Buying your first home in Dubai? That’s more than a milestone, it’s a power move. Whether you’re investing, relocating, or laying the foundation for your future, stepping into the resale market can offer incredible value if you know what to look for.

But here’s the truth: Dubai’s resale properties come with their own set of rules, fees, and fine print. It’s not always as polished as it looks in the listing. The good news? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to guess your way through it. This guide was built for first-time buyers like you; those who want clarity, confidence, and control before signing on the dotted line.

1. Resale vs. Off-Plan: What’s Right for You?

In Dubai, off-plan often gets the spotlight. Glossy brochures, flexible payment plans, and the promise of future ROI. But resale properties offer what off-plan can’t: immediacy. You see what you’re buying. You move in now. You dodge delays.

So, which one wins?

If you want a ready-to-move-in home, prefer established communities, or are wary of construction risks, the resale market is your best bet. Just make sure you know the trade-offs: older buildings may require more maintenance, and service charges can be higher.

2. Stick to a Resale Property Checklist

When viewing resale homes in Dubai, it’s easy to get distracted by skyline views or marble finishes. But real estate is more than surface-level shine.

Here’s what should be on your checklist:

• Building age and maintenance history
  
• Air conditioning system (central or chiller-free?)
  
• Any unpaid service charges by the seller
  
• Title deed status
  
• Developer reputation and building management
  
• Parking allocation and amenities condition
  

Dubai’s market is fast-moving. A proper resale property checklist helps you stay grounded and protected.

3. Inspection May Not Be Mandatory, But It’s Smart

Dubai doesn’t require home inspections by law, but don’t let that lull you into skipping it. Hire a professional to assess the unit, especially if it’s older than 10 years.

Look for:

• Water leakage or mold (especially around bathrooms and A/C units)
  
• Structural cracks
  
• Faulty electrical wiring or outdated fittings
  
• Pest issues
  
• Malfunctioning A/C compressors
  

A few hundred dirhams now can save you thousands later.

4. Factor in the Real Costs, Not Just the Price Tag

In Dubai, the asking price is only part of the story. Here’s what many first-time buyers overlook:

• Dubai Land Department (DLD) fee: 4% of the purchase price
  
• Agency commission: Typically 2%
  
• Trustee fee: Around AED 4,000
  
• NOC fee (from the developer): AED 500–5,000, depending on the community
  
• Service charges: Annual fees based on the RERA service charge index
  

These hidden costs in resale homes can catch you off guard if you don’t budget for them.

5. Negotiate with Confidence, Not Hesitation

Unlike off-plan units, resale property prices in Dubai are often negotiable. Use this to your advantage. If the unit needs upgrades, highlight them. If service charges are higher than average, bring it up. And if the property’s been sitting on the market too long, ask why.

The key to negotiating resale prices in Dubai? Data and timing. Know the recent transactions in the building. Understand current buyer demand. And don’t be afraid to walk away.

Desperation is expensive. Strategy is powerful.

6. Partner with Richmond Properties: Dubai’s Resale Experts

This isn’t just about closing a deal. It’s about making the right decision with the right people by your side. At Richmond Properties, we specialize in Dubai’s resale real estate market, guiding first-time buyers through every step, from viewings and valuations to negotiations and title transfer.

What sets us apart?

• In-depth knowledge of every major Dubai community
  
• Transparent advice on real value, not just asking price
  
• Access to vetted resale listings with clean titles
  
• White-glove service that aligns with your lifestyle, budget, and goals
  

We don’t rush you. We educate you. Because buying your first home in Dubai should feel like an achievement, not a gamble.

7. Understand the Financing Landscape

In Dubai, expats can access mortgages from local and international banks. Most lenders require:

• 20% down payment (for properties under AED 5 million)
• Proof of stable income and employment
• Clean credit history
  
• Property valuation approval by the bank
  

For resale, timing is crucial; your mortgage pre-approval should be in place before you start making offers. Otherwise, you risk losing the property to a cash buyer.

Talk to a mortgage broker early. Dubai’s mortgage rules are clear, but they’re not always flexible.

Finally, understand you’re buying in a World-Class Market. Own that. Dubai’s resale market is competitive, diverse, and full of opportunities. But it rewards those who come prepared, not just financially, but mentally. Ask questions. Run the numbers. Walk through with vision, but sign with clarity. And when you’re ready to find the right home with the right people, Richmond Properties will be right there, with experience, transparency, and a strategy built around you.