Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, offering a comfortable living experience of a high quality. Constantly soaring to new heights and offering a plethora of options in all aspects from housing and education, to recreation and dining, Dubai is undoubtedly the finest place to make home. There is plenty of choice of accommodation in Dubai but villa community living is definitely a preference, offering space, privacy and comfort. Although, once you make up your mind to buy a villa, it is easy to get lost in the multitude of factors that must be considered. One of UAE’s premier property developers, Indigo Properties, helps make this process much easier by outlining 10 important features to consider when buying a villa in Dubai.
1. Location and Neighborhood
Location is key, as it will remain constant until the end of time. Consider the proximity of public transportation such as the Dubai Metro. Perhaps a Tram station is in walking distance? If you have children, research the closest nursery’s and schools. If you’re a newly married couple do the same, as a home is permanent and long-term factors should be taken into consideration. Locate the closest supermarket, pharmacy, clinic, shopping center, petrol station and all other amenities that you will require. Ideally a villa community should have its own retail center having a large spectrum of outlets. Self-contained living communities make for an ideal home. Study the neighborhood: income levels and age distribution. If it’s an off-plan development, the reputation of the developer, property prices and the quality of construction should give you a considerable idea.
2. Credentials of Developer
What is the quality of the developers’ previous projects? Do they deliver excellence? Do they meet or surpass what they have promised? Based on personal or friends’ past experiences, are they trustworthy? What is their track record for after-sale care and maintenance? A genuine property developer won’t just sell you a property and end the relationship there; they’ll cater to your needs and ensure that your decision is best for you. Do some first-hand research; attain referrals for passionate, sincere developers with quality projects.
3. Quality of Property/Construction
What sets apart a genuine property developer from others is the quality of the property offered. While some properties come as shell and core units, others, for the same price per square foot, offer wall fittings, marble flooring, state-of-the-art kitchen appliances, smart home systems and more, with the developers absorbing extra costs for your benefit. These developers work with the very best partners at every stage, from engineers to architects, from master developers to contractors, ensuring the best quality of design and construction, and develop to deliver outstanding properties, reducing any potential problems that may exist such as structural issues and damage. A high quality, well-structured property will surely prevent you from facing major expenses.
4. Size
Most people when looking for a house do not factor in the long term and how demands might change. You might be a young couple and hence you need little space, however, in a few years you might have a couple of little ones to take care of, relatives visiting often or parents living with you. Factor these possibilities in and look for a place with a minimum of three or four bedrooms. Always look for a property with all ensuite bedrooms. Large, spacious townhouses or villas contribute to a more comfortable living. Enormous windows allowing bright sunlight to flood in would accentuate the spaciousness of the rooms.
5. View
It would be hard to enjoy your morning coffee on a weekend, gazing through the window at power lines or at the fish market. Imagine instead looking out at a fresh stream of flowing water while listening to birds chirping perched on nearby trees. Imagine gazing out your window at the twinkling lights and magnificent skyline of this remarkably beautiful city as you savor your candlelit dinner. Although the view may not seem as most important, a view of water and greenery adds some sparks and wonder to one’s daily routine and melts the stress away.
6. Service Charges
Recurring monthly or yearly costs must be taken into consideration, including electricity and service charges. Keep in mind that certain reoccurring expenses will take place post-purchase for maintaining the community. Set some cash aside for these minor expenses. Contrary to popular belief, villas’ service charges are usually much lower on a per square foot basis than apartments.
7. Maintenance Standards
When contemplating buying the right house, ensure that the villa complex uses a reputable maintenance agency. Imagine how tedious it would be trying to find a suitable maintenance person to come fix a faucet that decided to burst at 5am. Find out about their availability and clean services provided; how often and well are community areas cleaned? More importantly, ensure that your safety is a priority – find out if smart home technology is offered in villas and townhouses, and what security systems are in place in apartment buildings. How much is being done to keep your community living safe and clean?
8. Amenities Available
Is the community self-contained? Does the building offer basic amenities? Having to drive 20 minutes to go to the gym each day would be quite a demotivating factor. How much easier would it be if all gym facilities, perhaps even group classes and personal trainers, were available just a street away? Get a thorough understanding of all amenities available. Is it a safely guarded gated community for children to play in? Are children’s playgrounds available? Is there a shared gym and swimming pool? These are just some amenities to consider, your list of desired amenities depends on what factors are important to you.
