Comprehensive FAQ
Welcome to MT Properties' comprehensive guide to frequently asked questions about real estate marketing and investment in Egypt. Here you will find thorough answers to the most common inquiries relevant to buyers, investors, and even real estate professionals. Our goal is to provide reliable and detailed information to empower you to make informed real estate decisions.
Questions about MT Properties and Our Services
What are the main services offered by MT Properties?
MT Properties offers comprehensive real estate marketing solutions in Egypt, including:
- **Real Estate Marketing:** Developing customized strategies to effectively showcase properties and reach target clients, increasing visibility and attracting potential investors.
- **Real Estate Consultations:** Providing comprehensive market analyses, accurate financial evaluations, and free strategic advice to help clients make informed investment decisions and maximize their return on investment.
- **Digital Marketing Solutions:** Enhancing online property presence through targeted marketing campaigns, social media marketing, and search engine optimization.
- **Sales Support:** Full support throughout all stages of the real estate sales process, from negotiation to final agreement, ensuring a smooth and reliable experience for our clients.
In which regions of Egypt does MT Properties market properties?
We cover a wide geographical scope in Egypt, including:
- **Greater Cairo and its Suburbs:** The New Administrative Capital, New Cairo, Tagamoa El Khamis (Fifth Settlement), Tagamoa El Sadis (Sixth Settlement), Mostakbal City, October, Sheikh Zayed City, New Zayed, Shorouk, Obour, New Heliopolis, Nasr City, and Maadi.
- **Coastal Areas:** North Coast, Ain Sokhna, El Alamein, Ras Sedr, and Hurghada.
What types of properties does MT Properties specialize in marketing?
We specialize in marketing a wide range of properties, including:
- Residential properties (apartments, villas, townhouses, twin houses, duplexes).
- Commercial properties (shops, retail units).
- Administrative properties (offices, co-working spaces).
- Medical units (clinics, medical centers).
- Hotel and investment units (hotel apartments, chalets, serviced hotel units).
How does MT Properties help me make an informed real estate investment decision?
We offer free and comprehensive real estate consultations that include:
- Deep market analyses of the latest trends and promising investment opportunities.
- Accurate financial evaluations of potential properties and comparison of expected returns.
- Tailored strategic advice to help you understand the market and make investment decisions that serve your goals and maximize your returns.
Do you provide full support throughout the buying or selling process?
Yes, we provide complete and comprehensive support at all stages of the real estate buying or selling process. This includes:
- Assistance in identifying the best available options in the market.
- Negotiation on your behalf to secure the best terms and prices.
- Providing legal and procedural support to ensure a smooth and reliable transaction, from contract signing to final registration.
What distinguishes MT Properties from other real estate marketing companies?
Our name 'Management True Properties' signifies our steadfast commitment to the core values that guide all our dealings:
- **Integrity:** Absolute transparency and providing accurate, reliable information.
- **Excellence:** We strive to deliver services that exceed our clients' expectations and add real, sustainable value.
- **Commitment:** We fulfill our promises and dedicate our utmost effort to achieving our clients' investment and residential goals.
In addition to our deep understanding of the Egyptian real estate market, strong relationships with all developers, and extensive coverage of key areas and projects.
Common Questions about the Egyptian Real Estate Market and Investment
What are the most promising real estate investment areas in Egypt currently?
Several areas in Egypt are considered promising for real estate investment due to urban expansion and mega-projects, most notably:
- **The New Administrative Capital:** For its major governmental, residential, commercial, and administrative projects, and advanced infrastructure.
- **New Alamein and the North Coast (especially Ras El Hekma):** For investment in coastal and hotel units with increasing tourism returns.
- **New Cairo (especially Tagamoa El Khamis and Mostakbal City):** Due to continued demand for residential, commercial, and administrative units, and availability of services.
- **New Fourth Generation Cities (e.g., New Mansoura and West Assiut):** As smart, planned future cities offering significant growth opportunities.
- **New Zayed and October City:** For their urban expansion and increasing demand for residential and service units.
What types of payment plans are available when buying property in Egypt?
Payment plans in the Egyptian real estate market vary to suit different segments and budgets, mainly including:
- **Cash Payment:** The fastest method and usually allows for significant discounts on the unit price.
- **Direct Installment Plans with the Developer:** The client pays a down payment (percentage varies), then settles the remaining amount in monthly or quarterly installments extending over several years (can reach 10 years or more).
- **Real Estate Financing from Banks (Mortgage):** Based on bank loans with subsidized interest rates (through Central Bank initiatives) or commercial rates, with repayment to the bank over long periods up to 20 or 30 years.
What are the essential documents required to buy property in Egypt?
To legally complete a property purchase in Egypt, the essential documents typically required are:
- Valid national ID card for both buyer and seller, or valid passport for foreigners.
