In the burgeoning real estate sector of Zimbabwe, Oasis Realty stands tall, celebrating a remarkable 5-year journey.
Founded in 2019 by Lawrence Rimayi (Managing Director), the Estate Agents Council of Zimbabwe-registered company remains a key part of the growing property management sector in Zimbabwe.
Their expertise spans across all aspects of the real estate industry, making them a comprehensive solution for all property-related needs, including property sales, auctions, property rentals, property management, property development, town planning, and valuation advisory services.
Motivation to found the company:
Rimayi holds certifications in real estate, a university degree, and is currently studying for an MBA in Construction and Real Estate. His interest in the real estate business dates way back.
As a young boy, he helped his family by selling various wares, including vegetables, in Kuwadzana Township. After finishing high school, he seriously considered pursuing a career in real estate entrepreneurship.
“I grew up in an entrepreneurial environment. My mom was a cross-border trader, helping my dad fund our upkeep, including paying for our school fees. We would also join my mom on errands selling her products, and that’s how I came to have a foundation in entrepreneurship,” said Rimayi.
Vision of the company:
The story of Oasis Realty began with a vision; to transform the Zimbabwean real estate experience by offering unparalleled service, transparency, and expertise.
With a team of passionate and dedicated individuals, the company embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between dream homes, commercial and industrial properties, and reality for their ever-grateful clients.
Over the past decade, the company has witnessed the ebb and flow of the Zimbabwean market, adapting and innovating to remain at the forefront of the industry.
They have weathered economic fluctuations, navigated competition hurdles, and embraced technological advancements, all while staying true to their core values.
Prime office location:
The selection of the office premises was thoughtfully done to cater to the preferences of high-end clients, who prefer a serene and upmarket environment.
They wanted to ensure that clients felt comfortable and at ease when visiting the office, thereby enhancing the appeal of the brand.
“Because we are selling a premium product, you need to look or present the part so that clients can trust you with their valuable assets,” Rimayi said.
Success and milestones:
An incredible journey of growth has been experienced over the past five years, transforming from an obscure company into a well-established brand.
While the company’s success can be attributed to various factors, it is important to acknowledge the hard work, dedication of the team behind it, and divine intervention.
“Of course, there’s an element of us doing something different from the beginning, but to a greater extent, it’s all by the grace of God,” Rimayi explains.
Furthermore, success has been achieved through a strong dedication to professionalism, integrity, and consistently exceeding client expectations. The managing director has valuable experience, having worked for CB Richard Ellis, Property Shop, and Pinnacle Properties, among others.
Since its inception with a mere three properties, the Oasis Realty portfolio has experienced exponential growth, now boasting an impressive collection of over 150 properties spanning residential, commercial, and industrial segments.
Renowned for their exceptional quality, the majority of these properties are strategically situated in the northern suburbs of Harare, catering to both local residents and the diaspora.
“Zimbabweans at home, in the diaspora, and others keep entrusting us with their assets to look after them. It’s very difficult to gain the trust of people who are in the diaspora. We are trustworthy because we do things diligently. Also, our spirit of excellence has allowed people to give us the opportunity to look after their assets,” he said.
Another pointer to the company’s success is an increase in the number of properties for sale listed on their web page in recent years.
Oasis Realty’s anniversary is not just about celebrating a number five. It’s about recognizing the milestones achieved, the lives transformed, and the dreams realized. It’s a testament to the dedication of their team, the trust of their clients, and their unwavering belief in the potential of the Zimbabwean real estate market.
Milestones include starting out with a staff complement of three people, which has since grown to 14 employees.
The office space has also improved significantly, from occupying a renovated garage to an entire building with several spacious offices.
Legacy:
Client-Centric Approach: At the heart of Oasis Realty’s success lies their unwavering focus on the client. From the initial consultation to the final handover of keys, they prioritize understanding individual needs and exceeding expectations. Their personalized approach and open communication have fostered a culture of trust and loyalty amongst their clientele.
Diverse Portfolio: Recognizing the dynamic nature of the market, they boast a diverse portfolio catering to a wide range of needs and budgets. From sprawling residential properties to sleek commercial spaces, they offer a comprehensive selection of properties across Harare and its environs.
Market Expertise: The Oasis Realty team possesses an in-depth understanding of the Zimbabwean real estate market. Their finger remains on the pulse of current trends, legal nuances, and investment opportunities, ensuring clients make informed decisions.
Technological Innovation: They leverage technology to enhance the client experience. Their user-friendly website and social media presence provide easy access to property listings, market insights, and valuable resources.
Gratitude:
Rimayi expressed gratitude to all clients that they have worked with to date. “I would like to say thank you to our clients for sharing and believing in our vision. Thank you for entrusting us with the opportunity to, firstly, sell your properties, secondly, look after your properties, and thirdly, manage your assets,” he said.
He was also thankful for the valuable support from contractors, the Estate Agents Council of Zimbabwe, and other stakeholders working within the real estate sector. Describing as harmonious the relationship with the various stakeholders they work with.
The future:
The managing director believes that there is a lot of potential for growth as the property market is on an upward trajectory and headed for a boom.
“Oasis Realty is poised for continued growth and expansion. We are committed to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility, and we aim to remain at the forefront of shaping the future of Zimbabwe’s real estate landscape,” said Rimayi.
He also noted the exciting developments in the real estate industry right now. Adding to that, for this to be sustained, the private sector needs to maintain its momentum by complementing the ongoing government policies and infrastructure programs.
As the company embarks on the next chapter, one thing remains certain: Oasis Realty’s dedication to building dreams, step by step, will continue to leave a lasting mark on the Zimbabwean real estate industry for years to come.
Text by Martin Chemhere
Images by Fotohaus