9. Garden Space
If you have young kids, you do not want them cooped up in a room. Lush landscaping or garden spaces allow children to run about in the fresh air and be close to nature. As for you, what is a better way to spend a weekend than to be lazing in the tranquility of your garden, reading a good book?
10. Re-sale Value
While buying a new home is a lifestyle change and usually more permanent, you may make different decisions in the future such as taking on a new job in another country or shifting elsewhere – a home with more bedrooms, a newer location. You may not wish to keep your property due to requiring finances to make the change, so upon purchase of a property it is helpful to consider what the re-sale value would be after a specific time period.
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Khayyat Contracting And Trading Sees Qatar Infrastructure Spending Reaching $200 Billion Over Next Decade
A leading contractor based in Doha sees total infrastructure investments in Qatar breaching the $200bn mark in the next 10 years.
Mohamad Moataz Al Khayyat, CEO, Al Khayyat Contracting and Trading, a leading international design and build company with its main headquarters in Doha, says state spending alone has been estimated to reach $160bn. He believes, however, that additional investments will pour in from the private sector to complement what the government is doing to boost infrastructure development in the country.
"Preparations for the World Cup, though a government driven activity, will also see external investments being made outside state funding to cash in on the windfall expected from staging the world's biggest sporting event. The retail industry will open up, as will the F&B sector. Tourism and hospitality will see further activity, beyond what the government is planning," said Al Khayyat.
The infrastructure spending is expected to boost Qatar’s non-oil economy, which EFG-Hermes predicts will expand by as much as 16 percent a year from next year until 2018.
The latest Arcadis Global Infrastructure Investment Spending Index already ranks Qatar as the second most attractive infrastructure investment destination in the world, behind only Singapore. "In the Gulf region, it leads all other nations and has maintained this ranking for the past two years - an affirmation of investor confidence in the country's potential to attract investments over and above what the state will spend," added Al Khayyat.
While the future prospects for Qatar's infrastructure projects market look promising, supply and construction costs issues will eventually surface and have to be addressed. Al Khayyat is currently developing many projects, and is feeling the burden of rising construction costs. By Al Khayyat’s estimates, prices of construction materials have increased by as much as 5-10% in the last twelve months.
Qatar has set its sights beyond the staging of the World Cup, ensuring the assets it has built over the next decade will have productive use beyond the event. "The infrastructure that will be put in place over the next few years, will accommodate the expected influx of tourists and new expatriate workers as Qatar’s economy continues to grow. The stadiums are already being earmarked for use by local clubs and tournaments as well as regional sporting events,” explained Al Khayyat.
Doha certainly has the liquidity and financial might to make its ambitions happen. And the private sector will also have a role to play in contributing to the future growth of Qatar.
++ About Khayyat Contracting and Trading (KCT) - KCT is a general construction company which has prominently emerged as a key construction contractor in Qatar with visionary leadership and highly experienced management. Its primary mission is to translate its vast professional expertise into construction landmarks within the potential of Qatari emerging markets by providing the highest level of integrity, innovative solutions, and continuous client support.
Mohamad Moataz Al Khayyat, CEO, Al Khayyat Contracting and Trading, a leading international design and build company with its main headquarters in Doha, says state spending alone has been estimated to reach $160bn. He believes, however, that additional investments will pour in from the private sector to complement what the government is doing to boost infrastructure development in the country.
"Preparations for the World Cup, though a government driven activity, will also see external investments being made outside state funding to cash in on the windfall expected from staging the world's biggest sporting event. The retail industry will open up, as will the F&B sector. Tourism and hospitality will see further activity, beyond what the government is planning," said Al Khayyat.
The infrastructure spending is expected to boost Qatar’s non-oil economy, which EFG-Hermes predicts will expand by as much as 16 percent a year from next year until 2018.
The latest Arcadis Global Infrastructure Investment Spending Index already ranks Qatar as the second most attractive infrastructure investment destination in the world, behind only Singapore. "In the Gulf region, it leads all other nations and has maintained this ranking for the past two years - an affirmation of investor confidence in the country's potential to attract investments over and above what the state will spend," added Al Khayyat.
