Emaar Properties has unveiled a pioneering “To Own” scheme aimed at making it easier for customers to purchase property in Dubai. With the innovative “To Own” scheme, Emaar is initially rolling out two programs - “Plan to Own” and “Rent to Own,” both of which will enable customers to own property under more affordable terms within Emaar's world-class master-planned communities in Dubai. The scheme reflects Emaar's commitment to extend further support to customers and be a stronger facilitator of property purchases. Domestic demand for real estate continues to outstrip supply in Dubai. Emaar's new programs build further on the real demand for property, which has now positively shifted towards an end-user market. The “Plan to Own” program will offer the flexibility of paying 25 per cent of the property price after the handover and over five years, making it possible to bridge the current gap due to lower loan to value ratios offered by banks and financial institutions. The “Rent to Own” program facilitates easier property transactions in prestigious residential properties such as those within Downtown Burj Dubai by providing customers the flexibility of living in a property, experiencing the qualitative difference provided by Emaar and make informed purchase decisions. Both leverage on Emaar's market-leading position in the real estate sector as the pioneer of master-planned communities. The programs are aimed at easing the financial position of potential customers by offering them an extended payment plan with annual payments for 5 years. Issam Galadari, chief executive officer, Emaar Properties, said: “Domestic demand is one of the key drivers of Dubai's real estate sector, and through the “To Own” scheme we are leveraging on our market-leading position to support our customers and offer them more access to property purchase.” He added: “The ‘Plan to Own” and “Rent to Own” programs are aimed at further strengthening the property sector by facilitating easier purchases and making property more affordable for our customers. By providing customers the option of securing up to 25 per cent extended payment option, Emaar is stepping in to support our customers. These extended payment plans reflect on our commitment to them.” Under the “Plan to Own” program, Emaar will help potential home-owners and commercial customers who can qualify for a mortgage through a bank to bridge the gap by extending their payment plans. Emaar's extended payment plan of up to 25 per cent of the property value will be paid back by the customer in single annual installments for five years, after moving into their new homes. The first payment will begin only one year after receiving their property. With the “Rent to Own' program, tenants can adjust 100 per cent of the first year's rents as home finance if they decide to purchase the property within ten months of living in the home. It gives them the unique opportunity to rent, move in, assess the quality of the property and make an informed property purchase decision. The property price will remain fixed for a period of one year, and customers will have the option of acquiring the “Plan to Own” program if they decide to buy. During the rent period, tenants will have the first right to buy the property. __
