Buying Strategies: Knowing When a Deal is Too Good to be True

After years of building YallaValue and reviewing thousands of Dubai property records, one pattern has stood out more than any other: if a deal looks unbelievable, there’s usually a reason. Dubai’s major property portals are incredibly useful, but they’re also filled with misleading listings that can confuse even experienced buyers. I’ve learned to spot the red flags quickly—and it’s something every buyer should feel confident doing.

One of the most common tricks is the “bait price.” I’ve seen countless listings promoted at impossibly low figures designed purely to make you call. The moment you do, the agent casually mentions that the property has just been sold, then swiftly pushes you toward something more expensive. These fake prices clutter the market and make it harder for genuine buyers to understand what homes in a particular community are actually worth.

But even when the price itself isn’t fake, the listing can still hide surprises. I’ve come across homes where the description conveniently leaves out crucial details—a blocked view, a noisy road, or a floor plan that feels nothing like the photos. Sometimes the photos are taken with lenses that stretch the rooms. Other times, the listing recycles photos from an entirely different unit. On the surface, the price seems accurate, but the reality on-site is something else entirely.

Size discrepancies are another major issue in Dubai’s marketplace. It’s surprisingly common to see properties advertised with inflated square footage. A buyer might think they’re getting a great deal because the price per square foot looks low, only to discover later that the true size is far smaller. When you’re planning your mortgage assumptions or using a UAE mortgage calculator, even a small size difference can completely change the numbers.

This is why I built YallaValue in the first place. Before committing to any purchase—especially in a market where listings are inconsistent—you need some form of independent verification. Getting a valuation report helps you see whether the price, size, and property details make sense for the area. Even at the bare minimum, checking the free YallaValue estimate can give you instant clarity on whether a listing fits the market or if something feels off.

I always tell buyers: verify with data before trusting your instincts. Whether you're exploring options that might support a UAE golden visa in the future or considering a commercial unit where accurate measurements matter even more, the principle is the same. A reliable valuation safeguards you from surprises and helps you walk into negotiations with confidence.

A deal that’s too good to be true usually is—but with the right tools, you’ll spot the truth long before you waste your time.