Secondary Market Surge : Why Ready Homes Are Winning

Abu Dhabi’s real estate landscape is rapidly evolving in 2025 as ready-to-move-in homes dominate investor and buyer preference. According to data, the secondary property market surged 53% year-on-year in Q1, tallying AED 5.04 billion in transactions and now accounting for 11.4% of total real estate activity. This marks a clear shift in buyer behavior and here’s why ready homes are taking center stage. 1. Record Growth in Resale Market Q1 2025 saw resale transactions hitting AED 5.04 billion, up 53% from Q1 2024 Market activity breakdown: Townhouses rose 142% Villa sales climbed 15% (to AED 1.47 billion) Apartment resale increased by 7% (~AED 899 million) In 2024, ready sales climbed 49% year-on-year as demand for completed units increased 2. Why Buyers Prefer Ready Homes Instant Occupancy & Rental Return Buyers can move in or rent out their property immediately—no waiting for delivery dates or construction delays. Transparent Investment Resale properties allow full inspection before purchase, offering clarity and confidence in asset condition—a major advantage over off-plan uncertainties. Supply Constraints A shortage of new supply (only ~2,800 homes delivered in Q1 2025) has driven resale premiums and a 13% rise in average sale prices to AED 16,200 per sqm. 3. Where the Market Is Booming Yas Island led with 266 Q1 transactions totaling AED 755 million, driven by its family-friendly and leisure-centric appeal. Saadiyat Island followed closely, including a standout AED 83 million beachfront villa sale. Other top-performing areas: Al Reem Island (195 deals, AED 275 million) and Al Reef (127 deals, AED 151 million). 4. Current Market Trends Off-plan sales declined by 19% in 2024, while ready-property transactions rose 54%. Rental rates jumped ~20% in 2024, particularly in prime emirate zones like Saadiyat (31%) and Reem (24%) . The rent index launched in 2024 provides transparent pricing—a further boost to the real estate market. 5. Who’s Buying? Investor mix : UAE nationals (21%), Russians (10%), Brits (9%), Indians (8%) with growing interest from UK, US, and GCC buyers. Buyer profiles : Families seeking space, Expats qualifying for Golden Visas, HNWIs pursuing immediate returns through rentals. 6. What to Know as an Investor Segmentation matters : Resale villas and townhouses show strong stability; apartments offer stronger yields but higher competition. Location is key : Prefer Yas, Saadiyat, Reem, and Al Reef for attractiveness and liquidity. Expiry of mortgage financing : Mortgage-backed sales totaled AED 1.7 billion in Q1, with 60% on villas/townhouses showing financial confidence. Golden Visa eligibility : Ready homes simplify golden Visa processes over off-plan units. 7. What Lies Ahead New supply in 2025 : Over 11,900 new homes scheduled (Q2–Q4), but demand may outpace supply. Rental growth & price appreciation : Apartment and villa prices are up ~12% from last year; rental yields and resale premiums expected to hold fast. Global investor inflow : Increased interest from UK, US, and GCC buyers seeking diversified real estate exposure. Final Take The secondary market is no longer secondary it’s the heart of Abu Dhabi’s real estate growth. With ready homes offering immediate value, transparent buying, and strong location-based fundamentals, they present a compelling choice over speculative off-plan properties. For those prioritizing certainty, cash flow, and lifestyle quality, now is the strategic moment to invest in ready homes across Abu Dhabi’s premium communities. How Legacy Living Real Estate Can Help Exclusive access to resale and under-market homes Market analysis on areas like Yas, Saadiyat, Reem, and Al Reef Legal, mortgage, and Golden Visa guidance Post-sale rental marketing and property management Contact us to explore top secondary-market listings with high rental and capital potential. Let’s get you moving literally.