Profile

Investor: Rajeev Sharma

Origin: India

Goal: Build long-term rental

income from Dubai real estate

Budget: AED 1.8M over 2 years

Scenario A: The One-Time Broker Approach

Rajeev met a broker during a short visit to Dubai. The agent pushed an off-plan project with aggressive marketing and an easy 10/90 post-handover payment plan.

Outcome:

– Purchased 1BR off-plan in a remote DubaiLand project for AED 650k
– Promised ROI: 8% (via rent of AED 52k)
– Actual rent post-handover: AED 36k
– High service charges (AED 17/sqft), resale value flat
– No follow-up after the sale

Result:

– Lost ~AED 80k in opportunity cost and actual net ROI was ~2%
– Investor felt “left alone” post-deal
– Had no clarity on portfolio expansion

Scenario B: The Relationship Consultant Approach

Connected with Rahul Bhattad – who focused on Rajeev’s long-term financial goals and guided him througheducation, planning, and selection.

Strategy & Steps:

1. Initial Investment: Ready 1BR in JVC for AED 750k – Rented for AED 70k/year – Net Yield: ~7.5%
2. Year 2 Investment: Off-plan studio in Dubai South (Expo City) – Launch: AED 500k, resale potential: AED
600-650k
3. Ongoing Support: Helped with property management, portfolio reporting, mortgage planning

Result:

– Total return over 2 years: AED 145k+
– Positive cash flow + capital appreciation
– Built trust -> planning third property + referred 2 family members

Conclusion

“Real estate is not just about what you buy, but who guides you.”
A one-time broker looks at your money.
A real consultant