Magnus & Aksana · Spring 2026

A Place
in Dubai

A private journal of the homes we've stood in, the views we've considered, and the lives we might live behind their walls.

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Properties

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Avg AED / sqft

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Best Net Yield

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Top Score

I · The Selection

The Properties

Each home, considered.

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Quick Add Paste a Bayut listing URL — we'll do the rest.

II · Reference

What We Look For

A reminder, in case the agent's enthusiasm proves contagious.

Orientation

North / North-EastThe shaded side. Best balcony, coolest pool.
EastMorning sun, cool afternoons. Liveable.
South / WestBrutal afternoon sun. Pool unusable in summer.
Always view in afternoonThe sales pitch happens at 10am. Reality is at 4pm.

Letting

DTCM Holiday Home LicenceRequired for legal short-term let.
Building STR PolicyGet it in writing from JOPD, not the agent.
Sweet SpotSTR allowed, but not 100% transient.
STR MathsNet = ~60-70% of gross after mgmt, vacancy, utilities.

Hidden Costs

DLD Fee4% + AED 580 admin.
Agent Fee2% + 5% VAT.
Service ChargesDefault to 18 AED/sqft/yr where unknown. Confirm via Mollak.
ChillerDistrict cooling bills separately. Can be substantial.
Mortgage Reg0.25% of loan + AED 290.

Red Flags

Service Charge ArrearsBuilding badly run; affects resale.
STR SaturationHalf the building Airbnb? Expect noise + wear.
Wear at 1-2 yrsQuality concern about developer or build.
Empty Plot Next DoorYour view may not survive the master plan.