FAQ's on Buying Residential Property in Abu Dhabi

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Am I ready to buy a home?
I want to buy property – what is the first thing I should do?
How much is the initial deposit?
Can I buy anywhere in Abu Dhabi?
What is the difference between freehold and leasehold?
Can a foreigner hold a leasehold title in Abu Dhabi?
What type of residency visa is received upon the purchase of leasehold in Abu Dhabi?
Why do people want to know the original price?
What are the payment terms for off-plan properties?
What are the payment terms for ready now properties?
Can I get financing in the UAE?
Can I rent out my property when it is complete?
Can Better Homes manage my property?

Am I ready to buy a home?

Well, you’ll need to answer these questions first:

Do you have money saved for a down payment?
In the event that you are seeking financing; do you have the ability to pay a mortgage every month, plus the additional costs associated with home ownership, such as maintenance and utilities?

If your answer to the above questions is yes, they you may well be ready. If not, hang in there and we’ll be waiting to assist you when you’re ready.

I want to buy property – what is the first thing I should do?

Contact a reputable real estate company like Better Homes.
Decide on a budget and seek funding advice, if applicable.
Consult a Better Homes real estate consultant for property options or
Pick up a copy of the Better Homes Magazine to get an idea of what is available in the market.

How much is the initial deposit?

This is the amount paid to the consultant or developer to secure the property. The initial deposit varies from developer to developer, ranging from *2-25%. Check with your consultant to see what is applicable.

Can I buy anywhere in Abu Dhabi?

If you are a non-UAE or GCC national, you can only buy in areas designated specifically for expatriate freehold and leasehold sales.

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What is the difference between freehold and leasehold?

A leasehold title is when a third party has an interest in the property. A leasehold contract is normally for 99 years. There are freehold and leasehold developments available for sale in Abu Dhabi.

Can a foreigner hold a leasehold title in Abu Dhabi?

Yes. Non-GCC expatriates can own pre-designated leasehold areas that are approved by the Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

What type of residency visa is received upon the purchase of leasehold in Abu Dhabi?

There are no residency visas issued in Abu Dhabi as a result of the purchase of a leasehold property.

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Why do people want to know the original price?

People want to know the original price to be able to calculate the difference between the original and the current market price – this determines whether the property has appreciated or depreciated in value.

What are the payment terms for off-plan properties?

A down payment of *10-20% of the property value has to be made upon booking a property. The balance payment is made in installments at fixed intervals during the completion period of the property.

What are the payment terms for ready now properties?

100% payment is required for properties ready to move in.

Can I get financing in the UAE?

Yes, if you are a resident, but terms differ between the limited numbers of local lenders. However, finance can be arranged through overseas lenders if you have assets overseas. Many investors with assets overseas (property, income, investments) have taken advantage of favorable international interest rates. For example, someone with property in the UK may be able to release equity to a maximum of 80% of the value of their property (less any outstanding mortgage), to finance all or part of their property purchase in Abu Dhabi.

Our BH Plus division provides you access to quality finance providers to make your financing process safe and hassle free.

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Can I rent out my property when it is complete?

Better Homes can help you rent your property long-term unfurnished or short-term fully furnished to our corporate clients or overseas holiday makers.

Can Better Homes manage my property?

Sure. Better Homes has a dedicated property management team who can manage your property and maximise its value. Contact our Property Management team for details.

Disclaimer:

*To be confirmed with the developer and Abu Dhabi Lands Department.

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