Buying a Deceased Estate Property in Zimbabwe: What to Check

The seller must have authority

When the owner has died, the person showing the property may not automatically have authority to sell it. Buyers should confirm the estate process, who is authorised to sign, whether beneficiaries agree, and whether any occupant or heir disputes the sale.

Buyer checklist

• Confirm the deceased owner and property details.
• Ask who is legally authorised to represent the estate.
• Check whether heirs, surviving spouse, or beneficiaries have objections.
• Confirm rates, utilities, debts, and occupation status.
• Use a conveyancer or legal practitioner before paying a deposit.
• Make the sale conditional on proper estate and transfer steps.