What Happens After an Offer Is Accepted? A Closing Process Guide for Zimbabwean Homebuyer

You’ve found your dream home. You made an offer and the seller accepted it. Now what?

While getting your offer accepted is a huge milestone, it’s only the beginning of the closing process. From document verification to paying transfer fees, there are several legal and financial steps before you can officially call the property yours.

This guide walks you through what happens after an offer is accepted in Zimbabwe, highlighting key stages, timelines, and what to expect.

Step 1: Drafting the Sale Agreement

Once your offer is accepted, a Sale Agreement (also called an Agreement of Sale) is prepared and signed by both parties. This is a legally binding document outlining:

• The agreed purchase price
  
• Payment terms
  
• Conditions of sale (e.g., subject to financing or inspections)
  
• Transfer timelines
  

Tip: Always have the agreement reviewed by a registered conveyancer or lawyer to ensure the terms are fair and legal.

Step 2: Paying the Deposit

Most sellers in Zimbabwe require a deposit, typically 10% to 30% of the purchase price. This is held in trust by the seller’s lawyer or estate agent, and signals your commitment to proceed with the transaction.

Important: Ensure your deposit is paid into a registered trust account, not directly to the seller.

Step 3: Due Diligence and Verifications

Before any property transfer can proceed, the buyer (or their lawyer) must verify that:

• The title deed is valid and registered
  
• The seller is the rightful owner
  
• There are no outstanding municipal rates, ZIMRA taxes, or mortgages
• The property has no caveats, disputes, or encumbrances
  

According to the Zimbabwe Law Society, failure to conduct thorough due diligence is a leading cause of property fraud and legal disputes.

Step 4: ZIMRA Capital Gains Tax Clearance

The seller must obtain a Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Clearance Certificate from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA). This confirms that tax obligations have been met.

Timeframe: Typically takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the transaction and ZIMRA processing times.

Step 5: Lodging Transfer Documents

Once taxes and rates are cleared, your conveyancer prepares documents to be lodged at the Deeds Office. These include:

• Title deed
  
• Stamped Agreement of Sale
  
• Transfer affidavits
  
• ZIMRA and rates clearance certificates
  
• Proof of payment for transfer fees and stamp duty
  

In Zimbabwe, all property transfers must be processed at the Deeds Registry in Harare or Bulawayo.

Step 6: Paying Transfer Fees and Stamp Duty

As the buyer, you are responsible for paying transfer costs, including:

• Stamp Duty: 1%–4% of the purchase price, depending on value
  
• Conveyancing Fees: Based on the Law Society tariff
  
• Deeds Office Fees
  

For a property worth US$100,000, total closing costs can range between US$3,000 to US$5,000, depending on the complexity.

Step 7: Registration of the Property

After lodging, the Deeds Office will examine the documents. If everything is in order, the property is registered in your name, and you officially become the new owner.

Registration timelines range from 30 to 90 days, but delays are common depending on workload, compliance issues, or backlogs.

Step 8: Handover and Occupation

Once the deed is registered:

• You receive the original title deed (or certified copy)
  
• The seller hands over the keys and vacant possession
• You can now take occupation of the property and connect utilities in your name
  

What If There’s No Title Deed?

In cases where properties are being sold via cession agreements, cooperatives, or offer letters:

• The process skips Deeds Office registration
  
• The change of ownership is recorded with the allocating authority (e.g., City Council, cooperative, developer)
  
• You’ll still need to pay admin and processing fees, and it’s advisable to notarise the documents
  

Caution: Always verify the legitimacy of the allocating authority and ensure the seller has the right to cede their rights.

Final Thoughts

The post-offer phase in a property transaction can be complex but it’s manageable with the right legal guidance. The key is to stay proactive, consult professionals, and ensure all documents and fees are in order.

Buying a home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Whether you’re closing on a house in Harare, a plot in Ruwa, or a townhouse in Borrowdale, understanding the closing process ensures a smooth and secure transaction.

For verified listings and professional agents, start your search at Property.co.zw Zimbabwe’s No.1 property marketplace, trusted by over 8,000 buyers monthly.