How to Buy Council Stands for Sale in Harare: A Comprehensive Guide

Zimbabweans are in desperate need of more homes. There is currently a housing backlog of up to one million homes that need to be built. Key to fulfilling these needs are council stands.

Council stands are meant to provide affordable housing for low-to-middle-income Zimbabweans. This makes knowing how to purchase them of critical importance.

As Zimbabwe’s leading property portal, with a decade of experience and over 8,500 listings, as well as a network of over 2,000 agents, Propertybook is primely positioned to provide information on the necessary procedure, key locations, price points and essential steps to attaining council land. 

It is an organized, but competitive process. So it’s important to be informed and prepared. Here’s everything you need to know.

What are Council Stands in Harare?

A council stand is land owned by the local authorities, such as the city or district council. This land is offered for sale to the public for residential, commercial, or agricultural purposes.

The City of Harare often offers land in urban areas to accommodate the rapidly growing population. Purchasing a stand through the council is a more affordable option than buying land from private sellers, but it does require patience and a clear understanding of the process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing a Council Stand in Harare

1. Determine Your Eligibility and Area of Interest

Only certain, eligible people can actually purchase a council stand in Harare. Applicants generally need to be residents of Harare, although there are occasional exceptions for people from surrounding areas. They are also usually limited to low-to-middle-income applications, who don’t own any land. But again, exceptions may apply. 

Priority is often given to people with disabilities, widows or other vulnerable groups.

It is then important to decide which location in Harare you are interested in. The City of Harare offers stands in various neighborhoods, with varying densities (low, medium, or high). The price of a stand can depend significantly on the location—central, well-developed areas will be more expensive than stands in outlying districts.

It is therefore important to realize that council stands are often in areas that are underdeveloped in terms of infrastructure and other amenities. 

2. Apply for a Stand

Once you’ve decided on the location, you must submit an application through the City of Harare’s Housing Department, which is on the second floor of the Town House, at the corner of Jason Moyo Avenue and Julius Nyerere.

The application typically requires you to fill out a form detailing personal information, proof of residence, and evidence of your financial ability to afford the stand, as well as evidence of your current living conditions, especially if it’s overcrowded or otherwise unsuitable. 

It’s essential to have and submit all required documents at once to avoid delays.

3. The Waitlist and Selection Process

After submitting your application, you will likely be placed on a waiting list. Due to high demand for stands, there is usually a backlog. 

The City of Harare allocates stands based on factors such as priority needs (e.g., vulnerable groups, first-time homebuyers) and the availability of land in the desired area. The selection process is often competitive, so it’s important to be patient and proactive by following up on your application status.

4. Understand the Costs and Payment Plan

Once you’ve been selected for a stand, you will receive an official offer letter detailing the price, location, and payment terms. The cost of council stands in Harare can vary significantly. For example, stands in high-density suburbs like Mbare or Glen View may start from around USD 5,000, while those in more developed or sought-after areas often cost upwards of USD 40,000. Prices often reflect infrastructure development, such as access to roads, water, and electricity.

Payment is typically structured as a deposit, followed by installments. The council offers flexible payment plans, which can range from a few months to several years, and are tailored to your specific income level. 

Be sure to understand the payment structure before signing any agreements to avoid unexpected costs.

5. Sign the Offer Letter and Agreement

Once the terms are clear, you have read and understood all the fine print, and you are satisfied with the payment structure, the next step is to sign an offer letter and purchase agreement. 

The agreement will include the purchase price, payment schedule, and conditions of sale. This legally binding document should be carefully reviewed, and it’s advisable to consult a legal expert to ensure all clauses are in your favor.

6. Title Deed and Ownership Transfer

After you’ve made the necessary payments, the final step is the transfer of ownership. This involves having the stand surveyed, registering it under your name, and receiving a title deed. Depending on the council, this process may take several months, so be prepared for some administrative delays. However, once the title deed is in your name, you have full ownership of the stand, which you can either develop or sell later on.

Price Points for Council Stands in Harare

The cost of council stands in Harare varies depending on several factors, such as location, infrastructure, and zoning type. 

Low-density areas or stands further from the city center tend to be more affordable, with prices starting around USD 5,000. Medium- and high-density stands in established areas may range from USD 10,000 to USD 30,000, and some upscale or highly sought-after locations may exceed USD 40,000. 

It's important to note that these prices may fluctuate based on the availability of land, inflation, and local economic conditions.

Final Tips and Considerations

Legal Assistance: Given the complexities involved in council land transactions, seeking legal advice is recommended, especially to ensure that the land title transfer process is smooth and free of complications. Many reputable law firms might consider doing pro bono work for low-to-middle-income applications. 

Infrastructure and Development: Some council stands may not have basic infrastructure such as roads, water, or electricity. It’s important to assess the development status of the land before purchasing, as the council may offer to develop the necessary services, or you may need to contribute toward infrastructure development.

Be Prepared for Delays: The process of purchasing a council stand is often time-consuming, especially due to the backlog of applications and delays in processing. Stay patient and regularly check on your application status.

Purchasing a council stand in Harare offers an opportunity to own land at more affordable prices than the private market. However, the process involves various stages—application, payment, legal documentation, and potential delays. By understanding the costs, location choices, and necessary steps, you can better navigate the council land buying process. For the most up-to-date information, visit the City of Harare's Housing Department to ensure you’re following the correct procedure and fulfilling all requirements.

For more information, check out Propertybook’s comprehensive blog for all things related to property in Harare and in Zimbabwe.