Latest news with #MerlinRealEstate
Al Etihad
15-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Investors back Abu Dhabi's diversified realty sector as turnkey homes win market favour
16 July 2025 00:45 ISIDORA CIRIC (ABU DHABI)Abu Dhabi's property scene is steadily shifting in favour of ready-to-move-in homes, with buyers increasingly eschewing off-plan purchases for the certainty of completed units. Recent data suggests that sales of completed units now account for the majority of transactions – over 66% – with experts saying the shift is both behavioural and structural, and likely to its latest report on the emirates residential real estate sector, Cavendish Maxwell recorded 900 transactions for ready properties worth Dh2.3 billion, compared with just 400 off-plan deals in Q1 2025. This follows a full-year share of 61.5% for completed units in Q4 2024, according to ValuStrat data from Bachani, Co-Founder of Merlin Real Estate, said that while short-term supply constraints have driven some of this demand, the real change is behavioural - buyers now prize the tangibility and immediacy of turnkey homes over the uncertainty of off-plan projects.'In the short term, the limited availability of completed units has increased demand for ready-to-move-in properties. However, there is also a clear long-term trend emerging, where buyers are increasingly prioritising tangible, completed assets over the uncertainties associated with off-plan purchases,' he told Maxwell data also revealed that, while ready property volumes and values were up compared to the same period last year, off-plan activity dropped both year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter, driven in part by a slowdown in new launches. The average ticket price on ready sales also hit Dh2.5 million – the highest recorded value since Q1 these findings suggest that Abu Dhabi buyers' growing appetite for turnkey homes is not slowing down.'This trend appears to be more than just a temporary response to supply constraints but rather a shift in buyer behaviour that is likely to persist moving forward,' Bachani Laver, Cavendish Maxwell Associate Director - Abu Dhabi, sees the same pattern emerging.'The UAE capital is seeing a notable shift towards the secondary residential market, with sustained demand for ready homes and fewer off-plan project launches compared to previous quarters,' he added that the three-year-high average ticket price on ready homes demonstrates 'encouraging signs of broader price appreciation', a trend he also expects will continue in the coming luxury market isn't losing steam either. Abu Dhabi's ultra-premium residential space is now boosted by global brands, with projects bearing the names of Waldorf Astoria, Brabus and The W entering the market. The capital recorded Dh6.3 billion in luxury property sales in the first four months of 2025, with branded launches increasing fourfold year-on-year, according to Metropolitan Capital Real says the city's less headline-grabbing segments are next in line. He predicts that as the expatriate population grows, 'reasonably priced mid-market properties are likely to receive more focus in the next cycle' as developers try to rebalance their pipelines.'While luxury properties are currently a key driver of growth, there is a strong recognition among developers of the ongoing demand for mid-market housing. The mid-market offers a consistent demand, making it an attractive avenue for sustainable growth,' he balance between showpiece developments and the quieter resilience of the mid-tier is helping the market mature and expand without overheating, and investors are average transaction value in Q1 reached Dh3.7 billion across 1,300 transactions. Apartment prices were up 12.3% on last year, and 4% quarter-on-quarter, and villas 12.5% and 2.4% Maxwell data also revealed that around 11,900 new homes will be delivered in Abu Dhabi by the end of 2025 - on top of the 600 already delivered during Q1 - with another 7,000 in the pipeline for it's not just pricing that's fuelling confidence. Buyers are encouraged by macroeconomic stability, strong project delivery track records, and greater regulatory clarity, all of which are helping the market absorb incoming perception is supported by policy measures ranging from long-term visa schemes to flexible payment plans for property buyers, many of which were introduced in recent years to improve market transparency and attract international interest.'Abu Dhabi's commitment to sustainable development, transparency, and investor-friendly policies further strengthens confidence in its real estate market, positioning it as a prime destination for both regional and international investors,' Bachani it seems like the current momentum is exposing undervalued corners of the market that investors would do well to watch.'At present, the high-end rental market and mixed-use developments are significantly undervalued. Office occupancy rates in Abu Dhabi have exceeded 94%, with city-wide office rents rising by 15% year-on-year,' Bachani ahead to late 2025 and beyond, he predicts that serviced apartments, branded residences and mixed-use hubs will deliver the next wave of returns. 'Investors should also consider opportunities in serviced apartments and integrated mixed-use communities that offer both residential and commercial amenities. These types of developments align with Abu Dhabi's long-term vision for sustainable urban growth and are likely to experience increased demand in the coming years.'
