What document do I need to provide so I can arrange for an agency to market and sell my villa?
You need to provide a proof of identity, usually a passport or Emirates ID, so we know who we are dealing with. The original sales and purchase agreement is required so we can verify with the Dubai Land Department that we are dealing with the bonafide current owner.
If the property is leased, we need the details of the lease agreement including status of outstanding payments and payments for service charges or owners association.
We will consult with you and prepare a letter of engagement containing the details of what you require from us.
If you are located overseas and would like us to represent you, you need to provide a power of attorney which will detail the extent to which you would like our representation in the various facets of marketing and selling your property.
What fees can I expect to pay to have my apartments managed by a professional property manager?
It varies by provider and is anywhere between 3% and 8% of the rental receipts. Some will have an administrative fee as well. Understand what you expect from your property manager as the depth and breadth of services vary greatly. Negotiate a fee structure based on your requirements. Ask for referrals and follow up with some existing clients to get an appreciation of levels of efficiency and professionalism. A competent property manager will provide an assessment, strategy and activity plan designed to harness the true financial potential of your property. Considerations include history, current market factors and risk factors. Whether they be global, regional or local in nature. Depending on the size and complexity of your portfolio, you should have, as a minimum, a rolling five year activity plan which covers pricing and marketing, tenant management and policy, cost management and maintenance schedules.
How can I make my property highly marketable? I am trying to rent out some office space.
Think like a prospective business owner by developing a unique selling proposition (USP). Business owners think of their customers, staff and business associates. Location is critical. It is all about proximity, convenience the prestige that a well-chosen location can bring.
It seems logical, but it is amazing how many times owners do not present their leasable assets in mint condition. A little money spent on painting, repair and general cleaning goes a long way.
Business operators also think about the initial financial burden of office fit outs. Think about how you can entice and retain a long-term tenant by offering to assist with fit-out costs.
Offer financial inducements for longer-term lease contracts. Retaining a responsible long-term tenant in the best way maximizes the potential return on your assets over the long term.
When is the best day to conduct an open house? What preparations do I need to make?
Weekends, particularly Saturdays, are best because potential tenants and buyers are free then. Be prepared to have your house open for as long as possible to get as many people to see your home in a 24 or 48 hour period.
Make sure the outside of the house is neat and tidy and, if required, the paintwork or exterior of the house has been touched up. The garden should be presented in mint condition with lawn areas carefully manicured, trees and shrubs trimmed, patio areas swept clean and outdoor furniture wiped free of dust and dirt. Treat oil stains in parking areas.
The interior of the house must be clean and properly maintained with all defects attended to and be free of any odors. Consider subtle air deodorants to provide a pleasant overall ambience. Make sure that your home is cool, bright and welcoming, and that you have some refreshments available for your guests.
Question of the Week
I want to modify and extend my villa. What are the documents required/procedures to be followed when it comes to making alterations/additions to the original building construction?
You will need to establish that the amendments that you plan on doing do not threaten the structural integrity or safe habitation of your villa by you or by future owners should you decide to sell it one day.
Therefore, you should prepare the architectural and MEP drawings for the proposed concept. These would need to be viewed in conjunction with the architectural and MEP ”as built drawings” by a number of different authorities and regulatory bodies to ensure that the proposed designs will be structurally sound and meet all the required building codes and regulations.
You will need to obtain NOCs from your owners association, the zoning authorities, Civil Defense authorities and, in some instances, your project developer. You may also require NOCs from DEWA regarding electricity and water supply.
If renovations are extensive, you may be required to have the work inspected by the Civil Defense and the Building Department.
In the majority of cases, your architect or contractor can arrange for all approvals on your behalf and I Suggest you engage the professionals.