- Original property ownership documents (registered sales contract, or allocation contract from the developer).
- Receipts for utility bill payments (electricity, water, gas) to ensure no outstanding arrears.
- Proof of payment for any due property taxes.
- In case of purchasing from a developer, the original unit contract and an assignment or allocation letter from the developer.
- A real estate disposition certificate from the Real Estate Registration Office.
Can foreigners own real estate in Egypt? What are the procedures?
Yes, foreigners can own real estate in Egypt according to Law No. 230 of 1996, which specifies certain conditions. Procedures generally include:
- Contracting for the property and submitting an application to the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones.
- Obtaining necessary security approvals (often routine procedures).
- Registering the property at the Real Estate Registration Office (Shahr Akary) or the competent authority.
- There are restrictions on the number of properties that can be owned (no more than two properties) and their area, and some areas (such as border regions) may be restricted.
What is the difference between residential, commercial, and administrative properties?
The difference lies in the primary purpose of property use and its specific licenses:
- **Residential Property:** Designed and intended for living and accommodation only (e.g., apartments, villas, duplexes, townhouses, twin houses).
- **Commercial Property:** Designated for commercial activities and public service (e.g., shops in malls or on streets, restaurants, cafes, showrooms).
- **Administrative Property:** Designated for offices, companies, medical clinics, and administrative and professional activities (e.g., offices in administrative towers, clinics in specialized medical centers).
What is the importance of real estate consultations before buying or selling?
Real estate consultations are of paramount importance because they help to:
- **Comprehensive Market Understanding:** Knowing the latest prices, market trends, promising projects, and risk-return analyses.
- **Identifying Best Opportunities:** Assisting the investor or buyer in finding the property that precisely meets their needs, budget, and investment goals.
- **Risk Avoidance:** Identifying any potential legal, financial, or technical issues related to the property or developer.
- **Ensuring Informed Decisions:** Based on accurate information and professional analyses to maximize returns and minimize risks.
What are the steps to buy a new property from a real estate developer?
The basic steps for purchasing a new property from a real estate developer typically include:
- **Research and Exploration:** Identifying the suitable area, project, and developer for your needs and budget.
- **Consultation:** Contacting real estate experts like MT Properties for advice and comparative analyses of projects.
- **Unit Selection:** Choosing the appropriate unit within the project (area, floor, orientation).
- **Paying an Expression of Interest (EOI):** A small amount to reserve the unit and demonstrate serious intent.
- **Signing the Allocation/Preliminary Sales Contract:** An initial agreement with the developer specifying unit details, price, and payment plan.
- **Paying the Down Payment and Installments:** According to the agreed-upon payment plan in the contract.
- **Handover:** Receiving the unit after construction is completed and agreed payments are made.
- **Registration:** Registering the unit at the Real Estate Registration Office or competent authority to ensure legal ownership.
What is the importance of property location and its impact on investment value?
Property location is the most crucial factor in determining its future investment value and its potential for rental or resale. A prime location near essential services (schools, hospitals), main roads, commercial and entertainment centers, and vibrant areas increases the property's attractiveness and its value appreciates steadily over time.
What does 'Compound' mean in the Egyptian real estate market?
A 'Compound' (or gated community) is a fully integrated and fenced residential complex that includes a variety of residential units (apartments, villas, duplexes, townhouses, twin houses) in addition to a complete set of internal services and facilities such as: sports clubs, schools, hospitals, extensive green spaces, commercial centers, and advanced security and guarding systems. It provides a comprehensive and secure living environment.
What do 'Core & Shell', 'Semi-Finished', and 'Fully Finished' mean for property delivery?
These terms refer to the state of finishing in which a property unit is delivered:
- **Core & Shell (الطوب الأحمر):** The unit consists only of the concrete structure and brick walls, with no internal or external finishes. It gives the buyer complete freedom in design and finishing.
- **Semi-Finished (نصف تشطيب):** Includes plastered walls, door and window frames, and basic electrical and plumbing installations, but no paint, flooring, internal/external doors, or sanitary ware.
- **Fully Finished (تشطيب كامل):** The unit is ready for immediate occupancy with all internal and external finishes, including paint, flooring, doors, complete kitchens and bathrooms, and sometimes air conditioning and built-in wardrobes.
What is 'Real Estate Financing' (Mortgage) and how does it work?
Real estate financing (or mortgage) is a long-term loan provided by a bank to a buyer to fund the purchase of a property. The property is mortgaged to the bank as collateral until the loan amount and its interest are fully repaid. It allows the buyer to own the property with a relatively small down payment and pay the rest in installments over many years, facilitating the purchase for a larger segment of clients.
What is 'Rental Yield' and how is it calculated?
Rental yield is the ratio of the expected annual income from renting a property to its original purchase price. It is an important indicator for assessing the feasibility of rental investment.
