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Southlea Park, a vibrant neighbourhood located in Harare, Zimbabwe, has been buzzing with activity as it undergoes significant changes and developments. Known for its residential appeal and growing infrastructure, Southlea Park is becoming an increasingly attractive location for families and investors alike. Here’s a look at what’s currently happening in Southlea Park and what makes this area stand out.
Title Deeds on the Horizon
A major development in Southlea Park is the anticipated issuance of title deeds for residents. Recent efforts have seen approximately 6,700 out of 9,000 residential stand owners submit their details to the Surveyor-General’s office. This step is crucial for obtaining dispensation certificates, which are prerequisites for the coveted title deeds under the Presidential Title Deeds Programme.
The government aims to issue 1.5 million title deeds nationwide by the end of the year as part of its plan to regularise informal settlements and improve housing provision. Title deeds offer official proof of property ownership, security of tenure, and access to financial opportunities. For Southlea Park, this development could be transformative, attracting investors and enhancing the local real estate market.
Government’s Initiative
The title deeds initiative aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader vision of achieving upper middle-income status by 2030. Title deeds provide numerous benefits, including security of tenure and potential financial opportunities, which are particularly valuable in areas like Southlea Park that have previously faced legal uncertainties.
Role of the Order Housing Consortium
The Order Housing Consortium, comprising 56 companies from both public and private sectors, is instrumental in this process. They are working to mobilise residents, update registration details, and address various issues such as outdated information. Their efforts are crucial for ensuring that all eligible residents receive their title deeds.
Infrastructure and Development
In addition to the title deeds, the consortium is focusing on infrastructure improvements. Collaborations with consulting engineers are underway to finalise plans for water and sewer systems, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. This holistic approach to development aims to create a more sustainable and well-planned community.
Broader Initiative
The Southlea Park project is part of a national effort that includes other areas such as Epworth and Chitungwiza. The government’s policy stipulates that title deeds will only be issued for serviced stands, which has led to some confusion. For instance, there was a previous instance where residents received “deeds of grant” rather than full title deeds.
Real Estate Overview
The real estate market in Southlea Park has seen significant activity recently. Current rental prices for residential properties in the area are as follows:
- Two-Bedroom House: Rentals for a two-bedroom house typically range between $400 to $600 per month, depending on the property’s condition and amenities.
- Three-Bedroom House: For a three-bedroom house, rental prices generally fall between $600 to $900 per month.
For those looking to purchase property in Southlea Park, the prices are equally diverse:
- Two-Bedroom House: Purchase prices for a two-bedroom house range from $50,000 to $80,000, with variations based on location and property features.
- Three-Bedroom House: Buying a three-bedroom house in Southlea Park usually costs between $80,000 to $120,000.
These prices reflect the increasing desirability of the area as it undergoes development and infrastructure improvements.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the process of obtaining title deeds has faced challenges, including the distinction between “deeds of grant” and full title deeds, the overall mood in Southlea Park remains optimistic. The ongoing program presents opportunities for potential homebuyers and investors, though careful due diligence is essential due to the complexities involved.
Southlea Park is undergoing a dynamic transformation marked by significant residential and commercial developments, including the anticipated issuance of title deeds. This progress, along with improvements in infrastructure and community initiatives, offers an increasingly attractive environment for residents and investors. As Zimbabwe continues its efforts to regularise informal settlements and enhance housing provision, Southlea Park stands out as a promising example of positive change in the real estate sector.
