Immovable Property Due Diligence in Zimbabwe

There is an increase in construction in Zimbabwe. There are a lot of housing co-operatives, contractors and other persons who are dominating the construction and housing scene in Zimbabwe. It is important for parties entering into such transactions to conduct due diligence.

Immovable property due diligence in Zimbabwe is simple. When one is buying a property from a Seller directly or through an Estate Agent it is important to verify whether the immovable property is held under title. Put differently, to ascertain whether the immovable property has Title Deeds. If an immovable property is held under title it is important to ascertain the authenticity of the Title Deed as well as to establish whether there are any encumbrances on the immovable property i.e. caveats, mortgage bonds etc.

If an immovable property is not held under title, it is held under cession. One would need to ascertain the true ownership and status of an immovable property held under cession from a Local Authority. It is important to do so especially before one signs a Deed of Assignment.

If after the due diligence exercise the client is satisfied with the authenticity and legality of the ownership of an immovable property, they can go ahead with the next step which is the drafting and preparation of the Sale Agreement. Again, as part of the due diligence of an immovable property in Zimbabwe, it is important to ensure that a registered legal practitioner goes through the Sale Agreement before you sign it.