Capital Zone

mortgage broker

First Time Home Buyers

Discover the 5 Steps for First Time Home Buyers in Dubai

There is no escaping the truth: The process of how to buy a house is complex and can be overwhelming, especially for first-time home buyers. You can simplify the process of purchasing property in Dubai and ensure smooth sailing by taking the time to research answers to big questions as well as planning ahead. Step 1: Assess your finances As a first-time homebuyer, you’ll get to know the procedure inside and out by the end of the home-buying process. So, we recommend that the earlier you can wrap your head around your finances, the better. Speak to a broker Mortgage brokers work to find the correct mortgage with rates to suit your budget. They can show first-time homebuyers their best options. Their expert knowledge of the housing market means they are able to identify the best lenders and mortgage deals out there for first-time homebuyers. Understand all fees involved The real estate market in Dubai has one of the most robust regulations set in place to protect first-time homebuyers and sellers. This is why there are a number of upfront fees for purchasing properties in Dubai. These are payable by the buyer as well as the cost of the property. These upfront fees for buying properties in Dubai can differ depending on the type of real estate (ready or off-plan) and who the buyer purchases from (a developer or a private seller). As a first-time buyer of property in Dubai, this can be daunting, so make sure that you have the information to hand when looking to buy a home. Step 2: List your ideal property’s features A dream home, for a first-time homebuyer, is more about fulfilling wishes than meeting needs. So, when purchasing property in Dubai, don’t be afraid to make a sizable wish list. Rank each of these features in order of importance. While it’s unlikely that a first-time homebuyer will find a home that will check off every single box on this list, this exercise will help you focus on properties that work for all of you. Number of bedrooms One big thing to consider when purchasing property in Dubai is figuring out how many bedrooms you truly need. Buying a home that is too small will leave you constantly trying to configure the space in order to make it work for you. In the same vein, buying a property that is too large will allow you to spread out but will clock up large costs. Garden If mowing the lawn and trimming trees aren’t your idea of weekend fun and you don’t have funds for a garden service, steer clear of large, high-maintenance homes with large plots. A smaller yard will cost the first-time homebuyer less to secure and will attract lower rates and utility payments. Type of property Residential properties come in a number of different styles. The right one really depends on how much space you need, your budget, and your preferences for upkeep and maintenance. Town houses If you are looking to avoid difficult and expensive single-home issues such as security and the maintenance of large gardens, then buying a townhouse could be the right call for you. However, remember that buying a townhouse is more complicated than buying a stand-alone home, as the future value of your property will depend not only on its individual location and condition but also on how well the development as a whole is managed. Apartment Apartments are often a better option for first-time homebuyers because of their affordability. Apartments are also easier to rent out because they tend to appeal to younger people. Another excellent advantage of investing in an apartment is that these properties require less hands-on maintenance. An apartment may be a cheaper option for a first-time homebuyer as opposed to a free-standing home; however, the fees may increase over a period of time, especially if you have amenities in your building such as a gym, concierge, or heated swimming pool. Villas Villas in Dubai range in size from around 1,500 square feet up to 46,000 square feet. They are in gated communities, which means that the villas are safe, secure, and often in close-knit communities. While villa communities in Dubai can be centrally located, they usually have a calmer atmosphere than the glittering high-rise developments. They are set away from the busy highways and the air pollution that goes with them. This means that there is less noise, less hassle, and a peaceful living experience, something that first-time homebuyers often crave. For first-time homebuyers, Dubai villa communities can offer the perfect setting for private and secure living. When you purchase a villa, you’ll benefit from having your own space where you can create your own private oasis. These villas are the reason why people purchase property in Dubai. Investigate potential areas  As a first-time home buyer, you must remember that when you buy a home, you are also buying into the neighborhood. Make sure it suits your lifestyle. That’s why it’s important to identify the wants and needs you have for your home and its location before making the commitment to home ownership. Finding your real estate agent It is wise for first-time homebuyers to establish which estate agents are active in the areas that they are looking at. They will also have a good idea of market-related property values for those who are interested in buying a home. When you purchase property in Dubai, the reputation of the real estate agent is important. A real estate agent’s knowledge of the homebuying process and the local market is key. You will get an idea of the agent’s competencies by asking a few key questions, like the length of time they have been in the industry and questions about the law pertaining to property transactions. Speak to your broker Before you engage the services of a real estate agent, make sure that you contact the Capital Zone team to see how much you can afford to spend. Ask for recommendations Ask your friends – as well

