Buying a house in Harare requires careful consideration of location, amenities, safety, and investment potential. With property prices ranging from US $25,000 to over US $850,000, selecting the right neighborhood is crucial for long-term value and lifestyle satisfaction.
2025 Market Snapshot:
- Harare has over 50 residential suburbs, with varying price ranges and facilities.
- Average house price in popular suburbs: US $120,000–US $250,000
- Luxury properties in Borrowdale and Mount Pleasant exceed US $850,000
This guide highlights the best neighborhoods to buy a house in Harare, based on affordability, amenities, safety, and growth potential.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Neighborhood
Before selecting a neighborhood, consider:
1. Safety and Security
- Check crime statistics and gated communities.
2. Access to Amenities
- Schools, hospitals, shopping centers, recreational facilities.
3. Property Value and Investment Potential
- Look for areas with steady price growth and rental demand.
4. Transport and Accessibility
- Road quality, proximity to CBD, and public transport availability.
5. Community and Lifestyle
- Family-friendly suburbs, cultural hubs, or quiet residential areas.
Top Neighborhoods to Buy a House in Harare
1. Borrowdale
Average property price: US $250,000–$850,000
Highlights:
- High-end residential suburb with luxury homes
- Excellent security and gated communities
- Close to shopping malls like Borrowdale Brooke and lifestyle amenities
Investment potential: High demand for rentals and resale
2. Mount Pleasant
Average property price: US $180,000–$450,000
Highlights:
- Central location, easy access to CBD and schools
- Popular with expatriates and middle-to-upper-class buyers
- Well-established infrastructure and services
Investment potential: Strong, consistent price appreciation
3. Avondale
Average property price: US $150,000–$300,000
Highlights:
- Close to city center with good commercial activity
- Restaurants, shopping, and recreational facilities
- Mix of older homes and new developments
Investment potential: Moderate to high for rental income
4. Highlands
Average property price: US $120,000–$280,000
Highlights:
- Family-friendly suburb with schools and parks
- Close to city but quieter than CBD-adjacent areas
- Mix of old and newly renovated properties
Investment potential: Good for long-term residential stability
5. Glen Lorne
Average property price: US $300,000–$700,000
Highlights:
- Exclusive suburb with scenic landscapes and large plots
- High-end residential properties with privacy
- Popular among professionals and expatriates
Investment potential: Luxury market, slower but stable growth
6. Chisipite
Average property price: US $200,000–$500,000
Highlights:
- Gated estates and family-oriented environment
- High-quality schools nearby
- Safe and well-maintained neighborhood
Investment potential: Strong, especially for family rentals
7. Avondale West
Average property price: US $130,000–$250,000
Highlights:
- Affordable option close to central Harare
- Good mix of residential and commercial amenities
- Increasing demand due to redevelopment projects
Investment potential: Growing, moderate rental income
8. Greendale
Average property price: US $160,000–$350,000
Highlights:
- Semi-luxury residential area with large plots
- Family-friendly, quiet, and secure
- Proximity to schools and shops
Investment potential: High for long-term residential value
Tips for Choosing the Right Neighborhood
1. Visit the Area
- Inspect the streets, traffic, and local amenities.
2. Check Property History
- Verify Title Deed, previous ownership, and zoning regulations.
3. Evaluate Rental Potential
- Even if buying to live, assess resale or rental demand for future flexibility.
4. Consider Future Development
- Look for areas with upcoming roads, schools, or shopping developments.
5. Engage Local Real Estate Agents
- Experienced agents provide market insights and access to off-market properties.
Investment Insights 2025
- Luxury suburbs (Borrowdale, Glen Lorne, Mount Pleasant) have slower turnover but high rental demand among expatriates.
- Middle-class suburbs (Highlands, Chisipite, Avondale) offer steady price appreciation and family-oriented lifestyle.
- Affordable areas (Avondale West, parts of Greendale) are ideal for first-time buyers or long-term investment with moderate returns.
Market trends:
- Average property value growth in Harare suburbs: 5–8% annually
- Rental yields: 4–7% per year, higher in Borrowdale and Mount Pleasant
Practical Examples
Example 1: First-Time Homebuyer
- Buys a 3-bedroom house in Highlands for US $180,000
- Chooses a neighborhood close to schools and shopping
- Property appreciates ~6% annually, resale value after 5 years ≈ US $240,000
Example 2: Investor Buying for Rental Income
- Purchases a townhouse in Avondale West for US $150,000
- Rents out to young professionals at US $1,200/month
- Annual rental yield ≈ 5–6% with capital appreciation over time
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