Let's Talk About Realty

How many times has a colleague or friend mentioned a “difficult to imagine” opportunity, an industry to invest in, a project to back, and you hesitated? Someone talks about putting money into a particular sector for future gains; you nod, you stall… then the moment passes. Does that sound familiar? Life is full of these moments. You reassure yourself that next time you will jump in. But then again, you blink. Reassurances are comforting, but they do not move money, and they do not build wealth. You have heard the phrase, “You need to spend money to make money.” It is true, however, no future investment is risk-free, even property. So, when is the best time to buy? When is the best time to sell? That is the real question. Right now, in Zimbabwe, we are seeing a surge in cluster and townhouse developments. But it is crucial to understand not all developments are equal. That is a thought borrowed from  Animal Farm  by George Orwell: “All animals are equal, but some animals are mo...

Did you spend 2025 in “wait‑and‑see” mode, perhaps watching the market, weighing your options, trying to decide when to make your next move? As we step back into the office and reset for the new year, one trend in Harare is becoming impossible to ignore. You’ve seen it. I’ve seen it. Everyone in the market is talking about it. The rise of the townhouse complex. If 2025 was the year of hesitation, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of strategic action . And nothing captures that shift better than the surge in demand for cluster living. Whether you’re a young professional buying your first home or a diaspora investor looking for a clean, low‑maintenance asset, the townhouse is ticking every box. Here’s why I believe 2026 will be the Year of the Cluster . 1. The Lock‑Up‑and‑Go Lifestyle Is Now Essential The romance of the one‑acre northern suburbs home is fading fast. Between mowing lawns, maintaining pools, and managing security, a standalone house has quietly become a part‑time j...

The Hidden Cost of Mispricing and the Power of Perceived Value We’ve all said it: “It’s overpriced.” “They’re asking for too much.” “You’ve priced me out.” These phrases echo a deeper truth: price and value are not the same thing . Price is a number. Value is perception. And perception is shaped by timing, presentation, and emotional resonance.  The Misconception of Starting High In property and in many industries, there’s a flawed strategy: Start high, let them negotiate down. But here’s the danger: when a product is correctly priced, it’s unyielding . It doesn’t invite negotiation; it invites the right buyer. The one who sees the value and moves swiftly. Overpricing, on the other hand, delays movement. It breeds doubt. It creates a psychological barrier between desire and action. And in real estate, time is not neutral. It’s corrosive.  The Risk of Lingering A property that stays too long on the market becomes a question mark: What’s wrong with ...

“Expensive.” “Overpriced.” “Undervalued.” These are the words that echo through conversations about the housing market often spoken with frustration, skepticism, or resignation. And while there’s a kernel of truth in each, they don’t tell the full story. Yes, property prices can feel inflated. Yes, some listings seem to defy logic. And yes, buyers and sellers alike often question whether true value still exists. But here’s the twist: value isn’t just about numbers. It’s about perspective, timing, and strategy. In our previous article, we explored “the cost of cheap” how chasing low prices can sometimes lead to costly compromises. But that’s just one layer of the housing market’s complexity. The real intrigue lies in how perception shapes decision-making, and how savvy navigation can turn apparent disadvantages into golden opportunities. The Mirage of Price: Why Expensive Doesn’t Always Mean Overpriced Let’s start with a metaphor: imagine a diamond buried in sand. To the untrai...

As a lover of all things tech, I’ve noticed a curious pattern that speaks volumes about how we value protection, investment, and expertise. Someone saves up for months to buy the latest smartphone. It’s sleek, powerful, and full of potential. But what happens next? They rush to buy the cheapest case they can find, a $2 plastic shell that barely fits, barely protects, and barely honours the value of what it holds. They feel satisfied. The device is “protected.” But is it really? Now let’s zoom out. Let’s talk about real estate.  The Parallel That Hits Home You’ve worked hard. You’ve saved. You’re ready to enter the property market, maybe to buy your first home, invest in a rental, or secure a family legacy. But then comes the decision: Do I hire a registered agent or go it alone? You tell yourself, “Agents are too expensive.” So, you find someone who’s cheaper. Someone who says all the right things. Someone who feels like a shortcut. That’s your $2 case. ⚠️ What ...