Discover the 5 Steps for First Time Home Buyers in Dubai Read More »

UAE off Plan Property

How to choose the right developer for UAE off-Plan Property

Investing in off-plan properties in the UAE may be a terrific way to break into the real estate market or diversify your portfolio. Yet, considering all the developers providing off-plan properties, deciding which one to select can be tough. Here are some things to think about while choosing a developer for UAE off-plan property: Reputation and track record Before investing, it is essential to look into the developer’s reputation and track record. Check for reviews and feedback from former clients, in addition to their industry expertise. A developer with a solid reputation and a track record of success is more likely to keep their commitments and execute the job on schedule. Construction quality Be certain that the developer has a record for employing high-quality materials and building procedures. Examine the developer’s portfolio and prior projects to evaluate whether they satisfy your quality criteria. Location An important thing to think about is the off-plan property’s location. Pick a developer who has a proven track record of identifying great locations for their projects, such as those in expanding areas with local infrastructure, transportation, and amenities. Financing options Look to see whether the developer has flexible payment plans and financing solutions that meet your requirements. Examine the developer’s down payment, payment timeline, and service charges. Transparency Pick a good developer that is open and honest in their operations and communication. Seek for developers that give clear and simple information about project progress, payment arrangements, and other critical data. After-sales services After-sales services such as maintenance, property management, and resale support should be provided by the right developer. This demonstrates that the developer is dedicated to ensuring that their clients are happy with their investment and will give assistance even after the transaction is finished. In conclusion, if you pick the correct developer, buying off-the-plan real estate in the UAE may be a profitable investment. To make sure that your investment is risk-free, lucrative, and secure, take into account these considerations while choosing the correct developer. Related Articles:1. New Residential Projects in Dubai2. How to choose the right developer for UAE off Plan Property Stay tuned for more fascinating insights on UAE Mortgage trends:Website | Linkedin | Instagram | Facebook 

How to choose the right developer for UAE off-Plan Property Read More »

Buying a Property

Myths Regarding Buying a Property and Getting a Mortgage in the UAE

Real estate in Dubai is booming. Whether you are looking to buy a property for yourself or as an investment, buying in Dubai is a great idea. Ask any mortgage consultant in Dubai and they’ll tell you the city has a lot going for it. There are a lot of misconceptions about buying property in Dubai. We asked our expert team to share the misinformation they come across the most when talking to customers. Here we’ll debunk some of those myths for you. You’ll need a large deposit You will need a deposit to get a UAE mortgage. How much you can borrow depends on whether you are looking to purchase as a resident or non-resident; expat or UAE national. It will also depend on your liabilities and income. If you are an expat and the property value is under AED 5 million, you’ll need a 20% deposit. If you’re a UAE national, you’ll need a 15% deposit. If the property value is over AED 5 million and you’re an expat, you’ll need a 30% deposit or 25% as a UAE national. Mortgage Consultant and Real Estate Agent fees are high It’s true that there are fees involved in buying a new home in Dubai. If you use a mortgage broker, they will typically charge you between AED 2,000 and AED 5,000. With Capital Zone You’ll be assigned your own expert mortgage consultant and they will do all the heavy lifting for you. There are other fees associated with buying a home. These fees include: Some banks will allow you to add a portion of the fees to the mortgage loan amount you want to borrow. Using a mortgage calculator in Dubai will help you get an understanding of how much you could borrow. Adding the cost of the fees to your mortgage means you’ll borrow more over a longer period of time, but the upfront cost of your new home will be lower. Buying a property in Dubai is more expensive than renting Untrue. Many expats stay in Dubai for a few years, but some choose to make it their forever home. Buying is a longer commitment to a property than renting a home but if you are planning on staying in the UAE as a long-term resident, then buying could work out to be more cost-effective. It is true you will need a deposit and have fees to pay upfront. But when you own your home, the money you pay towards it every month is paying off your mortgage. When you rent, that money is going to someone else. If you’re still not convinced, why not use our online Mortgage Calculator? This will help give you an idea of what a monthly mortgage repayment for you would look like. It’s free to use and takes less than two minutes. Your bank will give you the best mortgage deal This one is a very common misconception and it’s easy to see why it’s tempting to automatically make your application for a UAE mortgage with your bank. After all, you already have a relationship with them, an existing account and you likely trust them. However, there are hundreds of mortgage products out there and your bank might not necessarily have the best deal or best rate for you, so don’t be scared to shop around. Researching your options will take time, but don’t worry, let us do it for you. Capital Zone has mortgage products available from all the UAE banks so we will be able to get you the best deal for you and your circumstances. You need a perfect credit score You don’t need a perfect credit score to be accepted for a mortgage, but it will need to be healthy. Make sure your bills are always paid on time and try to reduce your credit card debt and existing personal loans. If you are serious about buying a home, now is not the time to be increasing your credit card spend. In fact you should make sure that you don’t spend more than 30% of your credit card limit. A lower credit score will not automatically prevent you from obtaining a mortgage; a higher score may get you more preferential interest rates on your mortgage. You can check your credit score in the UAE with the AECB (Al Etihad Credit Bureau). Getting a mortgage in the UAE does not need to be stressful. With the right information and a good understanding of the costs involved, you can make an informed decision. Related Articles:1. Five Reasons To Work With a Mortgage Specialist2. How to quickly sell your property in Dubai

