Understanding Construction Timeline for Off-plan Project

If you want to invest in Dubai's off-plan projects, you must understand the construction timeline set for off-plan projects. While these projects afford unique opportunities, they also have a timeline and their phases. This article explains the critical stages of the construction project timeline. A typical construction timeline involves Project Launch, Main Contractor Hiring, Ground-breaking, Construction Completion, and Handover.

Construction Timeline Phases

Project Launch

This is where the real estate developer introduces a project in the market. This usually involves very heavy marketing to get the word out about their real estate project. The developer takes sufficient time, say a month or two, to finish planning their launch strategy and get ready for sales. The prices offered at this stage are often good, and many developers offer ideal payment plans during this period, making it a unique opportunity for any investor to get hold of a unit at initial, better prices.

Main Contractor Hiring

Next in line after the launch, is the main contractor hiring. During this phase, developers source a trusted contractor who will take over the construction end of things. The more established the contractor is the better the chances that he will adhere to the project completion timeline. The duration for this recruitment process can be between a few weeks or months, depending on how elaborate a project is or the availability of contractors.

Groundbreaking

After hiring the main contractor, the next phase is the ground-breaking phase. This is where practical work starts on-site. It usually begins by preparing the site, cleaning the land, removing any obstacles, breaking the ground, and laying down foundations. Depending on the site conditions and regulatory approval, this process can also extend for months. Simultaneously, connections for critical infrastructure like water and electricity are also installed during this phase.

Construction Completion

The construction completion phase is the heart of any construction project, this phase has a few sub-stages.

·         Structural Works: This phase includes building walls, floors, roofs, and all structurally related works. Depending on the size and type of project this phase can take a few months to over a year.

·         Interior Finishing: Once the main structure is complete, work will begin on installing windows and doors as well as completing plumbing or wiring tasks. This stage lasts for a few months as well.

During this phase delays can occur due to various factors e.g., weather conditions or supply chain issues, that’s why buyers need to remain flexible, vigilant, and informed throughout this process.

Handover

The third and last step is called handover, in this phase, very thorough inspections are conducted to ascertain that the property is in perfect condition, and holds up to the required standards before ownership can be transferred to its new owners. This process will also take from weeks to months. Once the transfer is completed, new owners have access to their units. There is usually a grace period required in case some minor issues require resolution.

Factors that can affect off-plan property construction timeline

The construction timeline is affected by the following factors:

Developer Reliability: Going with a developer who is well-reputed and has prior records of on-time completions can have a positive effect on construction timelines.

Obtaining Federal and Local Regulatory Approval: Nowadays, a thorough understanding of the latest local regulations enacted by authorities such as the Dubai Land Department, Dubai Municipality, and Dubai Civil Defense, is crucial to ensure this phase is dealt with promptly.

Market Conditions: Changes in market demand or economic conditions could delay/change project scope.

Conclusion:

Dubai real estate investment especially off-plan properties have great ROI, but when approaching a construction project, one should assess the ongoing construction work progress. By understanding the concept behind the key phases of a project such as Project Launch, Main Contractor Hiring, Ground-breaking, Construction Completion, and Handover, you should have a better understanding of how to manage expectations. When investing in Dubai real estate, it is only possible to make the right decision if the reliability of the developer and approvals by governing authorities are taken into consideration.