A first-time buyer's guide to purchasing an apartment in Dhaka

Buying your first apartment in Dhaka is exciting and, honestly, a little intimidating. This guide walks you through each stage so nothing catches you by surprise.

1. Fix your real budget Beyond the quoted price, plan for registration costs, utility connections, parking and interior work. A safe rule is to keep 12-15% of the property value aside for these.

2. Verify the land and the realtor Ask for the mutation, khatian, tax receipts and the RAJUK or local authority approved plan. Check how many projects the realtor has actually handed over, and visit at least one of them.

3. Inspect the building, not just the flat Look at the lift capacity, generator backup, water reserve, staircase width and parking movement. These decide how comfortable daily life will be.

4. Read the deed of agreement carefully Payment schedule, delay penalty, specification list and handover date should all be written down. Verbal promises are not enforceable.

5. Register properly Registration must be completed at the sub-registry office with all fees paid. Keep certified copies of every document.

Astha Bari guides buyers through all five stages, and our legal desk reviews documents before you pay a single taka.