Myths Regarding Buying a Property and Getting a Mortgage in the UAE Read More »

Non Residents to Buy Property

Options Available for Non Residents to Buy Property in the UAE

If you’re a non-resident looking to buy property in the UAE, our Non-Resident Investment Guide will give you all the information you need to know before you start your property search. The good news for investors is that there are several options available for a non-resident to get a mortgage in the UAE and take advantage of the fantastic property market. Home loans are available to investors in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and possibly the Northern Emirates. There are different levels of lending or loan-to-value available depending on the applicants profile and what documents they can provide. 50% LTV – Non-Resident Loan for Property If you are a non-resident wanting to get a mortgage in the UAE, the easiest way to do this would be at 50% LTV (loan-to-value) In this case, the lending bank will usually require three months of bank statements showing a suitable average sitting balance over three months, as well as a copy of your ID and proof of address in your home country. The balance of funds needs to be – The bank will carry out their calculations to prove affordability and offer a 50% non-resident mortgage based on this. 60%+ LTV mortgage Loans above 50% LTV are available but are more complex to achieve. The banks at this level will carry out more underwriting, and alongside bank statements, they may wish to see, among other requirements: If the applicant has a good profile and can provide these documents, this is a good option, but be prepared for the lenders to carry out a more in-depth review as extended lending is seen as a higher risk. We deal with hundreds of non-resident applications from all countries in the world. Our clients are looking to buy apartments and villas in the UAE and benefit from the tax-free rental yields of anything up to 8%. You can access our mortgage calculator online to discover the best lending rates that are available for non-resident investors in the UAE. Where can I invest in the UAE as a non-resident? Dubai Non-Emiratis, both residents and non-residents, can buy property in any of the freehold areas of Dubai, alongside a couple of leasehold areas. Non-resident investors tend to like to invest in the coastal areas to be near the beach and near major landmarks and experience the holiday lifestyle Dubai offers. Top locations for investment include – Property Uses Overseas property investors have the option of buying a property for a holiday or vacation home, which can be used by friends and family throughout the year, or alternatively, investors can look to earn a tax-free income by leasing the property out. The properties can be leased on a long-term annual agreement, or more investors are looking to increase their ROI (return on investment) by putting the property up for short-term holiday style lets through a management company. Abu Dhabi Non-GCC nationals who are looking to buy in the capital, Abu Dhabi, can look to purchase in designated freehold or leasehold areas. People are drawn to the quieter lifestyle in Abu Dhabi and like the island’s proximity to top tourist attractions and golf courses. The top areas for investment are – Related articles:1. Things to Consider When Purchasing Mortgage Protection Insurance in Dubai2. The 11 Best Family-Friendly Communities in Dubai Stay tuned for more fascinating insights on UAE Mortgage trends:Website | Linkedin | Instagram | Facebook 

