Things to Know Before Buying an Apartment in Dhaka

Nestlandmark
April 6, 2025

Purchasing an apartment is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your life. In a city like Dhaka — where urbanization is booming and the real estate market is constantly evolving — making an informed decision is more important than ever. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, there are crucial factors to consider to avoid costly mistakes and ensure a secure, valuable investment.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential things to know before buying an apartment in Dhaka, covering legal, financial, location, and lifestyle aspects to help you navigate the process confidently.

1. Understand Your Purpose and Budget

Before anything else, define the purpose of your apartment purchase. Are you buying for personal use, rental income, or long-term investment? Your goal will determine:

The location
The type of apartment (e.g., luxury, standard, studio)
Required amenities
Your budget range

Also, factor in:

Registration costs
VAT and taxes
Interior and furnishing expenses
Parking and utility charges

Pro Tip: Always keep a buffer of at least 10–15% beyond the base price for hidden or additional costs.

2. Choose the Right Location

Location is arguably the most crucial factor when buying property in Dhaka. The right location ensures accessibility, better returns, and quality of life.

Top Locations for Apartments in Dhaka:

Gulshan & Banani – Upscale lifestyle, diplomatic zones
Bashundhara R/A – Rapidly growing with top educational & healthcare facilities
Baridhara – Secure, exclusive community
Dhanmondi & Mohammadpur – Established, central areas with strong amenities
Mirpur & Uttara – Emerging middle-income zones with good connectivity

Consider:

Proximity to your workplace or schools
Availability of public transport
Noise levels, traffic, and flood risks

3. Investigate the Developer’s Reputation

Before committing to a project, research the real estate developer thoroughly. Look into:

Their past completed projects
Customer feedback
Delivery timelines
Construction quality
After-sale service

A trusted developer like Nest Landmark Ltd. ensures transparency, timely delivery, and proper legal documentation.

4. Legal Verification is a Must

Legal clarity is critical when buying an apartment in Dhaka. The last thing you want is a property stuck in litigation or with unclear ownership.

Ensure:

The developer has RAJUK approval
Land ownership documents are verified
Mutation and title deeds are valid
Building plan approval is available
Power of Attorney, if applicable, is registered

Hire a property lawyer to review all legal documents before making payments.

5. Inspect the Apartment Layout and Quality

Visit the property if it’s ready or check the layout plan and 3D renders for under-construction projects. Look for:

Space efficiency (avoid awkward corners or wasted areas)
Natural lighting and ventilation
Number of balconies and their direction
Quality of flooring, doors, tiles, fittings

Ask about:

Earthquake resistance design
Fire safety standards
Utility connections (gas, water, electricity)

6. Check Handover Date and Payment Schedule

For under-construction apartments, confirm the expected handover date and ensure it’s mentioned in the agreement.

Also, review the payment schedule:

Is it installment-based?
What’s the initial down payment?
Are there penalties for delays (from either party)?

Make sure all payment terms are clearly documented in the Sale Agreement.

7. Understand the Registration and Additional Costs

The actual price of the apartment is not the final amount you’ll pay. In Dhaka, buyers must account for:

Registration Fee: 1–2%
Stamp Duty: 3%
VAT: Usually 1.5–2%
Gain Tax (for resold property)
Utility connection charges

Ask the developer or your lawyer to provide a cost breakdown to avoid surprises.

8. Look into the Apartment’s Facilities and Management

Modern apartments in Dhaka often come with shared facilities such as:

Parking spaces
Elevators
Rooftop access
Community halls
Generators
24/7 security

Make sure the building has a functional management committee or association responsible for:

Common area maintenance
Staff management (caretaker, security)
Utility bill handling

9. Consider Future Resale or Rental Value

Even if you’re buying for personal use, it’s wise to consider the resale or rental potential of your apartment. Good resale value depends on:

Location
Developer reputation
Condition of the apartment
Facilities and community
Demand in the area

Apartments in Bashundhara R/A and Gulshan, for example, typically offer high rental returns due to demand from expats and professionals.

10. Never Rush the Decision

Buying a home is emotional — but don’t let emotions override logic. Take your time to:

Compare projects
Visit multiple sites
Talk to neighbors and past buyers
Consult legal and financial advisors

Conclusion

Buying an apartment in Dhaka requires thorough research, smart decision-making, and legal awareness. From location and pricing to legal paperwork and developer credibility, every aspect must be evaluated with care.

At Nest Landmark Ltd., we guide buyers through each step of the process, ensuring clarity, security, and value in every investment. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, our properties in Bashundhara, Baridhara, and other prime locations are built to provide elegance, comfort, and peace of mind.