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Renovating your home before selling can make a big difference but it’s important to avoid over-capitalisation, which happens when the total cost of your upgrades ends up being more than what the property could realistically sell for. In Zimbabwe’s current market, smart and affordable upgrades can help sellers stand out without overspending.
Why it Matters in Zimbabwe
With increased urbanisation and growing housing demand, especially in areas like Borrowdale, Marlborough, and Hillside, buyers are looking for homes that offer value, security, and self-sufficiency. The average property listing value on property.co.zw is around USD 85,000, with demand highest in the $40,000–$100,000 range. Homes that tick the right boxes are selling significantly faster.
Upgrades That Add Value
1. Kerb Appeal
First impressions matter. A clean exterior, freshly painted walls, or simply changing a worn-out garage door or gate can increase buyer interest. In many Harare suburbs, buyers often make their decision before they even walk in the door.
2. Clean, Minimal Interiors
Clutter-free spaces and freshly painted walls (in neutral tones) help potential buyers envision themselves in the home. It also makes rooms appear brighter and more spacious—critical in smaller urban properties.
3. Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades
In Zimbabwean homes, especially in older suburbs like Mabelreign or Greendale, kitchens and bathrooms often show their age. Small changes like:
- Replacing cabinet handles
- Installing energy-efficient lighting
- Swapping out dated tiles ...can add significant appeal.
Light, neutral tones are ideal for tiles and cabinetry, helping spaces feel more modern and inviting.
4. Solar and Water Solutions
With Zimbabwe’s regular power cuts and water challenges, off-grid improvements are increasingly valuable. Consider:
- Solar geysers or panels
- Inverter systems
- Gutter-fed water tanks or boreholes
These features are fast becoming must-haves rather than nice extras. In fact, listings with solar or water backup receive up to 35% more inquiries on property.co.zw.
5. Security Enhancements
Perimeter walls, electric fencing, outdoor motion lights, and reinforced doors/windows continue to be strong selling points. Buyers in high-density areas and even low-density suburbs now expect basic security upgrades.
Upgrades to Avoid
Not all renovations will help you sell faster or for more:
Garage-to-Room Conversions
Turning garages into rooms or flats without proper planning or council approval can lead to reduced resale value and extended time on the market.
Poor Floor Plans
Additions that disrupt flow or reduce natural lighting make homes feel cramped and awkward. These often deter serious buyers.
Bold Colours or Trendy Finishes
While they may appeal to the owner, very strong paint colours, shiny tiles, or bold design choices may turn buyers off. Most are looking for a blank canvas they can personalise.
Smart, Low-Cost Improvements
Sometimes it’s the simple things that bring the biggest returns:
- Painting old tiles or walls in white or cream
- Installing sleek, painted shelves to maximise storage
- Tidying up the garden and planting low-maintenance plants
- Painting vibracrete walls dark grey to create a premium look
A small, clean, and cleverly improved home in a good location will almost always perform better than a larger, cluttered, or unrenovated one.
Key Stats to Keep in Mind
- Listings with solar or water tanks get up to 35% more engagement.
- Homes with visible security features sell up to 20% faster.
- Neutral interiors are preferred in over 70% of buyer inquiries.
- Properties priced accurately and staged properly sell 33% faster on average.
Final Thought
In today’s market, the right improvements can help your home sell faster and for more but poor choices can hold you back. If you’re thinking of selling, speak to a local estate agent on property.co.zw before you renovate. They’ll help you prioritise upgrades that offer true return on investment.
