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GULF TIME
Real estate expert Sherouk Youssef emphasized that focusing solely on price when purchasing property is one of the most common mistakes investors make. She explained that the cheapest property is not necessarily the best or most profitable option in the long run, especially amid the rapid developments currently shaping the real estate sector across the region.
She noted that many buyers are attracted to low prices without properly evaluating key factors related to the property, such as location, construction quality, surrounding infrastructure, and the actual demand within the area. This, she explained, can later result in difficulties with resale or weak investment returns.
She added that today’s real estate market has become more mature and competitive, and success is no longer based simply on securing the lowest price, but rather on the ability to assess opportunities in a comprehensive and strategic way. According to her, some projects offered at lower prices may be located far from essential services or lack the elements needed to ensure future value appreciation, while higher-priced properties often achieve stronger growth and more stable returns due to their prime locations and quality developments.
She further explained that location remains the most important factor in determining the strength of a real estate investment. Properties situated near business hubs, transportation networks, service facilities, schools, and commercial areas tend to retain their value and maintain consistent demand for both sales and rentals.
Youssef also stressed the importance of evaluating the developer and reviewing their track record before making a purchase decision. She noted that construction quality, commitment to delivery timelines, and the range of services offered within a project have become essential elements that directly impact a property’s market value and overall demand.
She pointed out that some investors focus only on minimizing the purchase price without considering future costs such as maintenance fees, low occupancy rates, or declining demand, which can ultimately turn what appears to be a good opportunity into a low-return investment.
She confirmed that successful real estate investment depends on a long-term vision and a clear understanding of market trends and residents’ needs, rather than quick decisions based solely on price. She added that a smart investor searches for “value” rather than simply “cheapness,” as the true value of a property becomes evident over time through returns, stability, and growth potential.
She concluded by emphasizing that the real estate sector remains one of the most attractive investment fields, but at the same time requires careful study, planning, and precise decision-making. Achieving the best long-term returns, she said, depends on balancing price with the quality of the asset and its future potential.