Change of Ownership Zimbabwe

How to transfer ownership of vehicles and property in Zimbabwe

Vehicle Change of Ownership

For a detailed guide on transferring vehicle ownership, see our vehicle registration page. Key points:

Documents Needed

  • Seller: Registration book, national ID, signed transfer form
  • Buyer: National ID, proof of purchase, valid fitness certificate, insurance

Process

  1. Both parties visit CVR or ZINARA
  2. Complete and sign transfer forms
  3. Pay the transfer fee
  4. New registration book issued in buyer's name

Property Change of Ownership

Process

Agreement of Sale

Buyer and seller sign an agreement of sale, ideally drafted by a lawyer.

Engage a Conveyancer

The buyer (or seller, as agreed) engages a registered conveyancer to handle the transfer.

Tax Clearances

The seller obtains capital gains tax clearance from ZIMRA. The buyer pays stamp duty (capital transfer tax).

Rates Clearance

All outstanding council rates must be paid and a rates clearance certificate obtained from the local council.

Lodge at Deeds Office

The conveyancer lodges the transfer documents at the Deeds Office.

New Title Deed Issued

The Deeds Office registers the transfer and issues a new title deed in the buyer's name.

Stamp Duty (Capital Transfer Tax)

Stamp duty is payable on property transfers. Key points:

  • The rate is a percentage of the property value
  • Set by ZIMRA
  • Must be paid before the transfer can be registered
  • First-time buyers may qualify for reduced rates — check with ZIMRA

Conveyancing Costs

Conveyancing fees are typically calculated as a percentage of the property value. In addition to the conveyancer's fee, expect to pay:

  • Deeds Office registration fees
  • Stamp duty (capital transfer tax)
  • Rates clearance
  • VAT on conveyancing fees

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I transfer vehicle ownership in Zimbabwe?
Both buyer and seller visit CVR or ZINARA with: vehicle registration book, national IDs, proof of sale, valid fitness certificate, and insurance. Complete the transfer forms and pay the transfer fee.
How do I transfer property ownership in Zimbabwe?
Engage a conveyancer (property lawyer). They will handle the agreement of sale, tax clearances, rates clearance, and submit documents to the Deeds Office for registration of the transfer.
What is stamp duty in Zimbabwe?
Stamp duty (capital transfer tax) is a tax paid on property transfers. The rate is a percentage of the property value set by ZIMRA. It must be paid before the transfer can be registered.

Need Transfer Documents?

Get sale agreements, transfer forms and property templates.

Visit ZimDocs.co.zw