Latest news with #ChristopherCina
Mid East Info
12-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Investor Appetite Grows as Dubai Property Sales Jump 23% in April - Middle East Business News and Information
Demand is high, investor confidence is steady, and the appeal of Dubai real estate, both to locals and global buyers, has never been stronger. Dubai Sales Soar in April: Off-Plan Leads, But Ready Homes Make a Strong Comeback Dubai recorded 15,213 property sales transactions in April, reaching a staggering AED 46.18 billion in value, a 23.1% month-over-month increase. While off-plan transactions made up 59% of the market, secondary sales gained ground, climbing to 41%, up from 38% in March. Average price per square foot rose by 2.05% to AED 1,730, further underscoring the city's steady price appreciation amid strong demand. Apartments were the hottest ticket, with studios and one-bedroom units making up over two-thirds of transactions. Meanwhile, villas and townhouses maintained strength, particularly in 4- and 5-bedroom layouts, reflecting a sustained appetite for space and community living. Top-performing communities for apartments included Motor City, Dubai Marina, and Dubai Land, while Dubai Hills Estate, Al Furjan, and Jumeirah Golf Estates led villa sales. 'April was another strong month for Dubai real estate. It's encouraging to see interest coming from both investors and end-users. It's not just about the big numbers; it's about consistent demand across a wide range of communities and property types. Communities like Dubai Hills Estate and Motor City are seeing real traction, which tells us people aren't just buying for investment. They're buying to live, to grow, and to stay,' said Christopher Cina, Director of Sales at Betterhomes Dubai Leasing Market Holds Steady: Strong Tenant Demand Despite Transaction Dip On the leasing front, Dubai recorded 29,423 rental transactions in April. While this was a 23% dip compared to March, tenant interest remained high, reflected in a 1.2% increase in leads at Betterhomes. This shows that while fewer contracts were signed, demand remains healthy and focused. Apartment rentals averaged AED 140,000 annually, with popular communities like Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), and Dubai Land leading the charts for tenant activity. Villas saw even higher interest, averaging AED 296,000 per year, with Tilal Al Ghaf, Dubai Hills Estate, and Jumeirah Village Triangle standing out for their strong family appeal. Townhouses also held their own, with an average lease price of AED 226,800. Damac Hills 2 led the segment with a 2.4% rise in rents, a reflection of growing interest in newer, master-planned communities.
Arabian Business
22-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai real estate market grows 23% in Q1 2025 as villa sales lead surge: Report
Dubai's residential real estate market maintained its growth trajectory in the first quarter of 2025, recording significant increases in both transaction volumes and values, according to new figures released by Betterhomes. Data from the Dubai Land Department (DLD) showed total property sales transactions rose by 23 per cent year-on-year to 42,422 deals during the first three months of the year. The value of these transactions reached AED114 billion, a 29 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024, the report said. Villa sales in Dubai jump 65% as demand for larger homes increases Apartments continued to represent the largest segment by volume, accounting for 32,237 transactions, a 14 per cent rise from the previous year. Villas, however, recorded the strongest growth, with transactions climbing 65 per cent year-on-year to 10,185 deals. The total value of villa sales increased by 56 per cent to AED53.4 billion. The off-plan sector remained a dominant force in the market, making up 59 per cent of all transactions, with 24,942 deals, reflecting a 25 per cent year-on-year increase. However, within the prime property category, a notable shift was observed as off-plan transactions fell by 30 per cent while secondary market prime sales increased by 77 per cent. Betterhomes reported that average selling prices rose by 28 per cent across the market. Villas saw the most significant price movement, with a 92 per cent increase in average selling prices. Mortgage-backed purchases also continued to grow, now comprising 57 per cent of all Betterhomes sales. Christopher Cina, Director of Sales at Betterhomes, said: 'Q1 2025 has reaffirmed Dubai's resilience and continued global appeal, transaction volumes, values, and lead generation all remain high across the business. While we saw a seasonal adjustment after a record-breaking Q4, demand for villas, townhouses, and prime properties continues to grow. What's notable is the shift to more end-users and mortgage-backed buyers, indicating deeper confidence in Dubai as a place to live and invest long-term.' The report revealed a 14 per cent annual rise in buyer enquiries and a 51 per cent increase compared to the last quarter of 2024. Townhouse leasing enquiries in Dubai climb 199% in early 2025 Townhouses experienced the most notable growth in demand, with a 64 per cent quarter-on-quarter increase in buyer leads. Betterhomes also noted a shift in the buyer profile during the first quarter. End-users now represent 50 per cent of the market, a 22 per cent increase from the previous quarter. Mortgage transactions increased by 21 per cent year-on-year and 13 per cent quarter-on-quarter. Jeffrey De Souza, Head of Mortgages at Lomond, said: 'In today's market, the gap between renting and owning has never been narrower. With mortgage rates stabilising and property values on the rise, buyers are seizing the opportunity to turn monthly payments into long-term equity. Ownership in Dubai is a strategic financial move.' In the rental market, Betterhomes recorded a 36 per cent annual increase in tenant leads, driven by population growth and families seeking upgraded accommodation. The townhouse segment saw a 199 per cent rise in leasing enquiries year-on-year, while apartment leads increased by 39 per cent. Tenant demand for Dubai rentals increases 36% in first quarter of 2025 Rupert Simmonds, Director of Leasing at Betterhomes, added: 'With tenants planning to stay in Dubai for longer than ever before, we are witnessing a rise in multi-year rental contracts. These tenants value the ability to lock in their rent for better financial planning, while landlords benefit from reduced turnover and fewer vacancy periods.' Luxury property transactions, particularly in the secondary market, continued to rise. Prime property transactions above AED15 million increased by 44 per cent year-on-year, while secondary market sales in this category climbed 77 per cent. Popular areas included Palm Jumeirah, Emirates Living, and Downtown Dubai. Looking ahead, Property Monitor data indicated 7,848 new residential units were completed in Q1 2025, with a peak of nearly 97,000 units expected in 2026. Off-plan launches continue to support market supply, with significant projects in areas such as Zabeel, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Dubai South.
