First-time homebuyer? Find out if you need a real estate agent

Property advice | 01.05.2025 | Leanne Ruscoe

If you are a first-time property buyer in the UAE, you must be battling the question, “Do I really need a real estate agent?”

Technically, you can definitely proceed with purchasing a property in the UAE without a real estate agent. However, the real question here isn’t about what is possible – it’s about analysing risks, expertise and maximised investment.

When buying a new home, many complexities need to be considered — from understanding the local property laws, handling negotiations and managing paperwork — in all of this, the value of a trusted real estate agent is clear.

How does a real estate agent help first-time buyers in the UAE?

An experienced real estate agent can do much more than just show you homes. They are equipped to represent your interests at every stage.

A real estate agent’s primary roles include -

Look for the best property as per your budget, requirement and aesthetic
Negotiate terms and pricing on your behalf
Manage legal paperwork, including contracts
Ensuring compliance with the UAE’s estate laws thoroughly
Assisting with financial and mortgage options
Protecting you against overpriced listings, legal pitfalls and unreliable developers

Buying a home in the UAE - By yourself vs. with a real estate agent

Steps	Yourself	Agent
Research	Can be time-consuming plus scattered sources	Targeted and informed guidance
Property visits	Need to schedule and attend them yourself	Organises viewings based on buyer’s needs, budget and aesthetics
Evaluating the developer or the project	Rely on online information most of the time	Offer insider information, thorough background checks and reliable feedback
Financing	Self-manage lender applications	Recommends and helps connect with reliable mortgage advisors
Negotiations	Tackle it directly with the seller (A risk of overpaying involved here)	Negotiates the best deals and pricing for the buyer
Legal paperwork	Self-prepare MoU, NOC and ownership documents	Ensures compliance with UAE legalities
DLD registration	Arrange and process this independently	Handles ownership transfer and title deeds

While information on new homes in the UAE can seem easily accessible online, navigating the formalities without professional support can expose you to serious financial risks.

Is it expensive to work with a real estate agent in the UAE?

Working with agents can be an additional cost, however, property investors and buyers need to view this decision in context -

A skilled real estate agent in the UAE, like Benham and Reeves UAE, can negotiate beneficial deals on your behalf, saving you a considerable amount of money
Agents help prevent costly mistakes, including buying overvalued property, mishandling contracts or falling into legal disputes
Experienced real estate agents can save you time, which, if you're an investor or busy professional, is invaluable

Why Benham and Reeves UAE?

Before you jump into listings or virtual tours, take a moment. Wouldn't you want a property expert in your corner? Maybe someone who has navigated multiple transactions just like yours?

At Benham and Reeves UAE, we pride ourselves on being experts to a global clientele. Our team offers assistance to discerning investors and first-time homebuyers with buying, selling, renting and managing homes in the reliable property hubs of Dubai and London.

Reach out to our Dubai office today to discuss your property requirements and let us help grab some of the most exclusive property deals in the UAE & London.

About the Author

Leanne Ruscoe - Head of Middle East & Africa

Leanne is the Head of Middle East & Africa, specializing in UAE residential property with a strong foundation in financial services. She advises international clients on strategic property acquisitions, helping them secure homes across the UAE. Based in Dubai, Leanne works closely with global investors on long-term wealth growth and portfolio diversification through property.

View all posts by Leanne Ruscoe