Hunting for a home
When we made the move to Lusaka, we closed one chapter properly , selling our much-loved first home in South Africa. It felt like the cleanest, simplest decision at the time. No tenants, no admin, no lingering ties.
What we didn’t quite plan for… was just how quickly it would sell.
Suddenly, we found ourselves in limbo, effectively homeless for over three months while we waited for work permits. Everything we owned was neatly packed up by Elliots (who, to be fair, were fantastic), shipped and stored en route to Lusaka.
And us?
We were living out of two kit bags and three ammo boxes.
There’s something novel about minimal living… for about a week.
After that, it starts to wear thin.
We bounced between Airbnbs, trying to piece together some sense of routine for the kids and never quite settling, always packing and unpacking. What felt like a short-term adventure quickly became exhausting. Familiarity disappeared. Even the small comforts — knowing where the teaspoons are, having your own pillow — started to feel like luxuries.
And then there was the logistics juggling act:
When do you commit to a lease?
What if your shipment is delayed?
Do you risk moving into an empty house?
Or extend temporary stays and hope everything aligns?
Spoiler: it rarely aligns perfectly.
Like anyone new to a city, we started with the obvious, scrolling endlessly through listings on Homenet Zambia and Pam Golding Properties.
They’re a great starting point but just know a WhatsApp message will get you much further than an email.
The rental market moves quite slowly so there are houses available.
Rent will likely be one of your biggest monthly expenses especially if you’re looking in the more established or expat-friendly areas.
If you’re willing to live a little further out of town, the trade-off is extraordinary.
Think:
Expansive properties
Towering trees that dwarf everything
Space, real space
And the soundtrack?
Franklins. Nightjars. The unmistakable call of a trumpeter hornbill.
It’s a different rhythm of living, one that feels a little wilder, a little slower, and a lot more connected.
Good to know
When we were looking for a place in Lusaka, there a few suburbs that stand out:
Kabulonga – This area seems to be the choice for diplomats and executives.
Woodlands – Tree-lined streets and spacious homes
Leopards Hill – Perfect for those who love outdoor living
Longacres – A mix of modern homes and embassies
Ibex Hill – Close to the American Embassy
Other areas to consider – Places like State Lodge, Sunningdale, and Avondale each have their own character, from gated communities to modern townhouses.
When renting, one thing I’d definitely prioritise is homes that are off-grid or have reliable backup power - it makes a huge difference in day-to-day life here.
