28/02/2025
SMART INVESTMENTS: When Looking to Invest, Which Comes First? The Size of the Property or the Location?
For property developers, investors, and entrepreneurs, one of the biggest debates in real estate investment is: What matters more—size or location? Should you prioritize a large property with more space and potential, or should you focus on securing the best location, even if it means sacrificing size?
The truth is, both factors are important, but their significance depends on your investment goals, target market, and long-term strategy. Let’s break it down.
1. The Power of Location: Why It’s Often the Winner
In real estate, there’s a famous saying: “Location, location, location.” And for good reason. The location of a property determines its demand, appreciation potential, rental yield, and resale value. Here’s why location often comes first:
✅ Higher Demand & Resale Value – A prime location attracts buyers and tenants easily, ensuring that your investment remains valuable over time.
✅ Better Infrastructure & Accessibility – Properties near key amenities like shopping centers, schools, business districts, and major roads tend to appreciate faster.
✅ Greater Rental Income – If you’re investing in rental properties, a well-located property guarantees a steady stream of tenants, even if the unit is smaller.
✅ Limited Supply & Higher Appreciation – Unlike land size, location is fixed. As cities grow, well-situated properties become even more desirable, pushing up their value.
🔹 Example: A two-bedroom apartment in the heart of Lusaka might generate higher rental returns than a large house in a remote area with little demand.
2. When Size Takes Priority
While location is key, there are times when size matters more, especially for developers and investors looking at long-term growth. Here’s when bigger is better:
✅ Development & Expansion Opportunities – A larger plot gives you room to build multiple units, add extensions, or develop commercial spaces, maximizing returns.
✅ More Affordable Entry Prices – You can often buy larger properties in emerging areas for a lower cost, allowing for greater flexibility in development.
✅ Long-Term Capital Gains – If you invest in a large property in an up-and-coming area, you could see massive appreciation as the area develops.
🔹 Example: Buying a large plot near Chaminuka Luxury Estate today might be more profitable in the future as the area develops into a high-end residential zone.
3. The Ideal Balance: Finding the Sweet Spot
The best investors know that location and size must work together. Here’s how to make a balanced decision:
🔹 For Rental Income → Prioritize location over size. A well-placed but smaller property will always attract tenants.
🔹 For Long-Term Appreciation → Invest in a growing location with the potential to develop a large property.
🔹 For Development Projects → Look for sizable plots in high-demand areas where growth is happening.
🔹 For Affordability & Future Growth → Consider buying larger plots in upcoming locations where property prices are still low but expected to rise.
Final Verdict: Start with Location, Then Consider Size
If you’re looking for immediate returns and consistent demand, location comes first. However, if your strategy is long-term wealth creation, then size in a growing area could be a game-changer.
For developers, investors, and entrepreneurs, the key is to align your investment with your goals. Whether you prioritize size or location, strategic planning and market research are crucial.
So, what’s your next move? Will you go for a prime location, a bigger space, or the perfect balance of both? The right decision could shape your financial future!
- Kamphembele Ngulube