What Are the Best Neighborhoods to Buy a House in Harare? Complete 2025 Guide

Buying a house in Harare requires careful consideration of location, amenities, safety, and investment potential. With property prices ranging from US $25,000 to over US $850,000, selecting the right neighborhood is crucial for long-term value and lifestyle satisfaction.

2025 Market Snapshot:

• Harare has over 50 residential suburbs, with varying price ranges and facilities.
  
• Average house price in popular suburbs: US $120,000–US $250,000
• Luxury properties in Borrowdale and Mount Pleasant exceed US $850,000

This guide highlights the best neighborhoods to buy a house in Harare, based on affordability, amenities, safety, and growth potential.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Neighborhood

Before selecting a neighborhood, consider:

1. Safety and Security

• Check crime statistics and gated communities.
  

2. Access to Amenities

• Schools, hospitals, shopping centers, recreational facilities.
  

3. Property Value and Investment Potential

• Look for areas with steady price growth and rental demand.

4. Transport and Accessibility

• Road quality, proximity to CBD, and public transport availability.
  

5. Community and Lifestyle

• Family-friendly suburbs, cultural hubs, or quiet residential areas.
  

Top Neighborhoods to Buy a House in Harare

1. Borrowdale

Average property price: US $250,000–$850,000

Highlights:

• High-end residential suburb with luxury homes
  
• Excellent security and gated communities
  
• Close to shopping malls like Borrowdale Brooke and lifestyle amenities
  

Investment potential: High demand for rentals and resale

2. Mount Pleasant

Average property price: US $180,000–$450,000

Highlights:

• Central location, easy access to CBD and schools
  
• Popular with expatriates and middle-to-upper-class buyers
  
• Well-established infrastructure and services
  

Investment potential: Strong, consistent price appreciation

3. Avondale

Average property price: US $150,000–$300,000

Highlights:

• Close to city center with good commercial activity
  
• Restaurants, shopping, and recreational facilities
  
• Mix of older homes and new developments
  

Investment potential: Moderate to high for rental income

4. Highlands

Average property price: US $120,000–$280,000

Highlights:

• Family-friendly suburb with schools and parks
  
• Close to city but quieter than CBD-adjacent areas
  
• Mix of old and newly renovated properties
  

Investment potential: Good for long-term residential stability

5. Glen Lorne

Average property price: US $300,000–$700,000

Highlights:

• Exclusive suburb with scenic landscapes and large plots
  
• High-end residential properties with privacy
  
• Popular among professionals and expatriates
  

Investment potential: Luxury market, slower but stable growth

6. Chisipite

Average property price: US $200,000–$500,000

Highlights:

• Gated estates and family-oriented environment
  
• High-quality schools nearby
  
• Safe and well-maintained neighborhood
  

Investment potential: Strong, especially for family rentals

7. Avondale West

Average property price: US $130,000–$250,000

Highlights:

• Affordable option close to central Harare
  
• Good mix of residential and commercial amenities
  
• Increasing demand due to redevelopment projects
  

Investment potential: Growing, moderate rental income

8. Greendale

Average property price: US $160,000–$350,000

Highlights:

• Semi-luxury residential area with large plots
  
• Family-friendly, quiet, and secure
  
• Proximity to schools and shops
  

Investment potential: High for long-term residential value

Tips for Choosing the Right Neighborhood

1. Visit the Area

• Inspect the streets, traffic, and local amenities.
  

2. Check Property History

• Verify Title Deed, previous ownership, and zoning regulations.
  

3. Evaluate Rental Potential

• Even if buying to live, assess resale or rental demand for future flexibility.
  

4. Consider Future Development

• Look for areas with upcoming roads, schools, or shopping developments.
  

5. Engage Local Real Estate Agents

• Experienced agents provide market insights and access to off-market properties.
  

Investment Insights 2025

• Luxury suburbs (Borrowdale, Glen Lorne, Mount Pleasant) have slower turnover but high rental demand among expatriates.
  
• Middle-class suburbs (Highlands, Chisipite, Avondale) offer steady price appreciation and family-oriented lifestyle.
  
• Affordable areas (Avondale West, parts of Greendale) are ideal for first-time buyers or long-term investment with moderate returns.
  

Market trends:

• Average property value growth in Harare suburbs: 5–8% annually
• Rental yields: 4–7% per year, higher in Borrowdale and Mount Pleasant
  

Practical Examples

Example 1: First-Time Homebuyer

• Buys a 3-bedroom house in Highlands for US $180,000
  
• Chooses a neighborhood close to schools and shopping
  
• Property appreciates ~6% annually, resale value after 5 years ≈ US $240,000
  

Example 2: Investor Buying for Rental Income

• Purchases a townhouse in Avondale West for US $150,000
  
• Rents out to young professionals at US $1,200/month
  
• Annual rental yield ≈ 5–6% with capital appreciation over time

Neighborhood Comparison Table

Summary

• Harare offers a wide range of neighborhoods for property buyers, from luxury to affordable options.
  
• Key factors: safety, amenities, transport, investment potential, and community.
  
• Best options for 2025: Borrowdale and Glen Lorne (luxury), Mount Pleasant and Chisipite (middle-upper class), Avondale West and Highlands (affordable for first-time buyers).
  
• Average annual property value growth: 5–8%, with rental yields of 4–7% in top suburbs.
  

By carefully evaluating neighborhoods using the tips, statistics, and comparison table, buyers can make informed decisions for both lifestyle and investment in Harare.