ZimReal 2024 Bigger and Better Than Ever Before

The Zimbabwean real estate sector converged at Golden Conifer in Harare on 28 August 2024 for the highly anticipated ZimReal 2024 conference. This year’s event, aptly themed “Driving Zimbabwe’s Real Estate Sector Forward,” proved to be the biggest and most impactful yet, drawing a record number of attendees and showcasing the dynamism and resilience of the industry.

WestProp Leads the Charge

WestProp Holdings, a leading name in Zimbabwe’s property development landscape, took center stage as the lead sponsor of ZimReal 2024. This strategic partnership underscores WestProp’s commitment to fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and shaping the future of the real estate sector in Zimbabwe.

The Hills: A New Era of Luxury Living

One of the most talked-about projects at ZimReal 2024 was WestProp’s ambitious development, The Hills Lifestyle Estate. This premier gated community, nestled in the heart of Harare, promises a unique blend of luxury living, world-class amenities, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

The Hills is set to become the first development in Africa to feature branded residences affiliated with a five-star hotel, further elevating its appeal to discerning investors and homeowners. This groundbreaking project, as detailed on PropertyBook’s blog, highlights the growing trend of secure and exclusive residential estates in Harare. WestProp CEO Kenneth Sharpe emphasized the company’s commitment to creating gated communities that go beyond basic security measures, incorporating shopping malls, office spaces, clubhouses, and recreational facilities to offer residents a truly holistic living experience.

Property Portals Take Center Stage: PropertyBook’s Perspective

The rise of property portals like PropertyBook was a key talking point at ZimReal 2024. As the real estate market becomes increasingly complex, these platforms provide invaluable resources for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. Unlike informal online marketplaces, property portals offer a curated and reliable platform where users can access verified listings, market insights, and expert advice.

PropertyBook, a proud participant in ZimReal 2024, showcased its platform and shared valuable insights during a well-received presentation. PropertyBook showed that continued success hinges on commitment to providing accurate, up-to-date information and user-friendly tools that empower users to make informed decisions. ZimReal 2024 provided an excellent opportunity to connect with industry peers, gather feedback, and demonstrate our dedication to driving transparency and efficiency in the Zimbabwean real estate market.

Key Takeaways from Industry Leaders

ZimReal 2024 featured a distinguished lineup of speakers and panelists who shared their expertise and insights on a wide range of topics. Some of the key takeaways included:

 Economic Outlook and Investment Climate: Experts like Kudzie Sharara, Investments Analyst and Deputy Editor of Business Weekly Zimbabwe, provided an optimistic outlook for the Zimbabwean economy, highlighting the real estate sector’s potential for growth and attracting investment.

Pension Fund Investment in Real Estate: A panel discussion moderated by Welcome Mavingire, Managing Consultant at Intellego Investment Consultants (Pvt) Ltd, explored the role of pension funds in driving real estate development and the importance of rebuilding market trust to attract these substantial investors.

The Rise of REITs: Kura Chihota, Regional Real Estate Manager at exp Realty, moderated a panel discussion on the emergence of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in Zimbabwe, exploring the opportunities and challenges they present for investors and developers.

Infrastructure Development and Urban Renewal: The impact of new infrastructure projects on property values and the potential for urban renewal initiatives were hot topics, with industry leaders like Marilyn Mosha, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at WestProp Holdings, leading the conversation.

The Importance of ZimReal

ZimReal has cemented its position as the premier real estate event in Zimbabwe, offering a unique platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and deal-making. The conference’s growing popularity is a testament to the industry’s dynamism and the increasing appetite for investment in Zimbabwe’s real estate sector.

Looking Ahead

ZimReal 2024 concluded on a high note, leaving attendees energized and optimistic about the future of Zimbabwe’s real estate market. As the industry continues to evolve, events like ZimReal will play a crucial role in fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and unlocking the full potential of this vital sector. PropertyBook remains committed to supporting the growth of the Zimbabwean real estate market and empowering our users with the tools and information they need to make informed decisions.