The international property management experience

So in September we packed our bags and off we went to the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. Arriving in Dubai, I was in awe of how they can build these huge structures literally in the desert – the resorts are world class, with the block next door ready to be built on sand.

Whilst we spent a lot of time on the study tour enjoying the culture, including camel riding, visiting sand dunes and the world’s tallest building, and experiencing life in Dubai, we were also lucky enough to see how the real estate industry works in one of the world’s fastest-growing and most luxurious property markets.

I compiled a list of fun facts I learnt in Dubai, including some very interesting real estate facts.

Dubai real estate facts

1) There are 8,000 registered agents in Dubai and 3,000 running illegal agencies

2) If your cheque bounces, you go to jail

3) One per cent of listings are exclusive

4) Buyers pay commission at five per cent

5) The LJ Hooker office in Dubai is in a building with 30 other real estate agents.

Property management facts

1) There is a bond paid directly to the owner – equivalent to five per cent of the annual rent

2) Property managers are paid commission only – they are pretty much only leasing officers

3) No routine inspections are conducted throughout the tenancies

4) If your cheque bounces, you go to jail

5) The tenant pays for any maintenance costing below 500 Dirham (AU$156), otherwise the owner pays.

It was an amazing experience, and to learn a lot about how real estate, in particular property management, works in another country was truly fascinating. The one thing I really took away from the tour – aside from how hot it is in Dubai! – was how important it is to plan for a future and to have goals of where you see yourself in 12 months' or five years' time. 

As Australian property managers, we can learn a lot from property management in other countries like Dubai.