Khaleej Times
20-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Villa market outshines as Dubai realty posts big Q1 sales surge
Dubai's real estate market kicked off 2025 with remarkable vigour, driven by a 65 per cent surge in villa sales transactions and a 56 per cent increase in their value, according to a report by Betterhomes. The first quarter saw the emirate's property sector maintain the robust momentum from 2024, with total sales transactions rising 23 per cent year-on-year to 42,422, and sales value climbing 29 per cent to Dh114 billion, as per Dubai Land Department (DLD) data. While apartments continued to dominate by volume, villas stole the spotlight. Transactions for villas jumped to 10,185, with their total value reaching Dh53.4 billion, reflecting strong demand despite limited supply. Apartments, meanwhile, saw a steady 14 per cent rise in transactions to 32,237, with their value increasing 12 per cent to Dh60.8 billion. Off-plan sales remained a key driver, accounting for 59 per cent of all transactions, with 24,942 deals marking a 25 per cent year-on-year increase. Louis Harding, CEO of Betterhomes, noted a significant shift in buyer preferences. 'While off-plan sales continue to lead, prime off-plan transactions dropped by 30 per cent, whereas secondary prime sales soared by 77 per cent. This indicates a growing appetite for completed, ready-to-occupy luxury properties,' he said. The trend underscores Dubai's maturing market, with buyers increasingly favoring high-quality, move-in-ready homes. Quarter-on-quarter, the market experienced a seasonal cool-down following a record-breaking Q4 2024, with transaction volumes dipping 10 per cent and values falling three per cent. However, specific segments bucked this trend. Villa sales rose 12 per cent, prime transactions increased 21 per cent, and Betterhomes reported a 51 per cent surge in sales leads, signaling robust buyer interest and pent-up demand. Christopher Cina, director of sales at Betterhomes, commented, 'Q1 2025 reaffirmed Dubai's resilience and global appeal. The shift toward end-users and mortgage-backed buyers reflects deeper confidence in Dubai as a long-term home and investment destination.' The leasing market also thrived, with Betterhomes recording a 49 per cent year-on-year increase in transactions and a 36 per cent jump in tenant leads. Rental prices for apartments and townhouses grew by 14 per cent and 7 per cent, respectively, while villa leasing surged 52 per cent quarter-on-quarter. This spike in demand for larger homes aligns with Dubai's growing family population and evolving lifestyle preferences, as more residents prioritize spacious living environments. Buyer enquiries across all property types reflected strong market confidence. Overall enquiries rose 14 per cent year-on-year and 51 per cent quarter-on-quarter. Apartments saw a 30 per cent increase in leads compared to Q4 2024 and 12 per cent year-on-year. Villas maintained high demand, with enquiries up 38 per cent quarter-on-quarter and 5 per cent year-on-year. Townhouses, however, emerged as a standout, with a 64 per cent surge in enquiries quarter-on-quarter and a 30 per cent rise year-on-year, highlighting their growing popularity among buyers seeking a balance of space and affordability. The sustained investor interest, coupled with Dubai's population growth and appetite for prime and villa properties, has fuelled the market's upward trajectory. However, challenges loom on the horizon. Rising prices and shifting investor sentiment could dampen enthusiasm for speculative off-plan segments. The market's resilience will hinge on timely supply deliveries and broader economic conditions in the second half of 2025. For now, Dubai's real estate sector continues to offer compelling value and global appeal, cementing its status as a premier investment destination. Analysts at Ozon Marketing point to Dubai's unique blend of economic stability, tax advantages, and lifestyle offerings as key drivers of its property market's strength. The emirate's ability to attract high-net-worth individuals and families seeking luxury homes has bolstered demand for villas and prime properties. Additionally, the growing presence of mortgage-backed buyers signals a shift toward long-term investment, further stabilizing the market. Analysts at Kaden Boriss noted that as Dubai's real estate market navigates the delicate balance between growth and sustainability, its performance in Q1 2025 underscores its enduring allure. 'With strong fundamentals and sustained demand across both sales and leasing, the emirate is well-positioned to maintain its upward trajectory, provided supply and economic conditions align,' an analyst said.