While the future prospects for Qatar's infrastructure projects market look promising, supply and construction costs issues will eventually surface and have to be addressed. Al Khayyat is currently developing many projects, and is feeling the burden of rising construction costs. By Al Khayyat’s estimates, prices of construction materials have increased by as much as 5-10% in the last twelve months.
Qatar has set its sights beyond the staging of the World Cup, ensuring the assets it has built over the next decade will have productive use beyond the event. "The infrastructure that will be put in place over the next few years, will accommodate the expected influx of tourists and new expatriate workers as Qatar’s economy continues to grow. The stadiums are already being earmarked for use by local clubs and tournaments as well as regional sporting events,” explained Al Khayyat.
Doha certainly has the liquidity and financial might to make its ambitions happen. And the private sector will also have a role to play in contributing to the future growth of Qatar.
++ About Khayyat Contracting and Trading (KCT) - KCT is a general construction company which has prominently emerged as a key construction contractor in Qatar with visionary leadership and highly experienced management. Its primary mission is to translate its vast professional expertise into construction landmarks within the potential of Qatari emerging markets by providing the highest level of integrity, innovative solutions, and continuous client support.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Tilal City, Sharjah
Tilal Properties, the new joint venture between Sharjah Asset Management and Eskan Real Estate Development, launched Tilal City, a mixed-use community with a total cost of Dhs 2 billion and an area of 25 million square feet.
Attended by His Excellency Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Tilal Properties, as well as more than 300 VIP guests, the exclusive launch event in Sharjah’s Al Jawaher Convention Center offered attendees the opportunity to view the plans for the new sustainable, mixed-use community and register their interest in purchasing land plots for development.
Speaking at the event, HE Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi said that Tilal Properties, through the launch of its new city, seeks “to keep pace with the intellectual and urban development witnessed by Sharjah.”
He clarified that “Tilal City is one of a series of projects that will be implemented by Tilal Properties” and it will allow UAE residents to buy properties on a 100-year leasehold basis, according to the laws regulating Sharjah’s property market.
The Sharjah Executive Council has recently issued Resolution No. 26 of 2014, which, for the first time, allows foreign investors the right to own properties in Sharjah for up to 100 years. This resolution is expected to stimulate investment in the Emirate.
Pointing to the remarkable development witnessed by Sharjah in the real estate market, the Chairman of Tilal Properties said: “We all realize the importance of the real estate sector, which greatly contributes to the GDP and economic growth in general.”
He added: “Through Tilal City, we aspire to serve the real estate requirements of the Emirate and benefit all segments of the society. We also aspire to add this integrated model city to Sharjah’s tourist destinations.”
For his part, Khalifa Al Shaibani, Director General of Tilal Properties, said: “This development really sets Sharjah up as a destination for investors and prospective residents. We are building a new community that is of high-quality and of a modern design.”
He indicated that Tilal City would occupy a total area of 25 million square feet, including 13 million square feet for sale and 12 million square feet for public facilities, roads and parks.
The project, according to Al Shaibani, will comprise 1800 land plots. Split into five zones, it will provide high-quality, affordable housing for 65,000 residents in apartments, villas and townhouses. The construction of the infrastructure is well under way and will be complete in the first three zones by December 2016. Tilal City will also include commercial, office and retail space as well as multi-use community facilities, schools, mosques and landscaped open areas.
The brand new city is strategically located on Emirates Road, close to the Al Dhaid interchange, just 10 kilometers from Sharjah’s International Airport and within convenient commuting distance to nearby Emirates.
Attended by His Excellency Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Tilal Properties, as well as more than 300 VIP guests, the exclusive launch event in Sharjah’s Al Jawaher Convention Center offered attendees the opportunity to view the plans for the new sustainable, mixed-use community and register their interest in purchasing land plots for development.
Speaking at the event, HE Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi said that Tilal Properties, through the launch of its new city, seeks “to keep pace with the intellectual and urban development witnessed by Sharjah.”
He clarified that “Tilal City is one of a series of projects that will be implemented by Tilal Properties” and it will allow UAE residents to buy properties on a 100-year leasehold basis, according to the laws regulating Sharjah’s property market.
The Sharjah Executive Council has recently issued Resolution No. 26 of 2014, which, for the first time, allows foreign investors the right to own properties in Sharjah for up to 100 years. This resolution is expected to stimulate investment in the Emirate.
Pointing to the remarkable development witnessed by Sharjah in the real estate market, the Chairman of Tilal Properties said: “We all realize the importance of the real estate sector, which greatly contributes to the GDP and economic growth in general.”