New beginnings are scary. They’re thrilling, yes, but they also ask us to close chapters we once thought were permanent. They demand courage, not just to start, but to let go. And letting go isn’t always dramatic; it’s often quiet, personal, and deeply emotional. For me, writing has always been a passion. It’s how I process, persuade, and connect. It’s the thread that’s stitched meaning into my work, my relationships, and my reflections. That’s not ending. But something new is beginning. I’m adding a voice to the page, a literal one. We’re starting a podcast. Now, almost anyone can start one. That’s true. But here’s my argument: my worldview isn’t a carbon copy of the next person’s. It’s shaped by stories, scars, and strategies that deserve to be heard. I’ve spent years negotiating, storytelling, and listening. And if I can share what I know, and my partner brings their own lens to the table, I believe we’ll find an audience that resonates. Still, it’s scary. It feels like we’re steppi...

Weep not for roads untraveled, nor for the one that got away. These words often echo in the quiet corners of our minds, moments of reflection on paths not taken, chances missed, or dreams deferred. In today’s fast-evolving world, many liken new opportunities like AI to the cryptocurrency wave of years past. The comparison is apt: both arrived cloaked in uncertainty, promising transformation but demanding courage. But what prompts us to reflect on missed opportunities? A well-read colleague once quoted Shakespeare to me: “Things without all remedy should be without regard.” It struck me. Perhaps the real tragedy isn’t the missed opportunity, but the paralysis that precedes it, the fear of the unknown that keeps us from leaping. When opportunity does arrive, it rarely wears a name tag. It often feels like a disaster waiting to happen. I know this firsthand. I took a leap of faith into real estate with no backup plan. No safety net. No guarantees. And I’m not here to tell you ...

In the world of real estate, the “sold” sign is often treated as the final punctuation mark in a successful transaction. The ink dries, the keys change hands, and we move on to the next listing. But in our rush to celebrate closure, we risk overlooking the most vital part of the process, the echo that follows the sale. That echo is feedback. Feedback is not a courtesy. It is the compass by which we navigate improvement. It is the mirror that reflects not just what we did, but how it was received. Like a finely crafted watch, our service is made up of many moving parts: negotiation, presentation, empathy, and timing. Remove even one cog, however small, and the entire mechanism falters. Feedback is that cog. Without it, we operate blind, assuming that silence equals satisfaction. In my experience, feedback is the lifeblood of excellence. It’s how we evolve from being transactional agents to transformational advisors. It’s how we move from selling properties to building legacies. And ye...

Every morning, the alarm rings. We rise, dress, and step into the rhythm of routine. But beneath the surface of this daily choreography lies a deeper question—one we rarely ask aloud: Why do I go to work? Why do I do what I do? Some answer quickly: “I work for my family.” “I must provide for those who depend on me.” These are noble truths—anchors of responsibility and love. Others say, “I love what I do.” But let us be honest: that answer is rare. And yet, it is the one that transforms obligation into inspiration. So how do we get there? How do we move from  must  to  meaning ? It’s Not Just About the Money We’ve all seen it people earning well, yet feeling hollow. And others earning modestly, yet radiating joy. Clearly, fulfillment isn’t found in the paycheck alone. It’s found in  mastery , in becoming good at what you do.  The Power of Progress Think back to a time you tried something unfamiliar. It was awkward. Frustrating. You weren’t p...

Yesterday, I played golf. Not just a casual round, I played my first full 18 holes. And somewhere around hole 9, I was ready to quit. The sun was relentless. My swing was inconsistent. My energy was fading. I looked at the remaining holes and thought, “Why am I doing this?” But then something unexpected happened: I didn’t quit. Not because the course got easier. It didn’t. Not because I suddenly became Tiger Woods. I didn’t. I kept going because of the people around me. Fellow colleagues, each with their own goals and frustrations, offered encouragement when my spirit dipped. A fist bump after a decent drive. A laugh after a disastrous putt. A shared nod of “we’ve got this” when the fairway felt endless. Their support turned a solo struggle into a shared journey.  The Psychology of Perseverance Golf is often described as a mental game, and it truly is. Every hole is a fresh challenge. Every swing demands focus. Every mistake lingers longer than it should. But what I l...