Options Available for Non Residents to Buy Property in the UAE Read More »

Buy Non-Luxury Apartments

Top Areas to Buy Non-Luxury Apartments in Dubai

Dubai is a hot spot for real estate investment globally. The Emirate offers a wide range of properties ranging from apartments to villas. What’s more, you don’t have to burn a hole in your wallet to own your dream home in Dubai – there are plenty of affordable options along with luxurious ones. Let’s check out the top areas to buy non-luxury apartments in Dubai.  LIST OF TOP AREAS TO BUY NON-LUXURY APARTMENTS IN DUBAI JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE – JVC Jumeirah Village Circle is the most searched area for buying affordable apartments in Dubai. It was estimated that the average sales price per square foot for apartments in JVC recorded a rise of 12.15% in 2022.  Being a thoughtfully designed community, JVC offers plenty of amenities and lush green spaces, promoting a healthy lifestyle. That said, the area has an ROI of 6.9% and an average sales price of AED 780,000 in 2022.  JVC is among the popular residential clusters in Dubai. Residents of JVC enjoy a vibrant and diverse community with a mix of cultures and nationalities. The area is well-connected to other parts of Dubai, with easy access to major highways and public transportation.  To buy an apartment in JVC, the price of studio apartments has averaged AED 447,000. For 1- and 2-bed apartments in JVC, the average sales price has been AED 723,000 and AED 1,117,000, respectively.  DUBAI SILICON OASIS – DSO Dubai Silicon Oasis is ranked second on the list of top areas to buy affordable apartments in Dubai. With an ROI of 7.52% and an average sales price of AED 636,000, the eco-friendly area is home to various types of properties in the UAE, including apartments and villas.  Apartments in Dubai Silicon Oasis are popular for their modern and spacious architecture. The area also offers shared amenities, including swimming pools, gyms, parks and recreational areas. The community spans an area of 7.2 square kilometres and is located at the intersection of Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai-Al-Ain Road. The sales price for studio apartments in Dubai Silicon Oasis has averaged AED 344,000. The price for 1-bed apartments in the area has averaged AED 480,000 and 2-bed apartments have an average sales price of AED 863,000. JUMEIRAH LAKE TOWERS – JLT Jumeirah Lake Towers ranks third on the list of top areas to buy non-luxury apartments in Dubai. JLT is a popular residential and commercial development located adjacent to Dubai Marina. With an ROI of 7.9% and an average sales price of AED 1,240,000, JLT is a bustling community offering various amenities and convenient access to the Emirate’s top attractions.  The apartments available for sale in JLT come in a variety of sizes, with options to suit every class’s needs. The community is also home to a range of restaurants and retail outlets, making it easy to enjoy a day out without leaving the neighbourhood.  The price of studio apartments in JLT has averaged AED 514,000. While for 1- and 2-bed apartments, the prices have averaged AED 883,000 and AED 1,423,000, respectively.  INTERNATIONAL CITY Ranked fourth on the list of Dubai’s affordable areas to buy apartments, International City is an excellent choice for those seeking a convenient and modern lifestyle. The district covers an area of 8 square kilometres. With an ROI of 9.19% and an average price of AED 358,000, International City is a country-themed cluster of businesses, residences, and tourist attractions.  International City is located in the Al Warsan region of the Emirate, with close proximity to Silicon Oasis, Dubai Safari Park and Academic City. The apartments for sale in International City have different prices. The sales price of studio apartments in International City has averaged AED 230,000. For 1-bed apartments, the price has averaged AED 330,000, and for 2-bed apartments, it is AED 699,000. DUBAI RESIDENCE COMPLEX Ranked fifth on the list of top areas to buy affordable apartments in Dubai, Dubai Residence Complex enjoys a promising location with access to Al AIn Road and Sheikh Zayed Road. The development has an ROI of 6.61% and an average price of AED 568,000.  In addition to libraries, parks, hotels, mosques and healthcare facilities, Dubai Residence Complex offers a wide range of commercial and residential properties for sale. There are many affordable apartments available at Dubai Residence Complex, including studio, 1- and 2-bed apartments.  The sales price for studio apartments in Dubai Residence Complex has averaged AED 313,000. The average prices for 1- and 2-bed apartments are AED 496,000 and AED 653,000, respectively.    Related articles:1. The Importance of a mortgage pre-approval in Dubai’s real estate market2. Things to Consider When Purchasing Mortgage Protection Insurance in Dubai Stay tuned for more fascinating insights on UAE Mortgage trends:Website | Linkedin | Instagram | Facebook 

