How to choose the right property developer?

With so many enticing options choosing the right property developer in Dubai can definitely be a bit of a challenge.

The Dubai off-plan real estate landscape is filled with a host of different developers each of which offers a range of different projects at any given time. So with so many options out there how do you go about choosing the right developer for you?

Assuming you already know the community you wish the make your purchase in the following are just some of the factors to consider.

Developer Standing

You wouldn’t buy a car from a company you have never heard of and know nothing about so it should be no different with an off-plan property. Research the developer and find out as much information as you can. How long have they been operating? Who are they owned by? How many projects are they currently working on? These are just some of the things to note and take into account. Whilst there are regulations put in place by the Dubai government to protect buyers, it’s always advisable to do your own research as an extra precaution.

Track Record of the Property Developer

Past performance is usually a great indicator of future performance so it’s important to learn about other projects the developer has delivered. Some of the factors to consider when evaluating past performance:

  • Was the quality and standard of the finished product as promised?
  • Was the project completed on time?
  • Did the developer build what the promised?
  • Does the finished product match the brochures and marketing material used?
  • Are previous buyers and tenants happy with the property?

If the answer to these is no, you need to ask yourself why not and more importantly why it would be any different with current and future projects.

Payment Terms

As mentioned in our previous post different developers can and do offer different payment terms. Whilst this shouldn’t be a deciding factor it is something that needs to be taken into consideration in order to choose a property developer and development that’s best suited to your circumstances.

Developer Reputation

Brand reputation is a funny thing and once established can be hard to shake. This is especially true in cases where that reputation is unfavourable. Buying from a developer with a not-so-flash reputation can seriously impact your resale value even if that unfavourable reputation is no longer justified.

Developers offering?

One of the biggest factors that will determine which developer is right for you will depend on what they offer. If you are in the market for say a villa then the developer you choose must offer villas. Otherwise as good as they are they simply don’t have the property type you are after.

This also applies to the communities where a particular developer may or not have projects or rights to build. Some communities are exclusively built by the master developer meaning if you wish to buy there you have no choice but to buy from that particular developer. A good example of this would be Tilal Al Ghaf which is a relatively new community exclusively developed by Majid Al Futtaim.

Price

Whilst price should never be the deciding factor when choosing the right property developer in Dubai it definitely isn’t something that can be ignored. Different property developers offer different projects and property types at often very different price points. The reason for different prices could be for many reasons including the project location, size, quality of finishing, etc.

However, some developers, do tend to offer better value properties so assuming all other things are equal or at least comparable the developer offering the best value should always be your first choice.

Development Experience

No two property developers are equal and the same can be said for their experience. This is especially true when considering different project types. Put simply some developers may have years of experience developing stunning villa communities but have never developed a high-rise building or vice versa. Put simply, all experience is important but proven experience in delivering the type of product being sold is even more valuable.

Summary

The process of buying the right property, in the right community and from the right developer can be a little daunting. However, with the right due research, consideration, and advice it certainly doesn’t have to be. Take time to get those 3 in order and make your next off plan purchase an enjoyable and fun process.

Mentioned here are just some of the questions to ask and things to consider before making your final decision. Like with most things, information is key, and having the right information will go a long way in ensuring that the developer you end up choosing is the best option for your wants and needs. For more information about  off-plan property see Off Plan Property Dubai.

Share This
About The Author
Charlie Budnjo

Charlie is a real estate professional with over 15 years experience in selling, buying and writing about property. Part of the Off-PlanProperties.ae team for over 8 years Charlie covers all things related to Dubai's latest project releases.