What to Know Before Buying a Property in Harare, Bulawayo, and Other Major Cities in Zimbabwe

INTRO: Buying in the Big City? Here’s What You Need to Know

Urban living in Zimbabwe comes with convenience, access to amenities, and more than ever a growing demand for smart property investments. Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, and other major cities remain hotspots for buyers, developers, and diaspora investors looking for homes with value and long-term potential. But before you sign on the dotted line, there are key market trends, price points, and legal considerations you need to know to make a smart purchase in 2025.

Let’s unpack the essential insights for buying urban property in Zimbabwe’s largest cities.

The Urban Property Market at a Glance (2025)

1. Know the Neighbourhood Dynamics

Harare:

• Northern suburbs (Borrowdale, Gunhill, Mount Pleasant): Premium real estate with boreholes, solar, and security.
  
• Western & Southern suburbs (Madokero, Westgate, Highfield): More affordable with growing infrastructure, ideal for first-time buyers.
  
• Emerging zones (Mabvazuva, Sunway City): Popular for cluster developments and modern services.
  

Bulawayo:

• High-value homes in Burnside, Kumalo, and Hillside.
  
• Low- to mid-income options in Pumula, Nkulumane, and Cowdray Park many under US$40,000.
  

Mutare, Gweru, and Masvingo:

• Lower population density and less congestion.
  
• Good options for returnees and young professionals priced out of Harare.
  

2. Understand Pricing & Value

As of mid-2025:

• Harare North: Average prices exceed US$200,000–400,000 for 3- to 5-bedroom homes.
  
• Bulawayo mid-market homes: Between US$60,000 and US$90,000.
  
• Mutare & Masvingo: Prices start from US$25,000 in some high-density areas.
  
• Cluster homes in growing suburbs like Madokero, Ruwa, and Burnside: Priced between US$85,000 and US$150,000.
  

Price is influenced by:

• Title deed availability
  
• Access to utilities (ZESA, water, borehole)
  
• Road quality
  
• Security and fencing
  
• Nearby schools, hospitals, or commercial zones

3. Property Trends & Buyer Behaviour

• Over 400,000 users/month are searching for property online—mostly via mobile and Google searches.
  
• Listings that include virtual tours, professional photos, and detailed descriptions get 2x more engagement on property.co.zw.
  
• Diaspora buyers make up a significant percentage of city property transactions, often targeting USD-only listings.
  
• Turnkey homes with boreholes and solar are selling fastest—especially in cluster setups.
  

4. Infrastructure & Amenities Matter

Before buying, consider:

• Water supply: Is there a borehole, council water, or a water tank system?
  
• Power: Solar power is a major plus in areas with frequent load shedding.
  
• Access roads: Tarmac roads add value dust roads reduce price and resale potential.
  
• Schools & hospitals: Proximity adds resale appeal and rental potential.
  
• Internet availability: A necessity for remote workers and digital households.
  

5. Legal & Documentation Tips

• Ensure the property has a clean title deed, not under dispute or with rates arrears.
  
• Use a registered conveyancer to handle the transaction.
  
• Be aware of capital gains tax (20%) and transfer costs (~4%).
  
• If buying from a developer, check for:
  
  
  • Compliance with local council zoning
    
  • Approved plans
    
  • Infrastructure promises (roads, sewer, water)
    

6. Tips for First-Time Urban Buyers

• Visit the property in person or request a virtual walkthrough if abroad.
  
• Compare prices in the suburb on Property.co.zw to avoid overpaying.
  
• Budget for extras: Legal fees, taxes, and connecting services can add 10–20% to total cost.
  
• Beware of scams avoid paying deposits without signed legal documentation.
  

Final Thoughts: Buy Smart, Not Just Big

Whether you're eyeing a mansion in Borrowdale, a townhouse in Madokero, or a starter home in Nkulumane, buying in Zimbabwe’s major cities requires planning, awareness, and local insight. Prices are rising, infrastructure is still patchy in some areas, and legal paperwork can be a minefield if you're not careful.

But with the right due diligence and access to current listings on Property.co.zw, buying property in Zimbabwe’s top cities can be one of the most rewarding investments of your life.

Need Help?

• Explore our suburb guides for Harare, Bulawayo, and beyond
  
• Speak to a verified estate agent with experience in urban markets
  
• Download our [Free Buyer Checklist] (if offering)