Buying an apartment is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. Whether it’s your first home or an investment, you want to be sure you’re putting your money in the right place. In Bangladesh, the real estate market has grown rapidly, but that also means buyers need to be more informed than ever.
Here are 10 important things you should check before making that purchase:
Developer Reputation
Start with researching the developer. Have they completed previous projects on time? Are there complaints or legal issues? A good track record means better chances of quality construction and timely handover. You can even visit some of their older buildings to see how well they’ve aged.
Project Approval and Legal Documents
Always verify the legal status of the property. That includes checking for:
- RAJUK approval (if in Dhaka)
- Land ownership documents
- Building permit
- Deed of agreement
It’s best to have a legal expert look over these documents to avoid future trouble.
Location and Neighborhood
The location of your apartment isn’t just about convenience; it also affects your property’s value over time. Look for places with good road access, nearby markets, schools, hospitals, and low crime rates. Visit at different times of the day to get a real feel of the area.
Apartment Size and Layout
Square footage matters, but so does layout. A well-designed 1,200 sqft apartment can feel more spacious than a poorly designed 1,400 sqft one. Pay attention to room sizes, kitchen placement, and natural light.
Amenities and Facilities
Modern apartments often come with features like elevators, generators, parking, security guards, and sometimes even rooftop gardens or gyms. Make sure these are not just promised on paper but actually included in the handover agreement.
Construction Quality
This can be hard to judge, especially if the building is still under construction. But you can still ask about materials used, visit the site, and speak to current residents (if it’s a completed project). Look for signs like cracks, uneven walls, or poor plumbing.
Utility Connections
Make sure the apartment has legal connections for electricity, water, and gas. Illegal or temporary connections can cause headaches later. Also ask about backup power options like generators or solar panels.
Maintenance and Service Charges
Ask how much the monthly maintenance cost is and what it covers. Some buildings charge higher fees but include security, cleaning, lift maintenance, and generator fuel. Make sure you know what you’re signing up for.
Future Development Around the Area
A quiet neighborhood today might become noisy if a commercial complex pops up next door in a few years. Ask about zoning laws or any planned infrastructure developments in the area that could affect your lifestyle or property value.
Resale Value and Rental Potential
Even if you’re buying to live in it now, think long term. Would it be easy to sell or rent out in the future? Apartments near universities, business hubs, or major roads generally have better resale and rental prospects.