It is calculated as: **(Gross Annual Rent - Annual Operating Expenses) ÷ (Property Purchase Price + Purchase Costs) × 100%.**
What is 'Maintenance Deposit' and why is it important?
The maintenance deposit is a lump sum amount paid (or in installments) when purchasing a property in compounds or multi-unit buildings. This amount is deposited into a special account for the maintenance and operation of the project. It is used to cover the costs of maintaining common facilities, security, cleaning, landscaping, and management, ensuring the sustainability of quality services in the project over the long term.
What is 'Real Estate Registration' (Shahr Akary) and why is it essential?
Real Estate Registration at the Shahr Akary (Real Estate Registration Office) is the legal procedure that formally transfers property ownership from the seller to the buyer, and this transfer is recorded in government registers. It is a necessary step to protect the buyer's ownership rights and prevent any future disputes regarding property ownership, and is considered the ultimate guarantee of property ownership.
What does 'Off-Plan Property' purchase mean?
Off-plan purchase means buying a property unit before its construction is completed, or in the early stages of construction, based on the designs and engineering plans provided by the developer. This type of purchase typically offers lower prices compared to ready units, and flexible payment plans extending over many years, with the potential for higher capital appreciation upon delivery.
What are the differences between 'Standalone Villa', 'Twin House', and 'Townhouse' ?
These are different types of villas, varying in degree of independence and area:
- **Standalone Villa:** A completely detached residential unit, surrounded by a private garden on all sides, offering the highest degree of privacy.
- **Twin House:** Two adjacent villas sharing only one common wall (the dividing wall), each with a private garden on 3 sides. They offer more privacy than townhouses and less than standalone villas.
- **Townhouse:** A row of attached villas, where each villa shares two side walls with its neighbors. Each villa has a small front and back garden, and they are characterized by a uniform design.
What is the importance of investing in commercial and administrative properties?
Investing in commercial and administrative properties offers several attractive advantages:
- **Higher Rental Yields:** Rental yields for commercial and administrative properties are often higher than residential ones.
- **Capital Appreciation:** Demand for them increases in commercial areas and main arteries, increasing their value over time.
- **Portfolio Diversification:** Helps spread risk and reduce reliance on one type of investment.
- **Long-Term Leases:** Lease agreements for these properties are often long-term, providing stable income.
What do 'Hotel Apartments' or 'Hotel Units' mean?
These are residential units located within a hotel building or tourist complex, offering integrated hotel services to owners and guests (e.g., room cleaning, maintenance, 24/7 security, reception service, laundry, room service, hotel facilities). Owners can reside in them or place them under the management of a hotel company for rental and recurring income.
What are the common risks of real estate investment and how can they be avoided?
Common risks of real estate investment include:
- **Market Fluctuations:** Decrease in property value or difficulty in selling.
- **Construction or Delivery Issues:** Delayed delivery or construction defects.
- **Tenant Challenges:** Non-payment of rent or misuse of property.
- **Legal Issues:** Problems with ownership or permits.
They can be avoided by: thorough research, consultation with trusted experts like MT Properties, dealing with reputable developers, verifying legal documents, and diversifying investments.
What does 'Real Estate Developer' mean and what is their role?
A real estate developer is a company or entity responsible for acquiring land, designing, financing, executing, marketing, and constructing integrated real estate projects (residential, commercial, administrative, recreational). They play a pivotal role in determining project quality, delivery times, payment plans, and providing services and infrastructure.
What is 'Property Tax' in Egypt?
It is an annual tax imposed on built properties (residential, commercial, administrative units) within the Arab Republic of Egypt, with certain legal exemptions (such as a primary residential unit below a certain value). It is paid to the Real Estate Tax Authority and its value is based on the estimated rental value of the property.
How can I evaluate the feasibility of investing in a new real estate project?
To effectively evaluate investment feasibility, several factors should be considered:
- **Project Location:** Its proximity to services and main arteries, and its developmental future.
- **Developer's Reputation:** Their track record, commitment to delivery dates, and construction quality.
- **Payment Plans:** Flexibility of down payments, installments, and annual/delivery payments.
- **Expected Return:** Estimating the expected rental yield or capital appreciation.
- **Comparison:** Conducting a comprehensive comparison with market prices and competing projects in the same area.
- **Specialized Consultations:** Utilizing the expertise of real estate marketing companies like MT Properties.
Important Real Estate and Investment Terms and Abbreviations
What does 'ROI' mean in real estate?
**ROI** stands for **Return On Investment**. It is a metric used to evaluate the efficiency of an investment or compare the efficiency of several different investments, calculated by dividing net profit by the cost of investment. The higher the ROI, the more attractive the investment.
What does 'EOI' mean in the real estate market?