He added: “Through Tilal City, we aspire to serve the real estate requirements of the Emirate and benefit all segments of the society. We also aspire to add this integrated model city to Sharjah’s tourist destinations.”
For his part, Khalifa Al Shaibani, Director General of Tilal Properties, said: “This development really sets Sharjah up as a destination for investors and prospective residents. We are building a new community that is of high-quality and of a modern design.”
He indicated that Tilal City would occupy a total area of 25 million square feet, including 13 million square feet for sale and 12 million square feet for public facilities, roads and parks.
The project, according to Al Shaibani, will comprise 1800 land plots. Split into five zones, it will provide high-quality, affordable housing for 65,000 residents in apartments, villas and townhouses. The construction of the infrastructure is well under way and will be complete in the first three zones by December 2016. Tilal City will also include commercial, office and retail space as well as multi-use community facilities, schools, mosques and landscaped open areas.
The brand new city is strategically located on Emirates Road, close to the Al Dhaid interchange, just 10 kilometers from Sharjah’s International Airport and within convenient commuting distance to nearby Emirates.
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Select Group's Marina Gate II Achieves Record Sales
Following the grand success of the residences at the Marina Gate Tower I earlier this year, Select Group’s launch of Marina Gate II reflected the Dubai property market’s positive sentiment following a sellout within the first four hours of its sales launch.
The first phase of the Marina Gate II sales roll-out consisted of 180 units. The remaining units are scheduled for release during a series of planned roadshows across the GCC, North Africa, Europe and the Far East.
Located in the city’s most prized master development, Dubai Marina, Marina Gate II is one of three luxury residence towers within the master project. Offering breathtaking views of the Dubai Marina from across its 64 floors, Marina Gate II features 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments along with a signature collection of Marina Villas and Penthouses.
“Following the phenomenal reception of Tower I, we did have an extensive waiting list of pre-registered buyers anticipating this launch. However the on ground response that we experienced exceeded our projections. A very large percentage of our Tower I client base comes from across the GCC, North Africa, Europe and the Far East, which is where we intend to hold our international sales events for the remaining units from Marina Gate II to cater to their respective interests,” said Rahail Aslam, CEO of Select Group
“This is an interesting time for the Dubai real estate market wherein customers are more discerning about quality, location and developer reputation. And the launch response to Marina Gate II demonstrates how there is always a strong market demand for quality and reliability.” He added.
++ Select Group is one of the largest private developers in the UAE that has lived up to a reputation of quality, reliability and consistency since 2002. The group has delivered eight projects with an additional four underway within Dubai Marina and boasts an impeccable track record of delivery across all its developments. The Group has recently completed an award winning development in the United Kingdom and holds an unwavering reputation across the region for successful projects like 'No.9', 'West Avenue' and 'Marina Gate.'
The first phase of the Marina Gate II sales roll-out consisted of 180 units. The remaining units are scheduled for release during a series of planned roadshows across the GCC, North Africa, Europe and the Far East.
Located in the city’s most prized master development, Dubai Marina, Marina Gate II is one of three luxury residence towers within the master project. Offering breathtaking views of the Dubai Marina from across its 64 floors, Marina Gate II features 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments along with a signature collection of Marina Villas and Penthouses.
“Following the phenomenal reception of Tower I, we did have an extensive waiting list of pre-registered buyers anticipating this launch. However the on ground response that we experienced exceeded our projections. A very large percentage of our Tower I client base comes from across the GCC, North Africa, Europe and the Far East, which is where we intend to hold our international sales events for the remaining units from Marina Gate II to cater to their respective interests,” said Rahail Aslam, CEO of Select Group
“This is an interesting time for the Dubai real estate market wherein customers are more discerning about quality, location and developer reputation. And the launch response to Marina Gate II demonstrates how there is always a strong market demand for quality and reliability.” He added.
++ Select Group is one of the largest private developers in the UAE that has lived up to a reputation of quality, reliability and consistency since 2002. The group has delivered eight projects with an additional four underway within Dubai Marina and boasts an impeccable track record of delivery across all its developments. The Group has recently completed an award winning development in the United Kingdom and holds an unwavering reputation across the region for successful projects like 'No.9', 'West Avenue' and 'Marina Gate.'
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