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How to choose an off-plan property in Dubai: a 12-point checklist

Twelve things to check before booking an apartment in a building under construction in Dubai. Save the list and run every project on your shortlist through it.

1–3. Developer and project

1) How many projects the developer has delivered and how late. 2) The project is registered with the DLD and has RERA approval to sell. 3) The completion percentage and planned handover date in the registry match what the seller promises.

4–6. Money and protection

4) The project has an escrow account and you pay only into it. 5) The sales agreement (SPA) covers delay compensation and termination terms. 6) You know what happens if you resell before handover: after what share of payments the developer allows assignment and at what fee.

7–9. Full cost

7) The price plus the 4% DLD fee, registration fees and agent commission. 8) The service charge per square foot per year — it affects net yield. 9) The payment plan: how much is due before handover and whether there are post-handover payments.

10–12. Area and income

10) How many units are being built in the area now — strong future competition for tenants pushes rents down. 11) Real rents from the DLD rental index, not the seller's forecast. 12) Price per square foot against the area average and against ready homes nearby.

How to use the checklist

Make a table: projects in columns, the twelve points in rows. A project with three or more open questions is better put aside. A great area does not save a weak developer, and a low price does not make up for a bad payment plan.

How PromptEstates helps

PromptEstates gathers the data for this checklist automatically: DLD registry, escrow, payment plan, full cost with the 4% DLD fee and yield — in one project card.

Frequently asked questions

How many projects should I compare?

At least three in the same budget and area — that shows what price and payment plan are normal for the market.

What matters more: the area or the developer?

For off-plan, the developer: timelines and quality depend on it. The area drives demand and rent after handover.

Can I check everything myself?

Yes, most of it, using open DLD data and the developer's documents. PromptEstates gathers it in one card.

Sources: Dubai Land Department

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