The Zimbabwe Real Estate Expo Day 1 Recap

Building Zimbabwe’s Multi-Billion Dollar Real Estate Industry: Strategies from the Zimbabwe Real Estate Expo

The Zimbabwe Real Estate Expo showcased an electrifying convergence of industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers on December 12. They were all united by a single goal: transforming Zimbabwe’s real estate landscape into a billion-dollar industry. This landmark event offered actionable insights, engaging panels, and forward-thinking strategies that underscored the immense potential of the sector.

Charting a Path Towards Growth

A recurring theme throughout the Expo was innovation in financing and development. From alternative funding models to democratizing property ownership, experts emphasized the need for community-driven solutions to overcome Zimbabwe’s capital constraints. As Chester Mhende, MD of Shelter Inc., noted, “The market requires community funding… a cooperative approach is critical.”

Fractional property ownership also stood out as a revolutionary concept, championed by industry leaders like Chrystal Mushonga of PropertyHandle. This model, which allows individuals to invest in portions of a property, opens doors for wealth creation across all socio-economic levels.

But financing is only one piece of the puzzle. The Expo also delved into structural strategies, such as engaging pension funds to channel public investments into cluster housing, commercial developments, and sustainable infrastructure. “Real estate is the most secure place to put your money,” Phillip Chabata of the Africa Diaspora Development Institute asserted, highlighting the potential for real estate to act as a cornerstone for economic stability.

Learning from Global Giants

Panel discussions drew inspiration from international success stories. Dubai’s meteoric rise as a global real estate hub served as a prime example of leveraging national assets, from climate to tourism, as key contributors to the sector. The Expo encouraged Zimbabwe to adopt a similar integrated approach, where industrial, agricultural, and tourism developments converge to bolster real estate’s GDP contribution.

As Justin Machibaya, MD of Homelux, aptly put it, “The first real estate asset is the boundaries of the country itself. It isn’t just about residential properties but the full ecosystem—industry, agriculture, tourist destinations.”

Propertybook: Leading the Digital Revolution

As Zimbabwe’s premier proptech platform, Propertybook is at the forefront of this transformation. By providing cutting-edge solutions for branding, digital marketing, and lead generation, Propertybook is redefining how real estate agents and developers connect with clients. This innovation has already yielded remarkable results, including a 57% increase in sales for one client—a testament to the power of technology in driving growth.

The platform’s emphasis on collaboration and accessibility aligns seamlessly with the Expo’s vision. Whether it’s listing a property on Zimbabwe’s most comprehensive portal or leveraging its targeted marketing tools, Propertybook is enabling stakeholders to unlock the full potential of their investments.

Towards a Sustainable Future

Sustainability was another pillar of discussion. With global conversations shifting towards greener construction practices, the Expo highlighted the importance of integrating recyclable materials and renewable energy sources. Audrey Nyoni, Creative Director of Evolve Interior Design, championed sustainable interiors, while Chris Togaraseyi urged stakeholders to prioritize solar and water-saving technologies.

However, as the discussions revealed, Zimbabwe’s real estate industry must balance pragmatism with idealism. Growth is happening now, and bridging the gap between traditional practices and sustainable innovations will require time, resources, and education.

Why It Matters

Real estate is more than bricks and mortar; it’s an engine for national development. The strategies outlined at the Expo—ranging from alternative financing to environmental sustainability—position Zimbabwe to become a regional leader in real estate innovation.

What’s Next?

The road to a billion-dollar industry is paved with opportunities, and the Zimbabwe Real Estate Expo has laid the foundation. For investors, developers, and policymakers, this is the time to act. Watch this space as platforms like Propertybook continue to drive the digital revolution, empowering Zimbabwe’s real estate sector to reach unprecedented heights.

Whether you’re an investor seeking your next big opportunity, a professional exploring sustainable practices, or a first-time homebuyer, Zimbabwe’s real estate market is ripe for growth. Be part of the journey.