Questions You Must Ask a Developer Before Buying New Homes in the UAE (2025 Guide)

Saturday, 18 October 2025

Buying a new home is one of the biggest milestones in life — an exciting step filled with dreams, planning, and possibilities. But before making that big decision, it’s essential to ask the right questions to your developer. Doing so helps ensure transparency, clarity, and confidence in your investment.

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an investor exploring off-plan projects, asking these key questions will help you make an informed and secure decision when purchasing a new property in the UAE.

Table of Contents

• What Is the Project’s Current Stage and Completion Timeline?
• What Are the Additional Costs Beyond the Property Price?
• What Are the Key Benefits of Buying This Property?
• What Measures Are in Place to Avoid Construction Delays?
• Is the Developer and Project Registered with RERA?
• What Is the Step-by-Step Process of Buying This Property?
• Are There Financing or Mortgage Options Available?
• What Amenities and Facilities Are Included in the Community?
• Can I Sell or Lease the Property Before Completion?
• What Kind of Warranty or After-Sales Support Is Provided?
• Frequently asked questions

1. What Is the Project’s Current Stage and Completion Timeline?

Before committing to a property, always ask the developer about the project’s construction status and expected completion date. Understanding the timeline allows you to plan your finances and move-in schedule efficiently.

Tip: Ask for regular construction updates or milestone completion reports to stay informed throughout the process.

2. What Are the Additional Costs Beyond the Property Price?

While the property’s base price is your primary expense, there are additional charges you must be aware of. These may include:

• Dubai Land Department (DLD) fees (4% of property value)
• Registration and title deed fees
• Service charges, calculated on a per-square-foot basis
• Maintenance fees and community-related costs

Tip: Request a detailed cost breakdown from your developer to understand your total financial commitment clearly.

3. What Are the Key Benefits of Buying This Property?

Each new development offers unique advantages, from flexible payment plans to lifestyle amenities. Ask your developer to highlight the project’s strengths, such as:

• Family-friendly layouts and green surroundings
• Easy access to schools, shopping areas, and highways
• Potential for capital appreciation and rental returns

Tip: Evaluate both short-term convenience and long-term investment potential before deciding.

4. What Measures Are in Place to Avoid Construction Delays?

Construction delays can happen for various reasons, but proactive developers have clear management systems in place to minimize risks. Ask how progress is monitored and what contingency plans exist to ensure timely delivery.

Tip: Check if there are penalties or compensation clauses in case of project delays to safeguard your interests.

5. Is the Developer and Project Registered with RERA?

Always verify that the developer and the project are registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). This ensures that your investment is legally protected and follows government guidelines for property development.

Tip: You can verify RERA registration details through official property portals or by requesting documentation directly from the developer.

6. What Is the Step-by-Step Process of Buying This Property?

Before signing any agreement, make sure you understand each step in the buying process. Generally, the process involves:

1. Selecting a property and signing a reservation form
2. Making an initial down payment
3. Signing the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA)
4. Paying instalments according to the construction progress
5. Completing the final payment and taking handover

Tip: Keep copies of all agreements and payment receipts for your records.

7. Are There Financing or Mortgage Options Available?

If you’re planning to finance your purchase, ask whether the project is approved for bank mortgages. Some developers offer partnerships with local banks that make financing easier, while others may provide in-house payment plans.

Tip: Compare different financing options and ensure that payment schedules align with your financial plan.

8. What Amenities and Facilities Are Included in the Community?

Community features add immense value to your living experience. Ask about available amenities such as:

• Swimming pools and gyms
• Parks, playgrounds, and jogging tracks
• Retail spaces and schools within the development

Tip: Choose communities that align with your lifestyle — family-oriented, wellness-focused, or urban and dynamic.

9. Can I Sell or Lease the Property Before Completion?

For investors, flexibility is key. Ask whether the developer allows reselling or leasing before handover. Many developers permit buyers to resell off-plan contracts once a certain percentage of the purchase price is paid.

Tip: Review all terms in your Sales and Purchase Agreement to understand your rights before making such decisions.

10. What Kind of Warranty or After-Sales Support Is Provided?

Reliable developers offer post-handover support for maintenance and structural issues. Always ask about the defects liability period (DLP) and how long your home is covered for repairs after handover.

Tip: Keep a record of all warranty terms and ensure your handover checklist is completed before moving in.

Buying a new home in the UAE is a rewarding experience when you’re well-informed and prepared. By asking your developer the right questions — about timelines, additional costs, legal registration, and warranties — you ensure transparency and peace of mind throughout your home-buying journey.

Whether purchasing your first family home or making a smart real estate investment, being proactive helps you make the most of the UAE’s thriving property market. With careful planning, your dream home can become a secure and fulfilling reality.