Khaleej Times
26-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Ras Al Khaimah real estate transactions surge 25,000% in 7 years
The real estate market in Ras Al Khaimah has grown significantly, with transaction volumes increasing by nearly 250 times or 25,000 per cent over the past seven years, according to the latest data from the Ras Al Khaimah Statistics Centre. The total value of real estate transactions in June 2024 reached Dh2,535,067,291, up from Dh10,113,300 in June 2017. Similarly, mortgage values rose to Dh3,475,928,534 in July 2024, compared to Dh15,836,398 in July 2017, an increase of approximately 21,849 per cent. This reflects growing investor confidence and the emirate's position as a real estate hub. The transaction increase comes as Ras Al Khaimah continues to attract investment through strategic initiatives, including the expansion of Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, significant hospitality and entertainment projects, and a growing focus on sustainable urban development. Christopher Cina, Director of Sales at Betterhomes, told Khaleej Times the surge in transactions is linked to increased development, improved connectivity, and growing demand for beachfront properties. 'The integrated gaming resort is expected to bring 4 million tourists a year to Ras Al Khaimah. Naturally, people prefer beachfront property as well,' he said. He also pointed to the rising number of completed projects and growing market confidence. 'Mortgage activity shows that lenders are taking the market seriously, and more importantly, it indicates that many developments are now complete. The numbers have gone up, and market sentiment has improved because, while there was limited development five years ago, today, there is a significant amount.' Andrei Charapenak, CEO of Major Developers, commented on the market growth: 'Ras Al Khaimah is no longer an emerging player it has established itself as an investment destination. The increase in real estate transactions and mortgage values reflects the emirate's economic development, driven by leadership, infrastructure projects, and demand for residential and commercial spaces.' He added: 'We are seeing a shift in investor sentiment, with luxury, sustainability, and lifestyle integration playing a major role in purchasing decisions. The real estate sector in Ras Al Khaimah is evolving to meet global standards, and new developments are catering to both local and international buyers.'
Mid East Info
21-03-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Betterhomes' Top Buyer Nationalities in 2025: Egyptians, a Rising Force in Dubai's Real Estate
Betterhomes' Top Buyer Nationalities in 2025: Egyptians, a Rising Force in Dubai's Real Estate Dubai's real estate market continues to attract a diverse global audience, with Betterhomes' latest data revealing key shifts in buyer demographics. In 2025, Indian, British, and Italian investors led the way in residential property purchases, followed by buyers from Russia and Pakistan. Notably, Italian buyer activity surged by 22%, while Egyptian investors saw an extraordinary 150% increase compared to 2024. This sharp rise underscores growing international confidence in Dubai's dynamic real estate sector. Beyond these top five nationalities, demand remains strong from buyers across Lebanon, Iran, and other key markets, reaffirming Dubai's status as a premier global investment destination. 'This year, we've seen a clear shift in buyer demographics, with a significant rise in Egyptian and Italian investors. Many of our Egyptian clients are seeking stability amid currency fluctuations, while Italians are drawn to Dubai's tax advantages and luxury lifestyle. It's not just about buying property—it's about securing their future in a globally recognised market' said Christopher Cina, Director of Sales at Betterhomes. In recent years, Dubai has become a top destination for Egyptian investors seeking financial security, high returns, and long-term growth. Several factors are driving this trend: Hedging Against Currency Devaluation – With the Egyptian pound facing depreciation, many investors are turning to Dubai's dollar-pegged real estate market as a safe haven for wealth preservation. High Rental Yields & Capital Growth – Dubai offers some of the highest rental yields in the region, often ranging from 6-8%, along with strong capital appreciation potential in prime locations. Golden Visa & Residency Incentives – Investors purchasing properties worth AED 750,000 ($204,000) or more can qualify for long-term residency, offering greater mobility and business opportunities. Ease of Ownership & Tax Benefits – Unlike some markets, Dubai allows 100% freehold ownership for foreigners and has no property taxes, making it a more investor-friendly environment. Business & Lifestyle Appeal – As a global hub, Dubai attracts Egyptians seeking both investment and lifestyle advantages, from world-class infrastructure to ease of doing business.