Khaleej Times
23-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai becoming the top legacy hub for African super-rich
As the global wealth landscape continues to evolve, the UAE and particularly Dubai is emerging as more than just a high-yield investment market. For African high networth individuals (HNWIs), the emirate is becoming a destination for long-term wealth preservation, generational planning, and lifestyle anchoring. That's according to the Co-Founder of Merlin Real Estate, Rohit Bachani, who highlighted a significant shift in investor sentiment among African elites. In an interview with Khaleej Times, he said: 'We're witnessing a generational shift in how wealth is being viewed and deployed. African HNWIs are no longer looking at Dubai purely for returns; they're viewing it through the lens of security, continuity, and future-readiness. The emirate's zero capital gains tax, residency incentives, and robust infrastructure make it an ideal ecosystem for legacy planning. We're seeing families making strategic long-term commitments, not just acquiring homes but securing multigenerational assets in a city that offers mobility, safety, and lifestyle. Dubai is fast becoming a cornerstone for legacy creation, not just a satellite asset class.' Dubai's appeal lies in its blend of fiscal advantages and streamlined systems. For African investors diversifying globally, the UAE presents a seamless path with its transparent legal environment, absence of capital gains and inheritance taxes, and 100 per cent foreign ownership across key industries. Bachani explained this clarity stands in stark contrast to traditional markets like London or New York, where regulatory uncertainty, shifting tax regimes, and political volatility create barriers to effective legacy planning. In today's volatile global climate, certainty and stability outweigh mere returns for discerning investors. 'What investors value most today is not just return on capital but certainty of capital. Dubai provides that certainty through policy continuity, a resilient banking system, and a government that actively incentivises investment.' One of Dubai's standout features is its infrastructure for multigenerational wealth planning. As families look at decades ahead, they find that the UAE offers an environment where succession, preservation, and long-term growth are not just possible but encouraged. 'Moreover, Dubai's ecosystem is designed for multigenerational planning. For families thinking 10, 20, or 50 years ahead, the UAE offers a structure that supports preservation, succession, and growth, all in a safe, lifestyle-enhancing environment. That long-term stability is what sets it apart from traditional and often saturated Western markets.' At the same time, the UAE is fostering a deeper economic connection with Africa. Bachani pointed to an increasingly dynamic two-way investment corridor between Dubai and African markets. 'What we're seeing is the solidification of a two-way investment corridor. African investors are entering the Dubai real estate market with increasing confidence, acquiring residential and branded lifestyle assets, while GCC investors are exploring African agriculture through structured land deals and agritech partnerships.' Synergistic relationship with Africa With Dubai's heavy reliance on food imports and Africa's abundance of arable land, this relationship is more than strategic -- it's becoming synergistic. 'With Dubai's reliance on food imports and Africa's land richness, it's a natural complement. This capital flow is no longer emerging; it's accelerating, driven by aligned economic and sustainability goals,' Bachani added. The growing confidence is also reflected in the evolving nature of property investments. Dubai is being embraced not just as a financial opportunity, but as an emotional and strategic base, especially by younger generations. 'Dubai today is being embraced not only as a high-return investment destination but as a parallel home emotionally and strategically. Its neutrality, regulatory transparency, world-class healthcare and education, and family-friendly lifestyle give it a strong advantage. For African families seeking geographic diversification without cultural dissonance, Dubai offers a compelling fit. We're seeing younger generations in particular view the city not just as a luxury hub but as a future-forward urban ecosystem. This isn't just about real estate; it's about anchoring a lifestyle.' Turnkey communities in demand This shift is being felt across the real estate landscape, where demand is growing not just for prime locations, but for turnkey communities and hassle-free investment structures. 'There's a clear gravitation toward residential assets, particularly within master-planned and branded communities that blend luxury with liveability. Developments like Dubai Hills, Creek Harbour, and The Oasis are consistently on the radar. Beyond that, we're observing growing interest in structured investment vehicles such as REITs (Real Estate Investment Trust) and fractional ownership, especially among family offices that value asset diversification without operational burden. Lifestyle is no longer a secondary benefit, it's a key driver,' added Bachani.
