In this guide
How long it takes to buy a car through Invarium Financial Services depends mostly on two things: how quickly you find the right car, and whether the papers are complete. The process runs from the marketplace and a WhatsApp chat to a viewing and test drive, then police clearance, ZIMRA, the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR), licence and insurance. Complete papers keep every step moving.
Who we are
Invarium Financial Services (IFS Zimbabwe) helps people find and buy cars from vetted dealer partners. Our office is on the 6th Floor, 103 Jason Moyo Avenue, Harare, and most buyers start with us on WhatsApp. Invarium Harare works with buyers across the country, including Bulawayo, Mutare and Gweru.
The steps with Invarium Financial Services
1. Browse the marketplace
Start on the Invarium marketplace, where Invarium cars from vetted dealer partners are listed with photos and cash prices. Shortlist two or three that fit your budget and how you drive.
2. Message us on WhatsApp
Send us the cars you like, your budget and any questions on +263 788 061 811. We confirm the car is still available, answer questions about its condition and papers, and arrange a viewing.
3. Viewing and test drive
See the car in daylight and take it for a proper test drive. Bring a mechanic if you can. If it is not right, we help you look at the next one on your list.
4. Check the papers
Before any money changes hands, we go through the original registration book, the seller's ID, the engine and chassis numbers and, for imports, the ZIMRA duty clearance. This is the step that most affects timing.
5. Police clearance
The car goes to the ZRP Vehicle Theft Squad, which checks the engine and chassis numbers and stamps the CVR change-of-ownership form.
6. ZIMRA
The change-of-ownership duty is paid at ZIMRA. The amount depends on the car's age and engine size, so check current rates.
7. Central Vehicle Registry
The stamped form, registration book, IDs, proof of residence, sale agreement and proof of payment are submitted to the CVR, which issues the registration book in your name.
8. Licence and insurance
Insure the car (third-party cover is compulsory) and make sure the ZINARA licence and ZBC radio licence are current before you drive away.
What affects how long it takes
| Factor | Speeds things up | Slows things down | |---|---|---| | Choosing a car | A clear budget and shortlist | Undecided on model or size | | Papers | Original book, matching names and numbers | Missing book, name mismatch, unpaid licence fees | | Imports | ZIMRA clearance on hand | Missing duty papers | | Availability | Buyer and seller free to sign together | Waiting on signatures | | Offices | Visiting early in the week | Public holidays and month-end queues |
We cannot promise a fixed number of days, because each car and its papers are different. What we can do is check the papers early, so problems surface before you commit.
Have these ready
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For more detail on each step, read our step-by-step guide to buying a car in Zimbabwe and the car buyer's document checklist.
Talk to us
Message us on WhatsApp on +263 788 061 811, or visit the 6th Floor, 103 Jason Moyo Avenue, Harare.
Questions people ask
Questions and answers
How long does it take to buy a car through Invarium Financial Services?
It depends on how quickly you choose a car and whether the papers are complete. When the registration book, IDs and clearances are all in order, police clearance, ZIMRA and the CVR can move quickly; missing papers are the most common cause of delay.
Where is Invarium in Harare?
Our office is on the 6th Floor, 103 Jason Moyo Avenue, Harare. Most buyers start by messaging us on WhatsApp on +263 788 061 811.
Do I need to handle police clearance and the CVR myself?
Buyer and seller both need to sign the change-of-ownership papers. We explain each step, check the papers early and help you plan the visits to the ZRP, ZIMRA and the CVR.
Can I buy from outside Harare?
Yes. Buyers in Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru and elsewhere can browse the marketplace and talk to us on WhatsApp. You will still need to view the car and sign the papers in person.
Know someone buying a car?
Send them this guide.