Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Buying property in Zimbabwe is a major milestone whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor. With property values steadily rising in key urban areas like Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls, making an informed decision is more important than ever.
According to data from Property.co.zw, average house prices in high-demand suburbs like Borrowdale and Mount Pleasant range between US$180,000 and US$250,000, with apartments in areas like Avondale and Newlands fetching US$90,000 to US$130,000. Yet, despite the price tags, some properties may come with hidden issues.
This guide gives you a 360° look at what to inspect during a property viewing so you don’t buy with your eyes closed.
1. First Impressions: Curb Appeal & Neighbourhood
Check:
- Roof, gutters, paint condition, yard care, boundary walls
- Surrounding properties are they well-kept?
- Access to roads, street lighting, and amenities
Did You Know?
Properties in neighbourhoods with good curb appeal can fetch up to 12% more on resale than similar homes in poorly maintained areas (Property.co.zw Trends Report, Q1 2025).
2. Exterior Structure: The Shell of the House
Look for:
- Large cracks in walls or foundation
- Rusted roofing sheets or sagging trusses
- Water damage near base of exterior walls
Tip: Some buyers overlook roof condition, yet full roof replacements in Zimbabwe can cost between US$5,000 – US$10,000, depending on size and material.
3. Interior Walkthrough: Room by Room
Bedrooms & Living Areas
- Uneven floors or broken tiles
- Moldy smells = possible water damage
- Natural light and ventilation
Kitchen & Bathrooms
- Cabinet condition (watch for termites)
- Water pressure and drainage
- Toilet flushing and plumbing leaks
- Geyser condition
Property.co.zw user data (2024) shows that listings mentioning "modern bathrooms" and “fully fitted kitchens” generate 28% more viewing requests.
4. Electrical & Plumbing Checks
Inspect:
- Plug socket placement and condition
- Lighting quality
- Exposed or frayed wires
- Geyser age and function
In older homes (pre-2000), expect to budget US$1,200 – US$2,500 for rewiring and plumbing updates.
5. Layout & Storage
Consider:
- Flow from room to room
- Adequate storage space (built-in cupboards, pantry)
- Is there space for your appliances and furniture?
Buyers in Zimbabwe increasingly favour open-plan living, with a 32% increase in demand for such layouts in 2025 (Property.co.zw Analytics Dashboard).
6. Security Features
Check for:
- Burglar bars on windows
- Strong locks and secure doors
- Electric fence, CCTV, or alarm system
Suburbs with strong community security setups like Arlington, Borrowdale Brooke, and Bluff Hill report higher buyer interest and lower time-on-market rates.
7. Outdoor & Utility Areas
Inspect:
- Borehole access, water tanks
- Drainage during rainy season
- Garden space and outdoor buildings (e.g. servants' quarters, sheds)
- Driveway space and garage
With ongoing water shortages in urban Zimbabwe, listings with boreholes or water tanks get 40% more enquiries on Property.co.zw.
8. Key Questions to Ask the Agent or Owner
- What’s the age of the property?
- Are there any known structural issues?
- Is the title deed available and clean?
- What’s included in the sale (e.g., solar system, geyser, fitted stove)?
- Monthly council rates, water bills, ZESA connection?
Bonus: Always check if the property is listed with a licensed real estate agent. You can verify agents via Property.co.zw’s Verified Agent Directory.
9. View at Different Times
Revisit the property at various times of day to assess:
- Daylight vs evening lighting
- Noise levels
- Neighbour behaviour
- Peak hour traffic flow
A property that seems peaceful at 2 p.m. may be a traffic nightmare at 6 p.m.
10. Bring Another Set of Eyes
Invite a trusted friend, contractor, or family member to accompany you. They can help spot:
- Minor defects
- Layout flaws
- Deal-breakers you might overlook
Final Thought: The True Value is in the Details
With real estate prices trending upward in Zimbabwe Harare property values rose by 11.3% from mid-2024 to mid-2025 buying smart is more critical than ever.
A thorough property viewing helps you spot warning signs, confirm value, and avoid nasty surprises. Whether you're looking for a starter home in Highfield, an investment property in Waterfalls, or a luxury home in Glen Lorne, use this checklist as your buyer’s compass.
Looking for Verified Listings?
Explore homes, apartments, and land for sale at www.property.co.zw – Zimbabwe’s No.1 Property Marketplace.
Over 8,000 active listings, 200+ agents, and trusted guidance for every step of your homebuying journey.