We often talk about homes in square meters, coordinates, or market value. But when someone whispers “I just need a place to rest”,  they’re not asking for a roof; they’re asking for sanctuary. A home is more than bricks, beams, and boundary walls. It’s the place where your spirit exhales. Where your guard drops, and you don’t have to rehearse your presence. A true home isn’t bought. It’s found.   What Does “Rest” Really Mean in the Property World? In the whirlwind of open houses, brochures, and budget calculations, rest often gets lost in the noise. But it’s quietly at the center of every search. Rest is emotional real estate. It’s the ability to feel safe, inspired, and accepted without performing. Rest is legacy-minded. It’s the place that holds your stories, your laughter, your scars, all without judgment. Rest is location-agnostic. Whether nestled in the quiet of Borrowdale or perched above the hills of Glen Lorne, rest isn...

"Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life." It’s a quote that drips with optimism. It decorates motivational posters, graduation speeches, and LinkedIn bios. But in truth? It’s more poetic than practical and potentially misleading.  Passion Doesn’t Cancel the Grind Loving your craft doesn’t eliminate stress, deadlines, or the mental load that comes with responsibility. Work. Even meaningful work requires energy, discipline, and resilience. Whether you're negotiating the sale of a million-dollar estate or crafting a blog post that moves hearts, there’s labour behind the magic. Creative work demands emotional energy, and that's still labour. Passion can fuel burnout if boundaries aren’t in place. Not every task is thrilling -  admin, client disputes, rejection emails. Still part of the game.  The Psychology Behind the Fallacy This idea that passion nullifies effort is often weaponised against people who struggle...

There’s a moment in every high-stakes property negotiation that hangs in the air like a final heartbeat before a decision - when the buyer’s eyes widen, their silence stretches, and something shifts. It’s not always logic. Often, it’s emotion dressed in prestige. That’s where the real deal closes - not on paper, but in the mind.  The Inner Tug-of-War: Scarcity v Patience Buyers of high-value properties are rarely rushed - yet they’re acutely aware of what it means to miss out. That’s the paradox. A seasoned investor may linger, calculating, while a first-time luxury seeker may hesitate out of awe. Both are vulnerable to a well-orchestrated moment of scarcity. When you say, “We have two other inquiries from corporate buyers,” it’s no longer just about square meters. It’s a race against the invisible. “Urgency isn’t a pressure tactic - it’s a psychological mirror. The buyer sees themselves losing before they even picture themselves owning .” Status, Ego, and the Drea...

Imagine you're standing at the edge of a diving board, toes curled over the ledge, water shimmering below. You know it’s deep enough. You know you can swim. But you still pause. Just for a second. And sometimes, that pause stretches into forever. Welcome to the psychology of hesitation in real estate. In my time navigating Zimbabwe’s high-value property landscape, I’ve met moguls-in-the-making who talk themselves out of million-dollar momentum… all because of the quiet voice that says, “What if it goes wrong?” Ironically, they rarely ask, “What if it goes right?” The Mirage of Certainty Hesitation often wears the mask of wisdom. “Let’s wait for inflation to stabilize.” “The market feels jittery.” “Maybe another option will come up.” These are valid concerns - until they become chronic. Real estate, like jazz, is an improvisational art. You don’t always get sheet music. You get a rhythm, a feeling, a window - and when it opens, the bold move fast. “Perfect conditions ra...

When people think of real estate tools, they picture glossy brochures, legal documents, valuation calculators, or maybe even a convincing sales pitch. But the humble calendar? That’s the unsung hero of every successful deal I’ve ever seen. Timing is everything, and in real estate, it can be the difference between a profit and a regret. 1. Listing at the Right Moment In Zimbabwe, many property buyers and sellers overlook seasonal trends. The months leading up to the end of the year often see a surge in activity - people want to start fresh come January. Likewise, listing just before major public holidays or school terms ending? It’s like putting a house in the spotlight. 2. The Construction Clock Builders will tell you: rainy season delays are no joke. Poor planning means watching timelines and budgets wash away - literally. Scheduling builds and renovations with weather patterns in mind can be the ultimate money saver. 3. Timing the Market While trying to “time the market” perf...

