misrepresentation, the EAC ensures that only qualified, vetted agents are legally allowed to operate. Working with an EAC-licensed agent means:

• Verified credentials
  
• A code of ethics to follow
  
• Disciplinary action in cases of misconduct
  

Fact: The EAC has deregistered dozens of unlicensed agents over the past five years due to fraudulent practices.

2. Regulation of Commission Fees

The EAC sets and monitors acceptable commission rates, preventing unethical overcharging. This protects both property buyers and sellers from being exploited.

Example: The recommended commission on property sales is 3%–5% of the selling price. Anything higher without agreement is unlawful.

3. Legal Oversight of Transactions

The Council ensures that agents:

• Use legally sound agreements of sale and lease
  
• Disclose all necessary information to buyers and sellers
  
• Adhere to fair marketing and advertising standards
  

Agents must also operate under a valid Fidelity Fund Certificate proof that they're approved and accountable to the Council.

4. Dispute Resolution and Complaints Handling

If you have a complaint against a licensed agent, the EAC provides a formal process to:

• Investigate misconduct
  
• Recover losses (in cases involving the Fidelity Fund)
  
• Penalize or revoke licenses where appropriate
  

This gives the public recourse and legal backup in property disputes.

How to Verify if an Agent Is Registered with the EAC

Before signing any contract or paying money, ask your agent for:

• Their EAC license number
• A copy of their Fidelity Fund Certificate

You can also visit the EAC offices in Harare or check their official list of licensed agents.

The Risks of Using Unlicensed Agents

Using unregistered agents leaves you vulnerable to:

• Fraudulent transactions
  
• Loss of deposits or purchase funds
  
• Fake property listings
  
• No legal protection if the deal goes wrong
  

According to the EAC, many property fraud cases in Zimbabwe involve unregistered agents operating through social media or informal channels.

How the EAC Benefits Real Estate Professionals

For estate agents and property firms, the EAC offers:

• Licensing and professional recognition
  
• Industry credibility
  
• Training opportunities and updates on property laws
  
• A formal code of conduct
  

This raises the standard of real estate services in Zimbabwe and builds trust with clients.

Final Thoughts

The Estate Agents Council of Zimbabwe is more than just a regulatory body it’s the foundation of a safer, more transparent real estate market. Whether you're a buyer, seller, tenant, or investor, always work with EAC-registered professionals to protect your money and peace of mind.

Remember: If your agent isn’t registered, your deal isn’t protected.