Looking to rent a farm in Zimbabwe? It's a big step with plenty of questions. Whether you're hoping to start growing your own crops or you own land that could be earning you income, the farm rental process in Zimbabwe has its challenges. Without good information, finding your way through it all can be tough.
This guide is tailor-made for both farm owners and potential tenants in Zimbabwe who want to understand the nuts and bolts of agricultural land rentals. No fancy farming degree needed—just a willingness to learn the ropes of Zimbabwe's unique agricultural rental landscape.
In 2025, farm renting in Zimbabwe comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. With 166 farm properties currently on the market valued at approximately $137,050,000, there's plenty of agricultural land waiting for the right hands to make it productive.
As Zimbabwe's leading real estate platform with over 7,000 property listings across 80 cities and regions, Propertybook has the soil-deep insights you need to make informed decisions. Let's dig into everything you need to know about farm rentals in Zimbabwe.
Which place is good for farming in Zimbabwe?
Before jumping into the rental process, let's get our boots dirty with some hard facts about Zimbabwe's agricultural land market.
Current data from Propertybook shows there are 166 farm properties available nationwide, with a combined value of $137,050,000. The average farm price sits at around $415,000, with an average price per square meter of $18.
Provincial differences matter when you're choosing where to plant your roots:
- Mashonaland East: Home to 99 farm properties with an average price of $490,000
- Harare: Features 9 farm properties with an average price of $3,474,000
Zimbabwe is rich in fertile farmland, and residents don't have to look much farther than Harare for great land. But because Harare commands such a premium price, other great farming areas in Zimbabwe include Marondera, Ruwa, Arcturus, Goromonzi and Beatrice.
For more offerings, visit the farms for sale in Zimbabwe page on Propertybook.
For those looking to rent rather than buy, expect annual rental yields between 5-8%, with typical lease terms running 1-3 years.
Farm Rental Process: From Soil to Signature
The journey from finding a farm to signing on the dotted line has several important steps. Let's walk through them one by one.
Finding the Right Agricultural Land
Your search for the perfect piece of farming heaven starts with knowing exactly what you need. There's no such thing as learning "which farming is most profitable in Zimbabwe." It's all a matter of know which farming to do on which kind of land. Ask yourself:
- What crops or livestock do you plan to raise?
- How much land do you need?
- What infrastructure is essential (irrigation, storage, housing)?
- What's your monthly budget?
Once you've answered these questions, you can begin your search through:
- Online platforms: Propertybook.co.zw features numerous agricultural listings
- Local agricultural offices: Often have information about available farmland
- Word of mouth: Local networks can lead to opportunities not publicly listed
- Agricultural shows: Great places to connect with landowners
Property Inspections: Beyond Kicking the Tires
Farm inspections go well beyond what you'd look for in a residential property. When viewing a farm, pay close attention to:
- Water sources: Check boreholes, dams, rivers, and irrigation systems
- Soil quality: Request soil test results or arrange for testing
- Boundary markers: Ensure clear demarcation of the property
- Infrastructure: Evaluate condition of buildings, fencing, roads, and storage facilities
- Access to markets: Consider distance to major roads and markets
- Power supply: Verify electricity connection or alternative power sources
It's recommended that inspections happen bi-annually at minimum, according to Propertybook data.
Understanding Rental Rates
Farm rental prices in Zimbabwe vary widely based on size, location, infrastructure, and land quality. Based on our research:
- Small farms in Zimbzbwe (3-20 hectares): $400-$3,500 per month
- Big farms in Zimbabwe (90-166 hectares): $2,500-$8,000 per month
For example, a Rainham Plot (3 hectares) might go for around $3,500 per month and include boreholes, 3 offices, a warehouse and 11-roomed staff quarters. Meanwhile, larger operations like a 13-hectare Goromonzi Farm might have application-based pricing depending on intended use.
Lease Agreements: Your Agricultural Contract Blueprint
A solid farm lease agreement is worth its weight in gold. Here's what it should cover:
Essential Components of Farm Lease Agreements
Every good farm lease should clearly spell out:
- Property details: Exact boundaries, size, and included infrastructure
- Duration: Start and end dates of the lease
- Rental amount: Payment frequency, methods, and consequences of late payment
- Usage rights: Permitted agricultural activities and restrictions
- Maintenance responsibilities: Who handles what repairs
- Infrastructure usage: Rights to existing buildings, equipment, and facilities
- Insurance requirements: Coverage expectations for both parties
- Dispute resolution: Process for handling disagreements
- Renewal terms: Conditions for extending the lease
- Termination clauses: Circumstances under which either party can end the agreement
Special Considerations for Farm Leases
Agricultural leases differ from residential ones in several key ways:
- Seasonal considerations: Aligning lease terms with growing seasons
- Crop rotation provisions: Agreements on sustainable farming practices
- Infrastructure development: Rules for adding new structures or systems
- Subletting provisions: Rights to bring in partners or workers
- Disaster clauses: What happens if drought, flood, or other natural disasters occur
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities: Know Your Ground
As a farm tenant in Zimbabwe, you have specific rights and responsibilities worth understanding before you sign anything.
