Buying from abroad: a checklist for non-resident buyers
Confirm your home-country rules for sending money abroad, line up your identification and source-of-funds paperwork, and appoint someone you trust to attend viewings and handover.
- Check the rules at home first: Many countries regulate how much money residents can send abroad and for what purpose.
- Prepare identity and source-of-funds documents: Developers, banks and the regulator will ask who you are and where the money comes from.
- Use the right payment channel: Pay by bank transfer to the named escrow account, from an account in your own name where possible.
- Appoint someone you trust: A family member or adviser who can attend viewings, sign for keys and inspect the handover can make remote buying far smoother.
Check the rules at home first
Many countries regulate how much money residents can send abroad and for what purpose. Check the rules that apply to you, such as India's Liberalised Remittance Scheme, with your bank or a qualified adviser before you commit to a payment schedule.
Prepare identity and source-of-funds documents
Developers, banks and the regulator will ask who you are and where the money comes from. Having passports, proof of address and evidence of funds ready speeds everything up and avoids last-minute surprises.
Use the right payment channel
Pay by bank transfer to the named escrow account, from an account in your own name where possible. Avoid cash and third-party payers, and keep every transfer receipt.
Appoint someone you trust
A family member or adviser who can attend viewings, sign for keys and inspect the handover can make remote buying far smoother. If you grant a power of attorney, keep its scope as narrow as it can be.
Plan for handover and afterwards
Think about who will furnish, let or manage the home, how service charges will be paid, and how you will receive notices. A purchase made from abroad still needs a person on the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the single most important takeaway from "Buying from abroad: a checklist for non-resident buyers"?
Confirm your home-country rules for sending money abroad, line up your identification and source-of-funds paperwork, and appoint someone you trust to attend viewings and handover.
Where can I independently verify Dubai project registration, escrow, or transaction records?
Always verify project registration numbers, escrow bank accounts, and historical transaction data directly through the official Dubai Land Department (DLD) portal or the Dubai REST application.
Does SWK Properties provide a written checklist or side-by-side worksheet for this topic?
Yes. Request a tailored consultation from our Sheikh Zayed Road advisory desk (RERA ORN 51517) and your assigned consultant will prepare a written side-by-side comparison in AED and your preferred reference currency.