Top Areas to Buy Non-Luxury Apartments in Dubai Read More »

Purchasing Mortgage Protection Insurance

Things to Consider When Purchasing Mortgage Protection Insurance in Dubai

If you are buying a property in the UAE you will also need to take out mortgage protection insurance. Life insurance and building insurance are mandatory when taking out a mortgage in the UAE. Life insurance or Mortgage Protection insurance as it is sometimes known is there to cover your repayments in case you were to pass away. Building insurance covers the structure of the building. They are two separate products and you will need both. In addition, there are other insurance options you may need or wish to consider. Here is a list of considerations to bear in mind when insuring yourself, your property, and your mortgage. 1) Life insurance is compulsory for anyone taking out a mortgage in the UAE Mortgage protection or life insurance covers your mortgage in the event of your death. This is another cost you will need to factor into the mortgage process. Some banks will ask for you to make the mortgage insurance payment up front, while others will add it to the cost of your monthly repayment, and some may raise the mortgage interest rate you have been offered to cover the cost. Make sure you find out from your lender how your mortgage insurance will be paid for so you can factor in these costs. The cost of your insurance will depend on your age and whether you smoke. The price will rise if you are over 40, and or you are a smoker. As with any other insurance such as health insurance, you will need to disclose any pre-existing health conditions, or else any claim may be denied to your family down the line. 2) If you want to save yourself some money, research the market and take out life insurance independently of the bank your mortgage is with. However, not all banks will accept mortgage insurance from a third party. Banks are within their right to insist you take their mortgage protection. Asking your mortgage broker about mortgage protection or life insurance rules is a good thing to do so you know where you stand. 3) Building insurance is also compulsory. Building insurance covers the structure of your home (this means bricks, concrete, and roofs) against accidental damage, fire, natural disasters, or water damage. Building insurance claims are not calculated on the property purchase price or current market valuation, but rather on what it would cost to rebuild. You can expect to pay 0.02-0.07% of the amount you are insured to annually in building insurance premiums. 4) Contents and personal belongings insurance are not compulsory but you may wish to consider them for your peace of mind. Contents and personal belongings insurance are two different things, though you may find an insurance product that covers them both. Make sure you are aware of the definitions and what is covered in both contents and personal belongings insurance so you are clear on what is covered. Contents insurance covers household items, such as furniture, kitchen appliances, interior decorations, and home electronics, against accidental damage, fire, natural disaster, and theft. The insurance amount should amount to the total value of items in the property, or the amount necessary to replace the items if they were all lost. Personal belongings insurance covers items you would typically take out of your home. It can include watches, jewelry, laptops, and mobile phones. In both the case of contents and personal belongings insurance, shop around to find a great deal. Using a comparison site will help you find the right insurance product at a reasonable cost per month or per year. 5) Are you buying off the plan? If so then you will usually pay a deposit before the completion of the property. Be mindful that there is no formal insurance scheme to protect off-plan buyers. However, your money will be held by a third party and not accessible by the developer before completion. Make sure you buy a property from a reputable developer. If you’re wondering how much you could borrow towards the cost of your new property, use our mortgage calculator. This will give you an idea of how much your monthly mortgage repayments would be. Just remember to factor in your insurance liabilities. Related Articles:1. Moving to Dubai: A guide for expats2. What Impact Does My Credit Score Have on My Mortgage in the UAE

Things to Consider When Purchasing Mortgage Protection Insurance in Dubai Read More »