How My Client Lost a Property Deal by Waiting Just 1 Week – And the Lesson for Every Buyer
How My Client Lost a Deal by Waiting 1 Week (And What You Can Learn)
In Dubai’s fast-paced real estate market, the difference between securing your dream home or investment and losing it can come down to a matter of days—or even hours. I’ve seen it happen more than once, but one particular story stands out. It’s the tale of a serious buyer, a stunning property, and a one-week delay that cost them a golden opportunity.
This blog isn’t just a story—it's a wake-up call for anyone thinking of investing in Dubai real estate for sale and hesitating when it’s time to take action.
The Real Story: A 3-Bedroom in Dubai Marina Gone in a Flash
A few months ago, one of my clients—a well-informed investor from Europe—contacted me about a 3-bedroom waterfront apartment in Dubai Marina. It had just launched, priced competitively at AED 2.3 million, with a flexible 60/40 post-handover payment plan.
We did the virtual tour, reviewed floor plans, analyzed ROI, and even compared it to nearby projects. My client was 95% convinced. He just wanted "a week to think."
Seven days later, he called back, ready to book. But the unit?
Sold out.
Not just that unit—the entire stack of similar apartments in that tier was gone.
What Went Wrong?
It’s easy to blame the fast market—but here’s the real issue:
Hesitation.
In Dubai, desirable properties don’t wait. Especially when:
- A new launch hits the market
- There’s high demand for specific locations (like Dubai Marina, JVC, Dubai Hills)
- The developer offers a strong payment plan
- Inventory is limited
By the time my client was ready to move forward, 20+ other buyers had already made the decision he delayed.
What You Can Learn from This
1. Time Is Money in Real Estate
Dubai’s real estate market moves fast—especially with off-plan projects and new launches. Prices can rise within days of release based on demand.
“You’re not just competing with local buyers. You’re competing with international investors across the globe.”
2. If It Checks the Boxes, Move
My client did his homework. He was financially ready. The location, ROI, and floor plan matched his needs.
The problem? He waited for a “perfect” moment—which never came.
In reality, there’s rarely a perfect time to buy. If the deal is strong and the fundamentals align, secure it.
3. Developers Don’t Hold Units
No matter how serious you are, no reputable developer will “hold” a unit without a booking fee. It’s first come, first served—even for agents.
4. Every Delay Costs More
Even if the same project has more units, prices often increase in tranches. By the time you decide, the next price release may be:
- AED 50K–100K higher
- With stricter payment terms
- In a less desirable location within the building
Ready vs. Off-Plan: It’s the Same Lesson
This isn't just about off-plan units. We’ve seen ready properties sold within hours of listing—especially:
- Villas in The Springs, Mudon, and Arabian Ranches
- 1-bed units in Downtown and Business Bay under AED 1.5M
- Investor apartments with high-yield short-term potential
If you like it, lock it down. Delay = competition + price increase.
Developers Know This Too
Why do you think developers launch phases in limited numbers?
They create urgency intentionally:
- First units at the lowest prices
- Prices rise 5–10% in the next release
- They watch booking speed and adjust accordingly
If you wait until a project gets popular—you’re paying the late-entry premium.
Real Estate Is About Action, Not Just Intention
You don’t have to be impulsive—but in a city like Dubai, you have to be prepared and decisive.
Here’s what I advise my serious buyers:
✅ Know your budget
✅ Pre-select locations and property types
✅ Work with a trusted agent
✅ When the right option comes, be ready to book immediately
How to Protect Yourself from Missing Out
- Get pre-approved (if buying with a mortgage)
- Keep your funds ready for the booking fee
- Ask your agent to pre-filter properties that match your criteria
- Have a checklist of your deal-breakers ready
- Be emotionally prepared to say YES when it feels right
Lost Deals Can Be Avoided
My client later secured another unit in a different tower—at a higher price and with a less attractive view. The ROI worked, but that original deal was still the better one.
He now jokes:
“Next time, don’t let me sleep on it.”
Final Takeaway: Don’t Let the Market Outrun You
If you’re looking at Dubai real estate for sale, remember—the best properties are never available for long. Hesitation can cost you your dream home, an ideal ROI, or tens of thousands in price jumps.
Moral of the Story:
If it ticks all your boxes—act.
Need help spotting the right deal before it’s gone?
Explore top properties at Dubai Real Estate for Sale and speak with an expert from DSX Properties who can help you move smart—and fast.
