Answers before deciding
Buying resale property in Dubai: steps and costs
An existing home can be visited and its surroundings checked. The asking price is only a starting point: examine its full cost, condition and occupancy before making an offer.
Three steps before signing
Define your goal, total budget, timing and a reserve for repairs.
View the home and request ownership, seller authority, charges, tenancy and outstanding finance documents. Resolve discrepancies.
Agree the checks and financing conditions for your offer. Put deposit terms, deadlines and cost allocation in writing before paying.
Costs beyond the asking price
DLD registration lists 2% for the seller and 2% for the buyer. Confirm the contractual allocation of the combined 4%.
Transfer centre: AED 4,000 + VAT for a sale of AED 500,000 or more; otherwise AED 2,000 + VAT. Title, map and other applicable charges are additional.
Request a written breakdown of brokerage and applicable taxes, NOC, inspection, bank, valuation and mortgage registration costs where relevant.
Plan ongoing service charges, maintenance, cooling, insurance, furniture, repairs and possible rental vacancy.
Questions to review together
Is it vacant or tenanted? Confirm occupancy arrangements before planning a move.
Compare actual similar sales, accounting for building, size, condition and view. An asking price is not a completed sale.
Review neighbouring plots and announced construction before assuming a view or quiet surroundings will remain.
Compare the purchase plus repairs, not just the headline price. An independent inspection can help identify work to budget for.