Frequently Asked Questions
Questions, answered.
30+ common questions about buying, selling, and valuing property in Bulawayo.
01 · Buying
Buying
Deposits, diaspora buying, mortgages, title, stamp duty, conveyancing.
How much deposit do I need to buy a house in Bulawayo?
Typically 10% of the purchase price, paid into the conveyancer's trust account on signing the agreement of sale. Some sellers accept smaller deposits when the balance is backed by a strong guarantee, but 10% is the standard starting point.
Can I buy property in Bulawayo from abroad?
Yes. Diaspora buyers regularly purchase in Bulawayo. You'll need a local representative with power of attorney (often a family member), WhatsApp video walk-throughs for viewings, and a secure channel to transfer deposit funds. I handle remote transactions every month.
Can I get a mortgage in Zimbabwe?
Limited bond availability exists through some Zimbabwean banks, with strict income and employment criteria. Most residential buyers in Bulawayo transact in cash or use hybrid financing — part cash, part family support, part instalment agreement with the seller.
What's the difference between a title deed and a cession?
A title deed is full registered ownership at the Deeds Office — the strongest form of tenure in Zimbabwe. A cession transfers rights to a stand (common in high-density suburbs) but is not a registered deed. Both are legitimate; the paperwork and risks differ. Always ask which applies before signing.
How much is stamp duty when buying property in Zimbabwe?
Stamp duty is a banded government tax on property transfers. Rates are revised periodically. Budget roughly 1–4% of the purchase price as a working figure; the conveyancer will calculate the exact amount before transfer.
What does a conveyancer actually do?
A conveyancer is a lawyer who prepares the agreement of sale, calculates transfer duties, obtains rates and bond clearance, lodges documents at the Deeds Office, and registers the new title in your name. The process typically takes 8–12 weeks from signing.
Do I need to get a house inspected before buying?
Strongly recommended, especially for older properties. An independent builder or structural engineer will check roof, plumbing, electrical, and structural issues. The cost is small compared to the problems it can surface — and gives you leverage to negotiate or withdraw if needed.
Can the seller accept a higher offer after mine?
Only up until the agreement of sale is signed and the deposit is received. Before that, nothing is binding and sellers sometimes do switch to a higher offer. The practical takeaway: once you and the seller agree terms, move quickly to sign and pay the deposit.
02 · Selling
Selling
Valuation, commission, diaspora sellers, bond clearance, timing, marketing.
How do you value my property?
I use recent comparable sales in your suburb, adjusted for your property's condition, features, and current demand. This is done on a walk-through, not a desktop estimate. I explain the comparables so you can see where the number comes from.
What's the agent commission when selling?
Standard Bulawayo market rate, agreed in writing before we list, and payable on successful transfer. No hidden fees. You'll see the exact figure on your valuation summary before any commitment.
Can I sell my Bulawayo property from abroad?
Yes. I regularly sell for diaspora sellers. You'll need power of attorney to a local representative for signatures, and I keep you updated by WhatsApp or email. Video walk-throughs and photos are sent before listing so you can approve the marketing.
Can I sell if I still have a bond on the property?
Yes. The bank issues a cancellation figure, the conveyancer settles the bond from the sale proceeds at transfer, and any surplus is released to you. This is completely routine.
What if I have rates arrears on the property?
Arrears must be cleared before transfer — the municipality will not issue a rates clearance otherwise. You can settle them from the sale proceeds at transfer. It is wise to get a statement from the council at the start of the sale so there are no surprises late in the process.
When is the best time to sell in Bulawayo?
Activity is steady year-round, with a small seasonal uptick in autumn and early summer. The bigger factor is pricing and preparation — a well-priced, well-presented property sells in any season; an overpriced one stalls whenever you list it.
How do you market my property?
Professional photography, a detailed written listing on robeen.co.zw and Stonebridge Real Estate channels, direct circulation to my qualified buyer WhatsApp list, and targeted social posts. Open houses or private viewings are scheduled based on what fits your property and your schedule.
Can I sell privately without an agent?
You can, but it is rarely faster or cheaper. Private sellers tend to mis-price, attract unqualified buyers, handle viewings inefficiently, and stumble on paperwork. The hidden cost is usually months more on market. If you still want to try, I can at least give you a free valuation to start from.
03 · Valuation
Valuation
How a free valuation works, what to expect, and why the method matters.
Is the valuation really free?
Yes. Free and no-obligation. I use it both as a genuine service and as a low-pressure way to introduce myself to potential sellers. Whether you list with me or not, the valuation itself costs you nothing.
How accurate is your valuation?
Grounded in recent comparable sales, current demand, and condition. In most cases the valuation sits within 5–10% of the eventual sale price when the property is listed at my recommended number. A portal estimate or neighbour's number usually isn't that close.
Will my valuation request be kept confidential?
Yes. Your details are used only to prepare the valuation and follow up with you. I don't share or sell contact information, and I don't market your property to the world until you explicitly instruct me to list.
How is the valuation actually done?
I visit the property (or review photos and docs for diaspora sellers), inspect key features and condition, review 3–5 recent comparable transactions, factor in current market demand, and produce a written recommendation. You get the number plus the reasoning behind it.
04 · Rentals
Rentals
Renting in Bulawayo, deposits, leases, and landlord support.
Do you handle rentals?
My primary focus is sales, but I do assist selected landlords with finding and vetting tenants, especially on properties I've previously sold. For larger-scale rental management, I refer to trusted partners in Bulawayo.
What deposit is normal for a rental in Bulawayo?
Typically one or two months' rent as a security deposit, plus the first month's rent in advance. Some landlords request three months' rent up front; this varies by property and market conditions.
How long are residential leases in Bulawayo?
Most residential leases run for twelve months with renewal clauses. Shorter six-month leases exist, particularly on furnished properties targeting shorter-term tenants.
Who handles maintenance during a lease?
Standard practice in Bulawayo is that the landlord handles structural, plumbing, and major appliance repairs; tenants handle day-to-day upkeep and minor fixes. The lease should spell out the split clearly.
05 · Working with Robeen
Working with Robeen
Registration, hours, office location, response times, and languages.
Are you registered with the Estate Agents Council of Zimbabwe?
I work under Stonebridge Real Estate, which operates within the framework of the Estate Agents Council of Zimbabwe (EACZ). Client transactions go through the agency's registered processes for your protection.
What are your working hours?
Monday to Friday 8:00 to 17:00, and Saturdays 8:00 to 13:00. Outside those hours I still reply to urgent WhatsApp messages. Sunday viewings are arranged on request.
Where is your office?
Stonebridge Real Estate, 8 Fife Street (between Connaught Avenue and Masotsha Ndlovu Avenue), Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
How quickly will I hear back?
I typically reply within two hours during business hours. WhatsApp is fastest. If I'm in a viewing or meeting, you'll hear back the moment I'm free.
Can I just WhatsApp you?
Yes. WhatsApp is my preferred channel for most client conversations. The number is +263 78 783 4034. Voice notes, photos, and video tours all work.
What languages do you speak?
English, Ndebele, and Shona. Clients choose whichever is most comfortable for them.