Before You Buy Off-Plan — Ask These 4 Questions
Wednesday, 26 November 2025
Buying an off-plan property in Dubai is one of the most exciting investment decisions you can make — a chance to own a brand-new home or a property with strong returns. But before you sign that contract or make your first payment, it’s essential to ask the right questions. Doing so ensures your investment remains secure, transparent, and rewarding.
Here are four smart questions every buyer should ask before purchasing an off-plan property.
Table of Contents
- Is the Project Registered with RERA and Does It Have an Escrow Account?
- What’s the Payment Schedule, and Is It Linked to Construction Milestones?
- How Are Delays Handled, and What’s the Expected Completion Timeline?
- Are There Any Additional or Hidden Costs to Know About?
- Frequently asked questions
1. Is the Project Registered with RERA and Does It Have an Escrow Account?
Always start by confirming that the project is officially registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) and has an approved escrow account with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
These registrations protect your money and ensure that your payments are used for construction, not unrelated expenses. You can request the RERA registration number directly from the developer — a legitimate developer will always share this information confidently.
Why it matters:
- Ensures your payments are legally protected
- Confirms the project’s authenticity and compliance
- Gives peace of mind about financial transparency
2. What’s the Payment Schedule, and Is It Linked to Construction Milestones?
A flexible payment plan can be appealing, but what truly matters is how it’s structured. Ideally, the payment schedule should be linked to actual construction milestones — not just fixed calendar dates.
For example, payments should align with real progress such as completion of structure, finishing, or handover. This ensures you only pay when development moves forward.
Why it matters:
- Keeps the developer accountable
- Provides visibility on project progress
- Helps manage your budget efficiently
How Are Delays Handled, and What’s the Expected Completion Timeline?
Even the best-planned projects can experience construction delays. What matters most is how the developer handles them. A trustworthy developer will clearly outline the expected completion date, any possible grace periods, and policies for delay compensation.
Why it matters:
- Clarifies your rights in case of delays
- Helps set realistic handover expectations
- Avoids last-minute surprises
4. Are There Any Additional or Hidden Costs to Know About?
Transparency is key when investing off-plan. Beyond the property price, there may be additional fees such as:
- DLD registration (typically 4% of the purchase price)
- Oqood registration charges
- Service fees and maintenance costs
- NOC or administrative charges
- Utility connection or cooling charges
A transparent cost breakdown from the start ensures you budget wisely and prevents unexpected financial stress later.
Why it matters:
- Avoids hidden expenses
- Helps plan your total investment accurately
- Builds trust between buyer and developer
Final Thought
Dubai’s real estate market continues to evolve, offering modern, innovative developments with excellent growth potential. But success in buying off-plan property lies in asking the right questions. Stay informed, stay confident, and approach your purchase with curiosity and clarity.
Your investment deserves transparency — and these four questions ensure just that.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “off-plan property” mean?
An off-plan property is a real estate project that’s still under construction or yet to begin. Buyers purchase units before completion, often at a lower price.
Why should I check for RERA registration?
RERA registration ensures the project is approved and monitored by Dubai authorities, providing buyer protection and transparency.
Can I resell my off-plan property before handover?
Yes, many developers allow resales after you’ve paid a certain percentage of the property’s value. Always check your sales agreement for details.
How do milestone-based payments benefit me?
They ensure you only pay as construction progresses, keeping the developer accountable and reducing financial risk.
What extra costs should I expect when buying off-plan?
Expect fees like DLD registration, service charges, Oqood registration, and utility setup costs. Always ask for a full breakdown upfront.
