Steps for Finding the Perfect Apartment in Abu Dhabi
Relocating to a place such as Abu Dhabi is a huge decision, and even harder a task. And when it comes to moving with your family, the stakes are even higher. Right off the bat, the best scenario is that you have plenty of time to research. However, sometimes situations arise unexpectedly. Consequently, you might be in a hurry to buy an apartment for sale in Abu Dhabi.
Before you start searching for properties online, you should consider finding out a little about how real estate works. Moreover, about how the market and the laws differ in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE.
Let’s get down to the fundamental steps you should take in order to get the ideal place for your family:
Budget Allocation:
Calculate the budget you’re setting aside for the property. If you’re buying off-plan, you can figure out the plans for payment over the course of time. If you’re looking for ready-to-move properties, you’ll have to consider the price along with taxes. Those who are planning on applying for a mortgage, they will need to be a resident of the country. Moreover, their visa should have a minimum of 6 months. Even if the bank approves a loan of 75% of the total price, they’ll need to cover the rest.
Additional costs that you’ll be accruing include 2% for real estate agency fees. This is to transfer the property to your name. The Abu Dhabi Municipality will also charge you 2% as a levy.
You’ll have the option to get a memorandum of understanding if both parties agree to pay half of everything.
Mortgage Requirement:
You’ll need to get mortgage approval from the banks. Each bank has a different set of requirements and takes variable amounts of time to process the application. Estimated time of 5-7 days is required at least for employees.
You’ll need to present the following documents for mortgage approval:
- Employment certification and/or recent salary slip
- Bank statements of at least 6 months
- Copy of your passport with photos and visa page
- Emirates ID
- Copy of current credit card statements
- Proof of address
The Property Location:
To figure out the ideal location of the property, make sure that you consider the needs of your family. You’ll need there to be local transits and retail centers nearby for the family. Children will need to attend schools and Abu Dhabi has a lot of good ones. However, being near a good school can significantly increase the price of the property since that means a better neighborhood.
Similarly, you’ll need to consider the facilities you’ll need nearby. Hospitals and fitness centers, parks and attractions, malls and restaurants, etc. These are some of the things that should be present in close proximity. However, make sure that you’re not compromising on your workplace distance either. It’s easy to imagine being far but difficult when you have to commute on a daily basis.
The emirate is filled with amenities and facilities for families. Moreover, it also has some of the most exciting amusement parks that add to its popularity among the masses.
Visits:
It’s important that you visit the property you’re looking to buy at least 3-4 times before you consider it. There are a number of things that you could be overlooking on the first and second visits. Make sure that you consider the neighborhood and the demographic of the area to ensure privacy and security. Two things are important here:
- You don’t want to rush your decision
- You don’t want to hurt your chances of having a peaceful and luxurious life.
You can ensure both of the above-mentioned things by consulting experts and buyers in the area.
This is also a point where you should consider hiring a professional agent to help you look. You’ll need someone who has a keen eye for property structure and exemplary negotiation skills.
Smart agents can use their experience and knowledge of the market to understand your needs and come up with options. Moreover, they can not only negotiate on your behalf, but they’ll also ensure that the deal is favorable for you. Therefore, hiring a professional won’t be a waste of money. On the contrary, it’ll end up saving more time and capital in the long run.
All in all, you should research well and make sure that you find the best options in UAE real estate.