Separate emotion from due diligence
A good property can still become a bad purchase if ownership, boundaries, services, debt, or transfer steps are unclear. Before committing, slow the process down enough to verify the property and the seller, then compare the asking price against real alternatives.
Documents to request early
| Document or proof | What it helps confirm |
|---|---|
| Title deed or cession papers | The ownership route and whether transfer is possible. |
| Seller identity and authority | The person selling can legally sign or represent the owner. |
| Rates and utility balances | Outstanding council, water, levy, or service obligations. |
| Survey or stand information | Stand size, boundaries, servitudes, and possible encroachments. |
| Approved plans where relevant | Whether major structures match council approvals. |
| Written offer terms | Price, deposit, timelines, conditions, and who pays which costs. |
Questions to ask at the viewing
- Why is the owner selling?
- How long has the property been on the market?
- Are there tenants, family members, caretakers, or informal occupiers on the property?
- Are there outstanding repairs, leaks, boundary disputes, or neighbour issues?
- What water, power, sewer, internet, and road access does the property rely on?
- Which fixtures, fittings, tanks, solar equipment, or appliances are included in the sale?
Do not skip independent checks
Use a registered conveyancer, trusted estate professional, or relevant authority check before paying large sums. This is especially important for inherited property, company-owned property, divorce-related sales, cession stands, development stands, and deals where the seller is overseas.
A cheap property can be expensive
Discounts can be valid, but a price far below the area norm should trigger extra questions about title, access, debts, services, illegal structures, road reserves, wetlands, or disputes.
Author
HouseLink Editorial Team
Property resources team
Practical property guidance from the HouseLink Zimbabwe team.
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