Real estate agents vs. developers: Who should you buy property from?

Property advice | 25.08.2025 | Benham and Reeves UAE

No matter if you're a first-time buyer or an investor, buying a property remains one of the most important financial decisions of life! But it doesn't just end here. The real dilemma for you could be: Should I buy property through an agent or a developer? Each has its advantages, while a developer can offer you brand-new projects, an agent can come up with a broader range of properties.

To choose between the two often becomes a challenging task and can be time-consuming. But we at
Benham and Reeves value your time and have tried our best to draw out the differences so that you can make the best-informed decision. Let's walk you through:

Who are developers?

Developers are typically companies or people who plan, design, and construct residential or commercial buildings. If you buy directly from a developer, it usually means you're investing in new launches or projects in progress. Developers often provide structured payment plans, giving buyers the flexibility to pay in installments over the construction period.

Pros of buying from developers:

(1) Exclusive discounts: You can avail of early discounts while buying during pre-launch or early-launch phases.

(2) Customisation: Buyers can sometimes have the freedom to choose layouts, finishes, or other design elements.

(3) Brand reputation: Established developers bring trust and quality assurance to the table.

Cons of buying from developers:

(1) Limited options: Buyers are restricted to the project offered by the developer

(2) Delays: Construction timeline may exceed your expectations, leaving you disappointed

(3) Limited negotiations: There is little or no room for price negotiations, especially for popular developments.

Who are real estate agents?

Real estate agents act as intermediaries between buyers and sellers, offering a portfolio of properties from multiple developers as well as resale options. You can get all sorts of advisory services, helping you to walk through complex property markets and secure the best deals.

Pros of using from real estate agents:

(1) More options: Agents give you access to a broader range of properties that fit different budgets and lifestyles.

(2) Local knowledge: You get to make an informed choice as these agents know the neighbourhoods better and have a clear understanding of the market trends.

(3) Better deals: Experienced agents can help you get more favourable prices and terms.

(4) Complete support: From handling paperwork and legalities to managing the property, many agents take care of the hard work, making the process stress-free.

(5) Track records: Agents usually have a strong knowledge of a developer’s past or current track records in completing projects, helping you decide who to choose.

Cons of using from real estate agents

(1) Commission fees: Agents usually charge a commission that is a percentage of the property’s price.

(2) Service quality: Not every agent possesses the same expertise or network, so finding a reliable one involves some time.

Key differences of Real-estate agent v/s developer

Buy property from agent vs developer: Which option is better?

As a real estate investment tip, for someone who is planning to buy a home for the first time, partnering with a real estate agent could be a wise decision. The reason being, you'll get guidance through the overall process, plus, they can handle all the legal documentation and show you a range of properties within your specified budget. So, as a newbie in the market, a trustworthy agent can be a boon!

For investors, buying directly from developers can offer significant benefits. Developers often provide lower prices at launch, flexible payment options, and the chance to customise your home. This is perfect if you want a new, personalised property in a desirable area.

Ultimately, the decision to choose between a developer and an agent comes down to what matters most to you because there is no one universal answer for this. Developers might offer the benefit of new build homes, while real-estate agents provide you the flexibility and a range of choices. The best you can do is research the developer's track record or check your agent's credibility and choose the one that fits your needs!

While you make that choice, companies like Benham and Reeves bring the best of both worlds, providing access to new homes for sale from renowned developers as well as the guidance and support of our local agents. Buying property is not just a transaction but a long-term commitment, and we strive to make that happen!