Top 15 Questions to Ask Before Buying an Apartment in Zimbabwe

Buying an apartment in Zimbabwe is a significant financial decision that requires careful research and structured due diligence. Whether you are purchasing for personal use or as an investment, knowing the right questions to ask can help you avoid legal complications, unexpected costs, and poor returns.

Zimbabwe’s apartment market offers a mix of ready and off-plan properties, sectional title developments, and a wide range of developers and complexes. This guide outlines the top 15 essential questions every buyer should ask, covering legal ownership, financial commitments, developer credibility, location factors, and long-term investment potential.

Introduction

Purchasing an apartment in Zimbabwe requires thorough due diligence to ensure a sound investment. Asking the right questions protects buyers from ownership disputes, hidden charges, maintenance surprises, and unrealistic rental or resale expectations. Understanding what to ask before buying an apartment is essential for navigating Zimbabwe’s property market with confidence.

Top 15 Essential Questions

1. Is the apartment freehold or under sectional title?

Most apartments in Zimbabwe are sold under sectional title (strata title). Understanding whether the property is freehold or sectional title affects your rights, responsibilities, and obligations to the body corporate or homeowners’ association.

2. What are the annual levies and municipal rates, and what do they cover?

Levies fund building maintenance, security, lifts, shared amenities, and reserves. Municipal rates go to the local council. Ask for a breakdown of levies and check whether any arrears exist.

3. Is there a clear Title Deed or sectional plan?

Verify ownership with the Deeds Office. Ensure the property is free of encumbrances, caveats, or disputes. Clear documentation is essential to avoid problems during transfer.

4. Are there any outstanding levies, taxes, or legal disputes?

Confirm all payments are up to date and that the property is not subject to any ongoing legal claims that could affect transfer or ownership.

5. Has the sectional plan been approved by the local authorities?

Approval ensures compliance with city or town planning regulations, zoning, and building standards. Without this, the property may be non-compliant or risk penalties.

6. What is the developer’s or seller’s reputation?

A developer’s track record influences construction quality, maintenance, and long-term value. Research reviews and past projects to avoid risky investments, especially for off-plan properties.

7. Are there any mortgages, bonds, or caveats on the property?

Check whether the apartment is bonded. A bond clearance certificate is required before the transfer can proceed.

8. What are all costs involved in the purchase?

Beyond the price, account for:

• Transfer duty
  
• Legal conveyancing fees
  
• Agent commission (~5%)
  
• Deeds Office registration fees
  

These can add up to 6–8% of the purchase price.

9. What financing options are available?

Mortgage availability in Zimbabwe is limited, with interest rates often around 20% or higher. Pre-approval helps determine borrowing capacity and affordability.

10. How is the location for transport, amenities, and rental demand?

Location affects lifestyle and investment performance. Apartments near employment hubs, schools, shopping, and transport typically attract higher rents and appreciate faster.

11. What community rules apply?

Body corporate or homeowners’ association regulations may restrict renovations, pets, short-term rentals, and use of common areas. Check that rules align with your intended use.

12. What is the condition of the building and unit?

Inspect for structural issues, plumbing, electricity, lifts, roofing, and general maintenance. Older buildings with deferred maintenance can result in high future levies.

13. What are the expected rental yields?

Rental yields for apartments in Harare and Bulawayo typically range 6–8% per year, depending on location and unit type. Understanding realistic rental income is essential for investment planning.

14. What is the recommended holding period?

Consider whether the apartment is a short-term or long-term investment. Apartments generally appreciate slower than houses but can provide steady rental income, especially in high-demand zones.

15. Will the property generate positive cash flow?

Calculate net income after levies, taxes, and maintenance. Ensure that rental income or future resale value meets your financial goals.

Key Factors by Property Type

Due Diligence Checklist

• Verify Title Deed / Sectional Plan
  
• Confirm levies and rates are up to date
  
• Check local authority approvals
  
• Confirm mortgage or caveat clearance
  
• Complete inspection of unit and building
  
• Evaluate rental income potential
  
• Secure mortgage pre-approval or financing options
  
• Use licensed agents, valuers, and conveyancers
  

Key Takeaways

• Prioritise properties with clear title and approvals to avoid legal complications.
  
• Budget carefully for levies, rates, and additional fees beyond purchase price.
  
• Location and developer credibility significantly influence rental demand, resale value, and long-term ROI.
  
• Off-plan properties can offer attractive payment plans, but ready units provide immediate income and lower risk.
  
• Professional guidance ensures smooth transfers and accurate valuation.