8 reasons why women should be property owners

If you’re from Zimbabwe you’ve probably watched a movie titled “Neria” or at least heard the soundtrack by Oliver Mtukudzi. Let me give you a brief synopsis of the film. It concerns the struggles of a woman in a suburb of the capital, Harare, Warren Park, in Zimbabwe, when she is widowed after her husband is killed in an accident. Her husband’s older brother takes advantage of the death of his younger brother and uses the inheritance for self-benefit at the expense of Neria and her two children. This is one of the eight reasons why Zimbabwean women should become property owners.

You Will Get Nothing” Violations of Property and Inheritance Rights of Widows in Zimbabwe. 

1) Stability and Control

Owning your own home as a woman creates a sense of stability and control over your living environment. You can make modifications as desired, personalise the space, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is yours. If your husband was the breadwinner, you don’t have to worry about the landlord banging down your door. By owning your own home, you don’t have to hold your breath waiting for the other shoe to drop in the event you lose your spouse. Having lost my father, this was one of the things that people were talking about behind the scenes, which isn’t fair if you ask me because why is the wife’s property now the family’s? It’s essential that married couples get on the same page about legal paperwork and what the plan is in the eventuality of one of them passing away.

2) Investment Potential

Property can be a valuable investment, offering potential for rental income or appreciation in value over time. This can be particularly beneficial for retirement planning or wealth generation. Whether you choose to have long-term leases with your tenants or you opt to offer short-term accommodation, either way you are making passive income from an asset you invested in for years to come. People will always need shelter. If your property is located in the capital city or a tourism destination town, even better because it means a higher return on investment. In Harare, Zimbabwe, WestProp Holdings is selling the first ever ApartHotel which is part hotel, part apartment. This is ideal because it fuses together the best aspects of an apartment and a hotel.

3) Sense of Accomplishment

Owning property can be a significant life achievement, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment. It is a symbol of hard work, financial responsibility, and building a secure future. As an African child, most of us dream of building Mama a house. This is one of the ways we honour and give back to the birthgiver who raised us and made sacrifices for us to become the people we are today. It’s undeniable that buying or building a house is a huge, “Mama, I made it moment!”

4) Security and Independence

In some parts of Africa, women may face cultural norms that limit their property rights or financial independence. Owning property provides a safe and secure space they can control, offering a sense of security in case of marital issues, separation, or reliance on others. This means that a woman and her children don’t have to stress about housing.

5) Economic Empowerment

Property ownership allows women to participate more actively in the economy. Owning land can enable them to farm or build businesses, while owning a house can create rental income. This financial independence fosters self-reliance and challenges traditional gender roles. In the off chance of a financial issue, property owners can sell off their properties to live off the money. Owning property helps you to manoeuvre through financially tough times.

6)  Bargaining Position

Property ownership strengthens a woman’s bargaining position within the family and community. It demonstrates financial strength and provides leverage in negotiations, potentially leading to more respect and influence in decision-making. Even when it comes to getting loans, she can leverage her properties as collateral to get financial assistance or to get capital for a new business venture.

7) Legacy Building

Land ownership, especially, can be a powerful tool for legacy building in some African cultures. Owning property allows women to pass on wealth and security to future generations, ensuring their daughters and granddaughters have a strong foundation. In the African context, these homes are usually referred to as ‘family homes’ and are a source of family feuds. It is imperative that the owner of the home clearly stipulates how the home is to be governed and by whom.

8) Community Development

When women own property, they are more likely to invest in their communities. Studies have shown that women tend to prioritise education and well-being for their families, potentially leading to improvements in the surrounding areas.

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