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Selling property in Zimbabwe requires careful planning and preparation to avoid delays and complications that could derail the process. While sellers are not required to provide copies of approved building plans to prospective buyers, it is the buyer's right to request them. In the Zimbabwean context, obtaining the necessary building plans can sometimes be challenging unless the seller provides them upfront. As a result, buyers often include a clause in their offer to purchase (OTP) requesting these documents.
The Value of Approved Plans When Selling Property
Ensuring that you have approved building plans before starting the property selling process is essential.It assures prospective buyers that what they see is what they are getting. It also helps to prevent issues from arising during the sale process, which could potentially halt the transaction before it is finalized.
All homeowners in Zimbabwe should keep a copy of their approved building plans. If these are unavailable,homeowners can typically acquire the plans from their local municipality. However, in some cases, municipalities may not have the necessary records, such as in cases of lost documents or buildings that were constructed many years ago without formal approval. In these instances, it becomes the responsibility of the homeowner to submit new plans for approval.
What Happens When There Are Building Changes?
If building plans from the municipality do not match the current state of the property, it may be necessary to submit updated plans for approval. Major structural changes, such as adding extra rooms or changing the layout of the home, require municipal approval before they can be considered legal. Minor alterations, such as building a garden shed under 5m² or replacing the roof with similar materials, usually do not require official approval.
For significant structural alterations, homeowners should be aware that the municipality may either reject the plans or impose penalties if they are found to be in breach of building regulations.This is why many buyers will insist that the seller provides up-to-date approved plans before they sign an OTPs.
Tips for Sellers to Avoid Delays
For sellers trying to avoid complications during the property sale process, it's advisable to take proactive steps in preparing their property.These steps are crucial in preventing delays, especially after the sale has been confirmed but before transfer.
1. Have Approved Building Plans Ready
If you've made any structural changes to your home, such as adding a room or altering the kitchen, ensure that you have all the necessary permits and approved house plans available. Buyers in Zimbabwe are likely to request these documents to verify that the work was done correctly and legally. Acquiring municipal approval for new plans can take time, so it is advisable to have them ready before listing the property.
2. Obtain Compliance Certificates
Sellers are legally required to ensure their property is in good condition for transfer. Before the sale can go through, certain compliance certificates must be submitted to the transferring attorney. These may include certificates for electrical compliance, gas installations, plumbing, and more. The process of acquiring these certificates can be straightforward, but sellers should address any issues beforehand to avoid delays.
3. Complete Necessary Repairs and Inspections
Before listing the property, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection and address any maintenance issues. Unresolved repairs could become deal-breakers during negotiations, so it’s best to proactively tackle these problems to facilitate a smooth sale.
4. Organize Financial Documentation
Sellers should have all necessary financial documentation ready, including proof of any outstanding debts or liens on the property. If there are any issues in this area, they should be resolved before listing the property to avoid delays.
5. Price Your Property Competitively
Pricing your property correctly is crucial. Overpricing can lead to the property sitting on the market for an extended period, causing frustration for both the seller and potential buyers. Work with an experienced real estate agent to determine a competitive listing price based on market conditions and comparable sales in your area.
6. Declutter and Stage Your Property
A cluttered property can turn off potential buyers. Sellers should invest time in decluttering and staging the property to present it in the best possible light. A well-presented home will attract more buyers and may even result in a higher sale price.
7. Be Flexible with Showings and Negotiations
Flexibility is key when scheduling property showings and negotiating with potential buyers. Being open to reasonable requests and compromises can help maintain the momentum of the sale and ensure a timely closing.
8. Secure a Qualified Real Estate Agent
Choosing the right real estate agent is vital for a successful sale. A knowledgeable and experienced agent can help sellers navigate the selling process, ensure proper paperwork is in place, and address any challenges that arise.
9. Anticipate Buyer Contingencies
Buyers often include contingencies in their offers, such as the completion of home inspections, appraisals, or the approval of financing. Sellers should be prepared to accommodate these contingencies and ensure the property is in good condition to pass inspections.
10. Be Ready to Negotiate Repairs
After the inspection, buyers may request repairs or price reductions. Sellers should be prepared to negotiate these requests and handle them promptly to keep the deal on track.
Conclusion
Selling property in Zimbabwe requires careful attention to legal requirements, including ensuring that approved plans and necessary certificates are in place. By taking these proactive steps and working with an experienced real estate agent, sellers can avoid delays, meet buyer expectations, and ensure a smooth transfer of ownership. Whether you're a first-time seller or a seasoned property investor, following these steps will help you navigate the complexities of selling property in Zimbabwe and achieve a successful sale.
