What to Consider When Buying a Property for Airbnb or Short-Term Letting in Zimbabwe

Your Guide to Profitable Vacation Rentals and Executive Stays

Zimbabwe’s tourism and urban travel sectors are steadily rebounding, and short-term rentals like Airbnb are becoming an attractive real estate investment option. Whether catering to business travellers in Harare or holidaymakers in Victoria Falls, buying the right property is crucial to success.

In 2024, short-term rentals in Zimbabwe generated an estimated US$25 million, with top-performing hosts earning between US$800 and US$2,000/month, depending on location and seasonality. Platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com are now popular among local and international visitors looking for convenient, affordable accommodation.

Here’s what to consider before diving in.

1. Pick the Right Location

Not every suburb is ideal for short-term letting. You’ll want an area with:

• High visitor footfall (tourism or business)
  
• Proximity to airports, hospitals, CBDs, or leisure spots
  
• Security and good amenities

Top Areas for Airbnb in Zimbabwe:

According to Property.co.zw data, the average price of a 2-bed apartment suitable for Airbnb in Avondale or Avenues is US$40,000–US$70,000.

Check more accurate property values by suburb via our Property Price Tool.

2. Understand Your Audience

Who are you hosting?

• Tourists need self-catering homes near attractions (e.g., Victoria Falls, Kariba, Nyanga)
  
• Business travellers prefer studio or 1-bed units in secure, central locations
  
• Diaspora visitors look for homes with multiple bedrooms and strong WiFi
  

Tip: 58% of Zimbabwean Airbnb guests in 2024 were from the diaspora, mainly visiting during peak periods like Easter, August, and December.

3. Choose the Right Property Type

Short-term renters expect comfort, style, and functionality.

Properties with backup power, solar, WiFi, and DSTV access see 15–30% more bookings than those without.

4. Budget for Startup and Ongoing Costs

Beyond the purchase price, plan for:

A well-furnished apartment in a high-demand area like Borrowdale or Victoria Falls can generate returns of 8%–12% annually.

5. Legal Requirements & Compliance

As of 2025, Zimbabwe does not have formal Airbnb regulations, but investors must:

• Ensure title deeds or long-term lease agreements are in place
  
• Get approval from sectional title body corporates (if in a complex)
  
• Register with ZIMRA if earnings exceed the tax threshold
  
• Consider business licensing for higher-volume operations
  

Failure to comply may result in fines or suspension from listing platforms.

6. Marketing and Booking Platform Strategy

Success in short-term letting is 50% property and 50% presentation.

• Use high-quality photography
  
• Highlight amenities like WiFi, solar backup, gated access
  
• Respond quickly to inquiries
  
• Offer discounts for early bookings or long stays

Tip: The average guest books 3–7 days, with peak bookings in April, August, and December holidays.

7. DIY or Property Manager?

Managing an Airbnb isn’t passive income unless you hire help.

• If you live far or are based abroad, consider a local property management service.
  
• Good managers handle guest check-in, maintenance, cleaning, and even marketing.
  

Expect to pay 10–20% of rental income, but it’s worth it if you want peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Buying a property for Airbnb or short-term letting in Zimbabwe is a solid investment if done right. The key is to choose a high-demand location, understand your target audience, furnish thoughtfully, and manage professionally.

Done right, short-term letting can outperform traditional rentals in terms of monthly income and flexibility especially for diaspora investors looking to earn while staying connected to home.

Start your search today on Property.co.zw your go-to source for verified listings, suburb price trends, and rental potential across Zimbabwe.