What Buyers Look for in New Builds Today — The Features That Sell Fast

Introduction: Modern Buyers, Modern Expectations

The days when a clean coat of paint and a secure gate were enough to sell a new home are gone. Today’s homebuyers are more informed, tech-savvy, and value-conscious. Whether you’re a developer or seller, knowing what features actually influence purchasing decisions is key to success.

In a competitive market with rising interest in new developments in areas like Ruwa, Pomona, Gweru, and Bulawayo, understanding buyer behavior is more important than ever.

Here’s a breakdown of what today’s buyers are looking for in new builds and what gets properties off the market faster.

1. Reliable Water and Energy Systems

What buyers want:

• Borehole and water tank (minimum 5000L)
  
• Solar backup systems
  
• Gas infrastructure
  

Stat: In a 2024 survey by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority, over 60% of urban residents face irregular water supply, making self-reliance systems a top priority.

Pro tip: New builds with solar geysers and basic solar lighting see 28% faster sales, especially in areas like Chitungwiza, Glen View, and Hatfield.

2. Smart and Energy-Efficient Design

In-demand features:

• LED lighting
  
• Pre-installed solar panels or inverter wiring
  
• Energy-efficient windows and insulation
  

Trend: With electricity tariffs rising steadily since 2023, buyers now actively ask about monthly utility savings when viewing homes.

Bonus: Energy efficiency is especially important to diaspora buyers looking for low-maintenance investments.

3. Open-Plan Living & Multi-Use Spaces

Popular layouts:

• Kitchen-living-dining combos
  
• Study/office nooks for remote work
  
• Sliding doors opening to entertainment areas
  

Stat: Over 52% of 2025 new home buyers prefer open-plan layouts with natural light and functional flow (property.co.zw user survey, Q1 2025).

4. Modern Kitchens and Bathrooms

Kitchen must-haves:

• Built-in stove/oven
  
• Granite or quartz countertops
  
• Ample cabinet space
  
• Island or breakfast nook
  

Bathroom essentials:

• Frameless showers
  
• Dual basins in master ensuite
  
• Contemporary fittings
  

Insight: New homes with updated kitchens and stylish bathrooms are commanding 10–15% higher prices in areas like Greendale, Bluff Hill, and Hillside (Byo).

5. Security Features Built-In

Security features buyers expect:

• CCTV-ready wiring
  
• Electric fence
  
• Smart intercom or gate control
  
• Panic buttons or neighborhood watch connections
  

Trend: Following security concerns in Harare suburbs, homeowners are now more inclined to buy in gated estates, with 74% citing safety as a non-negotiable feature (property.co.zw Trends Report)

6. Storage and Utility Space

In-demand extras:

• Built-in wardrobes
  
• Dedicated laundry area
  
• Lock-up garage or secure carport
  
• Storage rooms or external sheds
  

Tip: Buyers are increasingly practical. Show how each square metre adds utility especially in cluster homes or smaller plots.

7. Fibre-Ready and Tech-Connected Homes

Smart home features:

• Fibre internet availability
  
• WiFi routers pre-installed or wired rooms
  
• Smart lighting or motion sensors
  
• Generator switch-over points
  

8. Clean Documentation and Transparent Developer Track Record

Even the most stunning build won’t sell if paperwork is questionable.

Buyers check:

• Approved building plans
  
• Title deed or developer permit
  
• Occupation certificate
  
• ZINARA-approved roads (for estates)
  

Insight: In 2024, 19% of failed deals on new builds were due to unclear documentation or disputes between landowners and developers.

Agent tip: Developers with good reputations, visible progress, and full council compliance sell units up to 35% faster than others.

9. Community Amenities and Green Spaces

Buyers are increasingly interested in the lifestyle beyond the home.

Community features buyers love:

• Playgrounds or shared green areas
  
• Walking paths or picnic spots
  
• Gated estate management
  
• Trash collection and road maintenance
  

10. Flexible Payment Options

In a cash-strapped environment, how buyers pay matters as much as what they buy.

Preferred payment structures:

• Deposit + monthly instalments
  
• Developer financing
  
• Mortgage-ready paperwork (NBS, CBZ, FBC, CABS)
  

Fact: Properties that offer payment flexibility sell 40% faster, particularly in new builds priced under USD $60,000.

Conclusion: Match the Market, Move the Property

Buyers in Zimbabwe today are smarter, tech-savvier, and more demanding than ever. They want value, function, and peace of mind — not just square footage. Developers who deliver on these expectations, backed by solid documentation and thoughtful design, will sell faster and earn better reputations.

At property.co.zw, we work with top developers to help market and showcase modern, buyer-ready homes with exactly the features today's homeowners demand.

Want More Buyer Insights?

• Visit our Developer Hub
• Browse current New Developments
  

Download our free 2025 Buyer Trends Report
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