I reject most Dubai projects. Here is my test.
Tajamul Javed, known as TJ, is the founder and CEO of Imperium Signature Homes. For over nine years he has advised investors and end users in Dubai, and every project he recommends passes the same five checks first.
Nine years in this market. I have seen launches sell out in a day, and projects that never delivered.
That experience shaped the five checks. They take the decision away from brochures and launch-day pressure, and put it on delivery records, real rents and real resale prices.
Every check removes projects
A project has to pass all five checks in order. Most fail at least one, which is why TJ sends a handful of projects, not a catalogue.
What TJ looks at, and what fails
These are the questions TJ asks of every project before it reaches a client. You can ask them of any project you are offered.
Developer delivery record
TJ starts with the developer. A good location and a good price mean nothing if the building arrives late or arrives different.
- Past handovers against the promised dates
- Build quality in the developer's completed projects
- The project's escrow registration with the Dubai Land Department
Location and infrastructure plan
Prices follow access. TJ checks what exists around the project today and what is committed, not what a brochure promises.
- Roads, metro, schools and retail within a short drive
- Commute time to the main business districts
- How many new units are launching in the same area
Payment plan
The plan decides your cash flow for the next three to five years. TJ reads it line by line against the price.
- Down payment and each construction-stage percentage
- Any portion due after handover
- Total price against comparable ready units
Real rental demand
TJ prices rent from what tenants pay today in ready buildings nearby, not from a launch projection.
- Current rents for comparable ready units
- Who rents in the area and how quickly units let
- Whether the layout suits those tenants
Exit price
Every purchase ends with a sale. TJ checks who buys this unit from you, and at what price.
- Resale prices for similar units in the area
- How many buyers look for this unit type
- Launch price against today's secondary market
Tell TJ your budget. He will show you the ones that passed.
Five questions, under a minute. Your shortlist arrives on WhatsApp.
Before you pay a booking fee, ask TJ.
Get the projects that passed all five checks for your budget, on WhatsApp.