Tenant Rights
Farm tenants generally have the right to:
- Peaceful enjoyment: Use the land as specified in the lease without undue interference
- Fair notice: Receive proper notification before landlord visits
- Infrastructure access: Use agreed-upon buildings, water sources, and other facilities
- Protection from arbitrary eviction: Following the terms of your legal lease agreement
- Receipt of services: Access to utilities and services as specified in the lease
Tenant Responsibilities
Your obligations as a tenant typically include:
- Timely rent payment: Meeting financial obligations as scheduled
- Proper land use: Following agreed-upon farming practices
- Maintenance: Keeping the property in good condition
- Compliance with laws: Following agricultural and environmental regulations
- Reporting issues: Notifying the landlord of significant problems
- Property return: Leaving the land in the agreed-upon condition at lease end
Landlord Obligations: Managing Your Agricultural Asset
Farm owners have their own set of responsibilities to ensure a successful rental arrangement.
Legal Obligations
As a farm landlord, you must:
- Provide legal access: Ensure tenant can properly access and use the property
- Maintain structural elements: Keep major infrastructure in working order
- Respect tenant privacy: Give proper notice before visiting the property
- Handle major repairs: Address significant issues that affect farming operations
- Provide documentation: Supply all necessary legal papers and permits
Best Practices for Farm Landlords
Beyond legal requirements, successful landlords:
- Conduct thorough tenant screening (including farming experience and financial stability)
- Document property condition before lease signing
- Maintain clear communication channels
- Respond promptly to serious concerns
- Consider offering longer leases for stability
Navigating Zimbabwe's Agricultural Legal Framework
Farm rentals in Zimbabwe come with unique legal considerations that both parties should understand.
Key Legal Resources
When embarking on a farm rental journey, consult with:
- Zimbabwe Agricultural Land Board: Located at Cnr Samora Machel & Leopold Takawira in Harare (Open Mon-Fri: 7:30am-4:30pm), they provide guidance on farm rental agreements and land use regulations.
- Agricultural Land Rental Database: Visit the Zimbabwe National Property Registry in Harare (Open Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm, Sat: 9am-12pm) for official documentation and registration.
- National Land Valuation Office: Located in the Mukwati Building in Harare CBD, they can assist with determining fair rental values.
Documentation Requirements
Be prepared to provide or obtain:
- Valid identification for all parties
- Proof of land ownership (for landlords)
- Property assessment documents
- Tax compliance certificates
- Environmental compliance certification (where applicable)
Dispute Resolution: When the Harvest Turns Sour
Even with the best agreements, disagreements can sprout up. Here's how to handle them.
Common Farm Rental Disputes
Typical areas of contention include:
- Rent payment issues
- Property maintenance disagreements
- Land use conflicts
- Boundary disputes
- Water rights and access problems
- Infrastructure repair responsibilities
Resolution Pathways
When conflicts arise, try these approaches in order:
- Direct negotiation: Start with a calm, fact-based discussion
- Written communication: Document concerns and proposed solutions
- Mediation: Bring in a neutral third party (like an agricultural extension officer)
- Legal consultation: Seek advice from an attorney specializing in agricultural law
- Court proceedings: As a last resort if other methods fail
Tips for a Successful Farm Rental Experience
Whether you're a tenant looking to grow crops or a landlord looking to grow income, these tips can help your agricultural arrangement flourish.
For Tenants
- Do your homework: Research the land's history, soil quality, and water access before committing
- Get it in writing: Never rely on verbal agreements for important terms
- Budget for variables: Agricultural operations often have unexpected expenses
- Build relationships: Connect with neighboring farmers and local agricultural offices
- Document everything: Take photos of property condition and keep records of all communications
For Landlords
- Know your market: Research current rental rates for similar properties
- Screen thoroughly: Verify potential tenants' farming experience and financial stability
- Set clear expectations: Detail all responsibilities in the lease agreement
- Consider the long view: Sometimes a reliable long-term tenant at a fair price is better than maximizing short-term profit
- Stay informed: Keep up with agricultural regulations and market conditions
Ready to Take the Plunge?
Finding the right farm to rent—or the right tenant for your agricultural property—can be as rewarding as a bumper harvest after a perfect growing season. With clear understanding of the rental process, rights, responsibilities, and legal framework, you're now better equipped to make informed decisions.
Remember that the most successful farm rental arrangements grow from thorough preparation, clear communication, and mutual respect between landlord and tenant.
For the latest farm rental listings across Zimbabwe, visit www.propertybook.co.zw and start plowing the path to your agricultural success story today.
Data last updated: April 2025. Property statistics sourced from Propertybook's database of 7,000+ property listings. Market conditions may vary. Contact a registered agent for current rates and availability.