Have you ever taken a leap toward a long-held dream? One that gave you the chance - not to arrive but to imagine, to touch, and to begin building something meaningful. That was me three months ago. I transitioned into real estate full-time, guided by purpose and powered by the unknown. And now, three months in, it feels like the right moment to pause - not to look back with certainty, but to reflect with honesty. Here’s what I’ve learned so far. Lesson One: Due Diligence is Everything Buying or selling property isn’t a transaction - it’s a story. And every story starts with the truth behind the land. If you’re marketing land, know it like the back of your hand. Don’t just memorize the size or price. Understand the title, zoning, infrastructure potential, access routes, history, and vision. Leave your potential buyers not with uncertainty - but with dreams. Dream homes. Dream investments. Dream futures. That's how you sell land, not just show it.  Lesson Two: Y...

You watched the skit. You laughed. Maybe you even thought, “That could never be me.” But let’s take a moment to unpack what really happened - because comedy, as always, is rooted in truth. 🎭 The Skit in Review In this week's episode, a buyer walks into a viewing with a lot of energy and no preparation. He’s asking for a discount on a house he hasn't even seen the inside of . He wants to “just talk to the owner directly” and ends up walking away confused when another buyer swoops in and makes a clean offer. Funny? Absolutely. Real? Unfortunately, very.  What’s Really Going On Let’s break it down: Mistake #1: No Financial Prequalification Walking into a viewing without understanding your budget is like window-shopping with monopoly money. Sellers respond to seriousness - have your pre-approval, or at least a clear figure in mind. Mistake #2: Trying to Skip the Agent Trying to "go direct to the seller" might seem like a shortcut, but in Zimbabwe...

“Greatness” is a term that gets thrown around easily. We hear it in sports - the GOAT debates, the trophies, the stats. But greatness is never just about highlights; it's about legacy, consistency, and impact long after the final whistle. The same applies in real estate. So, how do you define a great property in Zimbabwe? Is it a Borrowdale Brooke mansion with Italian tiles and infinity pools? Or a Westgate commercial plot that's tripled in value in four years? The truth is, greatness is relative - but it’s never random.  1. Great Properties Solve a Long-Term Problem A great property serves a purpose beyond the now. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or agricultural - it meets a deep and sustainable need. Think of that solid Greendale family home: close to schools, has water, and isn’t affected by load-shedding. Not flashy, but functional - and always in demand.  2. Location Isn’t Everything - But It’s Close Yes, we know: location, location, lo...

Chess and real estate may seem like distant worlds - one played on a 64-square board, the other navigated through plots, paperwork, and negotiations. But every now and then, the two intersect in ways that surprise me. This week, while playing a slow-burn game in the Caro-Kann Defense, I was reminded of a powerful real estate principle:  Patience is not passive - it's calculated positioning . ♟ The Caro-Kann Setup: A Mirror to Strategy In my ongoing match (yes, still "unterminated" as I write this), I was playing Black and chose the Caro-Kann - a solid, defensive opening that trades early aggression for long-term structure. It’s not flashy, but it’s reliable. After 17 moves, I found myself slightly behind in development, but holding a solid structure. My opponent had more space, more activity, but also more potential weaknesses. The urge to react aggressively was strong, but I knew better.  Sometimes, you have to let your opponent overcommit and strike with precision late...

In the world of real estate, one truth stands tall: your network is your net worth. For many in Zimbabwe’s property market, this isn’t just a catchy phrase - it’s a business principle. Deals often close not just because of listings or social media ads, but because of relationships. In our local context, where trust, referrals, and personal recommendations carry weight, your success as a realtor hinges on who knows you, and what they say about you. The Real Power of Networking in Real Estate Networking is more than exchanging business cards or attending events. It’s about building trust, creating value, and staying top of mind. In Zimbabwe, where property buyers and sellers often rely on trusted referrals, being part of someone’s trusted circle can give you access to opportunities others don’t see. You can have the best listings or the strongest marketing campaigns, but if your name doesn’t come up in conversations among serious buyers or investors, you're likely missing out....