The cost of a sofa, beds, wardrobes, and kitchen appliances can easily swallow your savings in one gulp. Add the stress of coordinating movers across Harare's busy streets, and suddenly that empty flat doesn't seem so appealing anymore. That's exactly why many savvy Zimbabweans are bypassing these headaches entirely by choosing furnished properties instead.
Whether you're a student in Harare looking for your first flat, a professional relocating for work, or a landlord wanting to maximize your property's appeal, this guide has you covered. In 2025, with the rental market evolving rapidly, understanding the ins and outs of furnished properties has never been more important.
As Zimbabwe's leading real estate website with over 8,000 properties listed nationwide, Propertybook has the inside track on what makes the furnished rental market tick. Our data shows that furnished properties are commanding significant interest, particularly in urban centers like Harare.
Let's unpack everything you need to know about renting or letting a fully furnished property in Zimbabwe.
What Exactly is a "Furnished" Rental?
Before diving into lease agreements and security deposits, let's get clear on what "furnished" actually means in Zimbabwe's rental market.
A fully furnished property comes complete with all the essential furniture and appliances you need to move in right away. Think of it as a "ready-to-live" solution where you bring your personal belongings and little else.
Standard Items in a Fully Furnished Property:
- Living Room: Sofa, coffee table, TV stand, curtains, sometimes a TV
- Bedroom: Bed, mattress, wardrobe, bedside table, curtains
- Kitchen: Refrigerator, stove, microwave, basic cookware, dishes and utensils
- Dining Area: Table and chairs
- Bathroom: Shower curtain, sometimes bath mats
Partially Furnished vs. Fully Equipped
In Zimbabwe, you'll often see listings using various terms. Here's what they typically mean:
- Fully Furnished: Contains all furniture and major appliances
- Partially Furnished: Has some furniture but not a complete set
- Fully Equipped: Furnished plus small appliances, kitchenware, linens, and possibly some décor items
Always check the inventory list. What one landlord considers 'fully furnished' might be just 'partially furnished' to another.
The Pros and Cons of Choosing a Furnished Rental
Advantages for Tenants:
- Reduced Upfront Costs: No need to buy furniture and appliances
- Easy Relocation: Perfect for those on short-term assignments or students
- Quick Setup: Move in and feel at home almost immediately
- Lower Transport Costs: No need to hire movers for heavy furniture
- Try Before You Buy: Experience living with different styles before investing in your own furniture
Disadvantages for Tenants:
- Higher Monthly Rent: Expect to pay 15-25% more than unfurnished properties
- Limited Personalization: You'll live with someone else's style choices
- Greater Responsibility: More items that could be damaged and deducted from your deposit
- Inventory Concerns: Disputes over the condition of furniture can arise when moving out
Advantages for Landlords:
- Higher Rental Income: PropertyBook data shows furnished properties command 15-25% higher rents
- Broader Tenant Appeal: Attractive to expatriates, students, and young professionals
- Potential Tax Benefits: Furniture depreciation may be tax-deductible (consult your accountant)
- Faster Occupancy: Furnished properties typically rent 30% faster than unfurnished ones
Disadvantages for Landlords:
- Higher Initial Investment: Furnishing a property requires significant upfront costs
- Maintenance Responsibilities: More items that could break or need replacement
- Style Considerations: Your taste might not appeal to all tenants
- Inventory Management: Need for detailed documentation and regular checks
Financial Insights: Understanding the Costs
Before you sign that lease agreement, let's talk money. Furnished rentals have different financial implications than their unfurnished counterparts.
Typical Price Ranges for Furnished Rentals (Monthly):
- Studio/1-bedroom: $200-$500
- 2-bedroom cottages: Starting from $150
- 3-bedroom homes: $450-$2,000
- 4-bedroom properties: $300-$7,000
- Luxury houses: $4,500+
These figures vary significantly based on location, quality of furnishings, and property condition. PropertyBook's market data shows that Harare's furnished rental market has average property values of $310,000, with a more realistic median of $140,000.
Hidden Costs to Consider:
- Security Deposits: Typically higher for furnished properties (often two months' rent)
- Insurance: Consider contents insurance for your personal belongings
- Inventory Checkout Fees: Some landlords charge for final inventory checks
- Cleaning Fees: Professional cleaning may be required when moving out
Always budget for the security deposit. With furnished properties, landlords are protecting more valuable assets and will want greater financial security.
Find affordable furnished rentals on PropertyBook today
The Rental Process: From Search to Signature
Finding and securing the right furnished property involves several key steps. Here's how to navigate the process smoothly:
Step 1: Define Your Needs
Before browsing listings, clarify:
- Your budget (including utilities and other expenses)
- Required amenities (WiFi, security system, backup power)
- Location preferences (proximity to work, schools, shops)
- Lease duration (short-term vs. long-term)
- Must-have furnishings (specific appliances or furniture)
Step 2: Property Search
- Browse PropertyBook's extensive listings of furnished properties
- Use filters to narrow down options (price range, number of bedrooms, location)
- Read descriptions carefully for furniture inventory details
- Check photos to assess furnishing quality and style
- Look for properties with backup power solutions (generators or solar) given Zimbabwe's electricity challenges
Step 3: Property Viewing
During viewings, be sure to:
- Test all appliances to ensure they work
- Check furniture for damage or wear
- Confirm water pressure and reliability
- Verify security features (gates, alarms, secure windows)
- Ask about backup power and water systems
- Take photos for your records
Step 4: Application and Screening
Prepare these documents in advance:
- Proof of income or employment
- References from previous landlords
- Identification documents
- Bank statements (typically 3 months)
Step 5: Lease Agreement and Inventory Check
Before signing:
- Read the entire lease agreement carefully
- Pay special attention to furniture inventory lists
- Document the condition of all furnishings (photos are essential)
- Clarify responsibilities for repairs and maintenance
- Understand the security deposit terms and return conditions
Legal Considerations: Know Your Rights
Understanding the legal framework will help protect both tenants and landlords in furnished rental arrangements.
