What Documents Do I Need to Buy or Sell a House in Zimbabwe? (2025 Guide)

Overview

Buying or selling property in Zimbabwe requires careful documentation to protect both parties and ensure legal compliance. Missing or incorrect documents are a leading cause of delays at the Deeds Office, with an estimated 20% o f transactions in 2024 experiencing delays due to incomplete paperwork.

Having a clear checklist can save time, avoid disputes, and ensure that transfers are legally valid.

Key Documents for Buyers

When buying a property, you typically need the following:

1. Title Deed

• The official proof of ownership registered at the Deeds Office
  
• Confirms the seller’s legal right to sell the property.
  
• Includes any registered bonds, caveats, or servitudes.
  

2. Agreement of Sale

• Signed between buyer and seller outlining the purchase price, deposit, payment terms, and other conditions.
  

3. Identification Documents

• National ID, passport, or company registration documents for corporate buyers.
  

4. Municipal Rates Clearance

• Confirms that all local authority rates, levies, and utility charges are up to date
  

5. Proof of Payment of Capital Gains Tax (if applicable)

• Required when the property is an investment or not the seller’s primary residence.
  

6. Bond Registration Documents (if using mortgage financing)

• Include bond approval letters and bank requirements.
  

7. Power of Attorney (if applicable)

• Needed if the buyer or seller cannot sign documents in person.
  

Key Documents for Sellers

Sellers must ensure the following are ready for a smooth transaction:

1. Original Title Deed or Certified Copy

• Confirms ownership and provides legal standing to sell.
  

2. Rates Clearance Certificate

• Confirms no outstanding municipal rates or levies.
  

3. Bond Cancellation Documents (if applicable)

• Required if there was a mortgage on the property.
  

4. Utility Clearance Certificates

• Shows all ZESA, water, and sewer accounts are settled.
  

5. Company or Trust Resolutions (if applicable)

• Required if the property is held under a corporate entity or trust.
  

6. Subdivision or Rezoning Approvals (if applicable)

• Needed if the property was subdivided or rezoned prior to sale.

Special Considerations

• Cessions:
  Some properties may be sold via a cession before the transfer is registered. Buyers must ensure the cession is valid and prepared by a registered conveyancer.
  
  
• Foreign Buyers:
  Foreign individuals or companies must provide tax registration documents and proof of compliance with investment regulations.
  
  
• Rural Properties:
  Additional approvals may be needed from local councils or government authorities for agricultural or non-urban land.

Tips to Avoid Delays

1. Organize documents early: Ensure all ID copies, title deeds, rates clearance, and approvals are ready before signing the Agreement of Sale.
   
   
2. Use a registered conveyancer: They verify documents, lodge transfers with the Deeds Office, and ensure compliance.
   
   
3. Verify title authenticity: Protect against fraudulent sales, especially when dealing with cessions.
   
   
4. Check municipal and utility clearances: Outstanding balances can delay transfers by weeks.
   
   
5. Keep records of all payments and correspondence: This ensures clarity if disputes arise.

Summary Table: Key Documents for Buyers and Sellers

Conclusion

Having all necessary documents prepared is crucial for a smooth property transaction in Zimbabwe. Buyers and sellers who organize their paperwork ahead of time, engage experienced conveyancers, and verify every clearance reduce delays, avoid disputes, and ensure a legally compliant transfer process.