New Property Valuation Bill to Bring Order, Transparency

In a landmark move to regulate Eswatini’s real estate sector, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has introduced a groundbreaking Property Valuation Bill 2025. The proposed legislation seeks to streamline property valuation practices, establish uniform standards, and boost investor confidence through enhanced transparency and professionalism.

A Framework for Fair and Standardized Valuation

For years, Eswatini’s property market has grappled with inconsistent valuation practices and a lack of oversight. The new Bill aims to address these challenges by ensuring that property valuations are conducted ethically and accurately, benefiting both individual homeowners and larger commercial interests.

Ministry’s Vision and Rationale

At a recent consultative workshop, Principal Secretary Lindiwe Mbingo of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy—represented by Principal Planning Officer Xolile Nxumalo—highlighted the urgent need for standardized valuation practices.

“Property valuation has long been an under-regulated area, leaving room for inconsistencies and disputes,” Nxumalo stated. “By introducing a unified system and code of conduct, we aim to protect property owners, attract investors, and promote sustainable economic growth.”

The Bill’s proponents emphasize that property taxes remain a vital revenue source for local authorities. A stable and transparent valuation framework, they say, will enhance local government budgeting and planning, ultimately benefiting community development.

Strengthening Economic Stability

Accurate and fair property valuations are key to maintaining investor confidence in a competitive regional market. With clear legal parameters and professional oversight:

• Investors gain greater assurance that their assets are valued correctly, reducing perceived risk.
• Homeowners benefit from a transparent, standardized system that minimizes disputes and ensures equitable taxation.
• Local Governments can more effectively project revenue and plan community infrastructure projects, such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.

“This Bill is a critical step toward creating an environment where all parties can operate with clarity,” commented a representative from the legal team overseeing the Bill. “When the rules are well-defined, everyone—buyers, sellers, and valuers—benefits from smoother transactions and fewer conflicts.”

Key Features of the Property Valuation Bill 2025

The Property Valuation Bill 2025 introduces critical reforms to regulate and enhance the property valuation industry in Eswatini. Some of the key aspects include:

1. Establishment of a Regulatory Body
   A formal institutional structure will be set up to oversee, regulate, and standardize property valuation practices. This body will serve as the main reference point for the entire valuation industry, setting guidelines and ensuring compliance.
2. Mandatory Registration and Accreditation
   All practicing valuers will be required to be licensed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy. They must pass comprehensive assessments and meet professional standards, effectively eliminating unqualified or inexperienced individuals from the sector.
3. Implementation of Standardized Service Tariffs
   By introducing uniform tariffs, the Bill aims to reduce incidences of overcharging or underpricing, which can distort property valuation and lead to disputes.
4. Enforcement of Transparent Pricing
   Clear guidelines will be put in place to foster ethical conduct and ensure clients receive high-quality, professional valuation services.
5. Enhanced Consumer Protection
   Consumers, investors, and property owners stand to benefit from professional standards and fair valuation practices, which bolster market confidence.
6. Public Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement
   The Bill mandates ongoing engagement with local communities, businesses, and professional bodies. Their input will help shape the final regulations and ensure the legislation meets real-world needs.
7. Encouragement of Professional Valuation Associations
   A supportive environment will be created for professional associations that train valuers and uphold industry standards, promoting continuous professional development.
8. Clear Legal Framework
   The Bill sets out the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders—valuers, government agencies, and property owners—while clarifying enforcement mechanisms to ensure accountability and compliance.

Aligning with Best Practices

By integrating modern technology—such as geographic information systems (GIS) and data analytics—the government hopes to streamline the assessment process, reduce human error, and strengthen oversight. The Ministry also plans to collaborate with professional organizations to offer continuous training for valuers, ensuring they remain current with global best practices.

Looking Ahead

With consultations ongoing, policymakers expect to refine the Bill before presenting it to Parliament. Industry experts and civic leaders are largely optimistic about the legislation’s potential to usher in a new era of accountability in Eswatini’s property market.

“A fair, transparent property valuation system is long overdue,” said a prominent real estate developer. “It not only protects property owners but also sets the stage for sustainable growth and responsible urban planning.”

If enacted, the Property Valuation Bill 2025 could serve as a model for other sectors, illustrating how clear legal frameworks and modern standards can drive development, ensure fairness, and attract much-needed investment to Eswatini.