Tenant Rights in Zimbabwe:
- Right to a habitable property with working utilities
- Right to privacy and peaceful enjoyment
- Right to have repairs done in a timely manner
- Right to the return of your security deposit (minus legitimate deductions)
- Right to proper notice before landlord visits
Landlord Obligations:
- Provide a safe, clean, and habitable property
- Ensure all furnishings are in good working order
- Make necessary repairs promptly
- Give proper notice before entering the property
- Return security deposits within a reasonable timeframe
Essential Lease Agreement Components:
- Detailed inventory of all furnishings and their condition
- Clear terms on maintenance responsibilities
- Rules regarding alterations or additions to furnishings
- Utilities payment arrangements
- Procedure for reporting damages or necessary repairs
- Terms for security deposit return
Never sign a lease without a comprehensive inventory list. It's your best protection against unfair deductions from your security deposit.
Managing Your Furnished Rental: Tips for Success
Advice for Tenants:
- Document Everything: Take dated photos of all furnishings on move-in day
- Report Issues Promptly: Notify your landlord immediately about any problems
- Respect the Property: Treat furnishings with care to avoid deposit deductions
- Check Insurance Coverage: Your belongings may not be covered by the landlord's policy
- Understand Maintenance Responsibilities: Know what you're responsible for fixing
Advice for Landlords:
- Choose Durable Furnishings: Invest in quality items that can withstand multiple tenants
- Create Detailed Inventory: Document everything with photos and descriptions
- Set Clear Policies: Establish maintenance procedures and responsibilities
- Regular Inspections: Schedule periodic checks (with proper notice)
- Update and Refresh: Plan for furniture replacement and updates
Successful landlords treat furnishings as investments. Quality items may cost more initially but save money in the long run through fewer replacements and happier tenants.
Dispute Resolution: When Things Go Wrong
Even with careful planning, disputes can arise. Here's how to handle common issues:
Common Disputes in Furnished Rentals:
- Disagreements over furniture condition at move-out
- Maintenance responsibilities for appliances
- Normal wear and tear versus damage
- Missing inventory items
- Security deposit deductions
Resolution Strategies:
- Direct Communication: Always start by discussing the issue calmly
- Reference Documentation: Use your inventory list and photos as evidence
- Mediation: Consider a neutral third party to help resolve differences
- Small Claims Court: For disputes under a certain amount
- Legal Representation: For larger disputes or complex cases
Documentation is your best friend in disputes. Those move-in photos and signed inventory lists can be the difference between a quick resolution and a lengthy battle.
Where to Find the Best Furnished Rentals in Zimbabwe
While furnished properties are available throughout Zimbabwe, certain areas have particularly strong offerings:
Top Locations in Harare:
- Highlands: Upscale furnished homes with extensive amenities
- Borrowdale: Luxury furnished options with excellent security
- Greendale: Mid-range furnished apartments with good value
- Avondale: Popular with expatriates and professionals
- Mount Pleasant: Furnished options near the university
What to Look for in Prime Locations:
- Proximity to shopping centers like Food Lover's Market Greendale
- Reliable water supply or borehole access
- Backup power solutions (solar is increasingly common)
- Security features (gated communities, alarm systems)
- Good internet connectivity
Location isn't just about prestige. In Zimbabwe, it's about practical considerations like water reliability, power stability, and security.
Search furnished properties in Harare's top neighbourhoods
The Future of Furnished Rentals in Zimbabwe
The furnished rental market in Zimbabwe continues to evolve. Here are the trends we're seeing:
Current Market Trends:
- Growing Demand: Increased interest in flexible, ready-to-move-in solutions
- Better Quality: Rising standards in furnishings quality
- Tech Integration: More properties with smart home features
- Sustainability Focus: Eco-friendly appliances and solar power
- Flexible Leases: Shorter terms and more negotiable conditions
Who's Renting Furnished Properties?
- Young professionals starting their careers
- Expatriates on short-term assignments
- Returning diaspora testing the waters before full relocation
- Students seeking convenient housing solutions
- Transitional housing during home construction
Final Thoughts: Is a Furnished Rental Right for You?
Choosing a furnished rental depends on your specific circumstances. Consider these factors:
- Timeline: Shorter stays (less than 2 years) often justify the premium
- Budget: Can you afford the higher monthly rent?
- Lifestyle: Do you value convenience over personalization?
- Future Plans: Are you likely to relocate again soon?
- Personal Taste: Can you live with someone else's style choices?
For landlords, the decision to furnish depends on:
- Target Market: Who are your ideal tenants?
- Investment Capability: Can you afford quality furnishings upfront?
- Management Capacity: Can you handle the additional maintenance?
- Location Expectations: What's standard in your area?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Furnished rentals serve specific needs and lifestyles. The key is understanding if they align with yours.
At Propertybook, we're committed to helping you find the perfect rental solution, whether furnished or unfurnished. Our extensive listings and expert advice make your property journey smoother and more successful.
For the latest furnished rental listings across Zimbabwe, visit www.propertybook.co.zw or join our Harare Rentals Facebook Group with over 30,000 members to stay updated on the latest opportunities.
Data and market insights last updated: April 2025; Photo credit: Max Vakhtbovycn on Pexels