Hi Dubai
15-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Survey Reveals 79% of Women in the UAE See Real Estate as a Key Investment, Yet Remain Cautious
A new survey has revealed that while 79 per cent of women in the UAE recognise the benefits of property investment, the majority have yet to take the plunge — largely due to limited access to mentorship, investment platforms, and clear guidance. The findings, released at the launch of a new initiative by UK-based property firm Joseph Mews, highlight growing demand among women for resources that enable long-term financial security through real estate. The survey found that 62.5 per cent of female respondents cited lack of access to mentorship and platforms as a key barrier to investing. Remarkably, 100 per cent agreed that real estate investment is essential for building long-term wealth. Johnny Conran, Managing Partner at Joseph Mews, noted the firm's mission to close this gap by offering tailored education and access to prime UK property opportunities. 'We believe wealth is built through clarity, confidence, and long-term strategy,' he said. Complementing these efforts, Merlin Real Estate has introduced peer-based mentorship networks, matching female clients with experienced investors to build trust and confidence. 'Once they get confident, they not only invest but also become our referral partners,' said co-founder Rohit Bachani. Despite a growing sense of independence — with 67 per cent of women saying they feel confident making investment decisions — 46 per cent still do not understand the difference between income-generating and capital-growth properties. In a broader push for inclusion, real estate companies in the region are also nurturing future female leaders. Property Finder's SheForShe programme, now in its third edition, offers mentorship, e-learning, and workshops designed to advance women's careers in the sector. The message is clear: while interest is high, access and education remain critical to empowering women in the UAE's real estate landscape. News Source: Khaleej Times
Khaleej Times
26-01-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Property buyers to pay higher upfront as banks stop financing DLD, brokerage fees
Property buyers opting for a mortgage will have to shell out the Dubai Land Department (DLD) fee and brokerage fee as part of their upfront fee from next week. Real estate industry executives said that banks were previously financing DLD's four per cent fee and brokers' two per cent fee as part of the total mortgage. "Starting February 1, 2025, UAE banks will no longer finance the four per cent Dubai Land Department (DLD) fees and the two per cent brokerage commission for property buyers seeking mortgages,' said Rohit Bachani, co-founder of Merlin Real Estate. Bachani added that in most mature markets like the UK and USA, banks typically don't fund these fees and only mortgage fixed assets. 'This change is a step towards aligning with international standards. Although there might be an initial hiccup, the market will eventually accept the new standard, and there will be no long-term effect on the mortgage borrowing process. In fact, considering the booming market, it is expected to continue growing,' he said. Farooq Syed, CEO of Springfield Properties, said banks will not allow mortgage DLD and brokerage fees from next week. How will it impact off-plan properties Syed added that this latest move will make off-plan more attractive now because buyers need more money in order to buy secondary market property, especially if they're taking a mortgage. 'Developers coming up with long payment plans will be more attractive options because buyers will need less money upfront. A property buyer will need six per cent extra, which is a lot. More people will opt for off-plan and primary properties as they will have lower down payments and less barriers to entry,' he added. Springfield Properties' CEO expects this will cause a little bit of downward pressure on prices which is required to stabilise and keep the market good. 'This is a move from the government so that the market does not overheat. It is an important step to keep the prices under control,' said Syed. Rohit Bachani added that this decision might initially impact the market as buyers will need to cover these costs upfront, leading to a higher initial payment. 'For instance, on a one Dh1 million deal, this means an additional Dh60,000 down payment,' he added. ALSO READ: Dubai allows property owners on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Jaddaf to convert to freehold ownership
