Buying or selling a home in Dubai can feel like navigating a maze: fast-moving, high stakes, and full of unexpected turns.
That’s where a great real estate agent comes in. The right agent can help you make informed decisions, avoid red flags, and land the deal that’s right for you.
But how do you know if your agent is up for the job?
Whether you’re buying your first apartment, selling a luxury villa, or investing in an off-plan project, here are the 10 key questions you should be asking your real estate agent before getting started.
- How Long Have You Been Working in Real Estate?
In a fast-paced market like Dubai, experience is essential. An agent with solid experience is more likely to understand regional trends, pricing patterns, legislation changes, and how to spot a deal that others might miss.
That doesn’t mean new agents can’t be great, but it’s good to know if you’re working with someone who’s seen the market’s ups and downs.
- What Are Your Areas of Expertise?
Dubai isn’t a one-size-fits-all city. Between sea views, golf estates, and business hubs, each area has its own vibe and market rhythm.
Ask your agent where they specialize. If you’re looking to buy a property in Jumeirah, you don’t want someone who only deals in Downtown. Their knowledge of the area should cover more than just properties. It should include nearby schools, connectivity, lifestyle perks, and upcoming developments.
- Have You Helped Clients in My Target Area Before?
This one is a deal-maker. If your agent has closed deals in the area you’re eyeing, they’re more likely to know what’s available, what’s realistic, and how to negotiate smartly.
Bonuc: They might even know of properties that haven’t hit the listing yet!
- What Kind of Properties Do You Handle?
Are you looking for a cozy studio, a family villa, or a commercial space?
Agents tend to specialize, so make sure yours regularly works with the type of property you’re looking for. Someone focused on off-plan properties may not be the best fit for resale homes, and vice versa.
- Are You RERA Certified?
In Dubai, RERA Certification is a must. It proves that your agent has passed Dubai Real Estate Institute Training and understands the laws, ethics, and processes required to operate legally.
If they don’t have a valid RERA card, that’s a red flag!
- Can You Walk Me Through the Buying/Selling Process?
Your agent should be able to explain the full process, from property search to paperwork. This includes current timelines, required documentation, and updates to visa-related property policies.
For example, investing AED 2 million in real estate may make you eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa. Your agent should be able to explain how that works.
- Can You Help With Financing and Legal Procedures?
A reliable agent isn’t just there to show you listings. Ideally, they should also assist you with:
- Mortgage pre-approvals
- Connecting you to legal experts
- Explaining contracts and government regulations
- Setting realistic expectations around payment schedules and approvals
If they can’t help, they should have a trusted network of partners who can.
- What Are the Other Costs I Should Be Aware Of?
Beyond the sales price, property transactions in Dubai often come with extras like:
- Agency commission (typically 2%)
- DLD (Dubai Land Department) fee
- Service charges
- Mortgage arrangements fees (if applicable)
- Property registration fees
Ask for a full cost breakdown upfront to avoid surprises later.
- What Do You Know About Rental Yields and Capital Appreciation?
If you’re investing rather than buying to live, this is key. Ask about potential rental returns in your desired area, how values have changed in the past few years, and which neighborhoods are showing growth. A good agent should have this data on hand–or at least know where to get it.
- What Makes You (and Your Agency) Stand Out?
This isn’t just about personality. It’s about value. Great agents go beyond listings. Ask what services they provide after the deal, like:
- Property management
- Resale support
- Investment advisory
Also ask: Why should I work with your agency instead of someone else in Dubai? The answer might be the edge you need!
| Generic Real Estate Agent Traits | Standout Real Estate Agent Traits |
| Knows property listings | Knows the right listings for your goal |
| Answers questions when asked | Anticipates questions and explains clearly |
| Talks about prices | Talks about value, ROI, and future growth |
| Focuses only on the transaction | Offers full-services support from scratch to settlement |
| Has limited knowledge of areas | Deep expertise in specific neighborhoods |
| Communicates occasionally | Proactively updates you and stays in touch throughout |
Bounce: Ask for References or Testimonials
Before you commit, ask to speak to past clients. A quick chat with someone they’ve worked with can tell you a lot about how they operate and whether they’re the right fit for you.
Final Tip: Keep Communication Open!
Real estate decisions are a big deal, so don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions or voice your concerns throughout the process of buying or selling a property. A trustworthy agent will be happy to walk you through everything. No pressure, no jargon, no assumptions!