Buying off-plan means purchasing before a property is handed over. The project documents set the terms of your commitment. This guide helps you organise the process and the questions to ask.
1. Set your budget
Decide how much you can commit and when your funds will be available. The property price is only part of the budget.
- Allow for applicable transaction and registration fees, and any intermediary fees.
- Include furniture or fit-out where needed, then running costs and maintenance after handover.
- Keep a reserve if handover or the start of rental income moves.
To compare assumptions about rent, costs and returns, use the calculator on our investment page.
2. Choose a suitable project
Decide whether you plan to live in the property, rent it out or hold it for the long term. Compare projects using the same criteria.
- Neighbourhood, access, services and immediate surroundings.
- Property type, size, floor, orientation and included equipment.
- Price, announced handover date and payment schedule. Compare the advertised date with the date and terms in the contract.
3. Check before reserving
Review available documents and the developer’s background. Check the project’s status with the Dubai Land Department and request missing details before committing.
- Confirm the developer’s identity and any intermediary involved.
- Request the unit plan, written specifications and reservation documents.
- Confirm the payment recipient and the account applicable to the project, including the escrow account where applicable.
Check project status with the Dubai Land Department
4. Get reservation terms in writing
An expression of interest (EOI) or deposit does not replace the sale contract. Before paying, request written confirmation of what is being reserved and on what terms.
- Exact unit reference, price and deposit amount.
- Refund or cancellation conditions and deadlines.
- Signing deadline and next payment. Ask what happens if the selected unit is no longer available.
5. Review and sign the contract
The sale and purchase agreement, usually called the SPA, sets out the purchase terms. Read it before signing and ask for any unclear points to be explained.
- Property specifications, equipment, size and possible changes.
- Payments, handover, delay clauses and the process for reporting defects.
- Conditions for resale before completion, including approvals, paid amounts and fees.
- Ask when the interim Oqood registration will be completed and which supporting documents you will receive.
6. Make payments and follow progress
Follow the contractual schedule. Some instalments fall on fixed dates; others depend on construction progress. Keep notices, receipts and correspondence.
- Check the amount and recipient for every payment request.
- Request progress updates and clarification of any schedule changes.
- If a balance remains after handover, plan to fund it without assuming rent will cover the instalments.
7. Prepare for handover
Arrange an inspection and gather the necessary documents before taking possession. Reporting defects is often called snagging.
- Check finishes, doors, windows, air conditioning, plumbing and electrics; record defects with photographs.
- Confirm included equipment, parking and agreed corrections.
- Clarify the remaining balance, charges, keys and registration or ownership documents to be provided.
- Prepare for personal use, letting or resale using realistic costs.
Frequently asked questions
What is an off-plan purchase?
Can I sell before handover?
What does payment after handover mean?
Would you like to apply these steps to a specific project? Tell us your criteria and questions.