**EOI** stands for **Expression Of Interest**. It is an amount paid by a prospective buyer to a real estate developer to show serious interest in securing a unit in a project that is being launched or not yet released, and is usually refundable.
What does 'BUA' mean in property descriptions?
**BUA** stands for **Built-Up Area**. It is the total covered area of a building, including the area of internal and external walls, roofs, and columns, and differs from the Net Area which does not include wall areas.
What is the difference between 'Gross Area' and 'Net Area' of a unit?
There is a fundamental difference between the two concepts:
- **Gross Area:** Includes the actual area of the unit plus its share of common services and facilities in the building or compound (such as corridors, staircases, elevators, entrance area, garages, etc.).
- **Net Area:** Is the actual usable area within the unit's walls, excluding its share of common areas. It is the area where the owner actually lives.
What does the term 'Handover' mean in real estate?
**Handover** refers to the process of delivering the completed and ready-for-occupancy property unit from the developer to the buyer, after all construction and finishing works are done and contractual conditions are met.
What does the term 'Capital Gain' mean in real estate investment?
**Capital Gain** is the profit an investor makes from selling a property at a higher price than its original purchase price. This occurs when the property's value increases over time due to area developments, infrastructure improvements, or increased demand.
What does 'PM' mean in real estate?
**PM** is an abbreviation for **Property Management**. These are services provided by specialized companies to manage properties on behalf of owners, including: collecting rents, property maintenance, dealing with tenants, and marketing the property for rent.
What does 'CAGR' mean in investment appraisal?
**CAGR** stands for **Compound Annual Growth Rate**. It is a measure of the average annual growth of an investment over a specified period, taking into account the effect of compounding. It is used to evaluate the long-term performance of real estate investments.
What does the term 'Foreclosure' mean in real estate?
**Foreclosure** is the legal process that allows a lender (usually a bank) to take possession of or sell a property that was mortgaged as collateral for a loan that has not been repaid by the borrower, in order to recover the loan amount.
What are 'Preliminary Sale Contract' and 'Final Sale Contract' ?
These are two types of contracts in real estate sales processes:
- **Preliminary Sale Contract:** An initial, unregistered agreement between the seller and buyer specifying sales terms and involving a down payment or part of the price. It is a customary contract and does not transfer final ownership.
- **Final Sale Contract:** This is the contract registered at the Real Estate Registration Office (Shahr Akary) after all conditions and documents are met. It formally and legally transfers ownership to the buyer and protects them from any future disputes.
What is 'Payment Flexibility'?
Payment flexibility refers to the multiple options offered by real estate developers to buyers for settling the unit price, such as: varying down payment percentages, different installment periods, the possibility of annual or delivery payments, or early payment options with specific discounts.
What is 'Property Valuation'?
Property valuation is the process of estimating the true market value of a property at a specific time. It is performed by certified real estate appraisers or valuation experts based on multiple factors such as: location, area, finishes, market conditions, supply and demand, and comparison with similar properties recently sold.
What does 'Resale' mean in the real estate market?
**Resale** refers to the secondary sale of a property. It is the process of selling a property owned by an individual or company (not a new real estate developer) to another buyer. These properties may be ready for delivery or have already been handed over by the developer, and typically have different pricing and payment details than primary sales from the developer.
What is 'Property Surplus'?
Property surplus refers to an abundance of properties listed for sale or rent in a specific area, significantly exceeding the current demand. This surplus can lead to a decrease in prices, longer property market times, or difficulty in selling/renting for owners.
What is 'Return on Equity' (ROE) in real estate?
**ROE** stands for **Return on Equity**. It is a measure of a company's (or investment's) profitability in relation to shareholders' equity. In real estate, it can show the efficiency of using an investor's own capital to generate profits, especially when part of the property is financed with loans.
What are 'Mixed-Use Developments'?
These are real estate projects that combine multiple types of uses within the same complex or area in an integrated manner. For example, they may include: residential units, commercial spaces (shops and restaurants), administrative offices, hotels, recreational facilities, and green spaces. They aim to provide a self-sufficient environment that meets all the needs of its residents and visitors.
What is a 'Real Estate Fund' ?
A real estate fund is an investment vehicle that pools investors' money (individuals and institutions) to purchase and manage various properties (residential, commercial, administrative, hotels) or invest in real estate bonds and companies. It allows small investors to invest in real estate without having to buy an entire property, and is managed by real estate investment professionals, providing diversification and greater liquidity.
What does 'Master Plan' mean in real estate projects?
A **Master Plan** is a comprehensive and detailed blueprint outlining the overall vision for a large-scale real estate project, including the distribution of buildings, green spaces, roads, service and recreational facilities, and how they connect and integrate, to provide a clear vision for the future project.
What is 'Digital Real Estate Marketing' ?
It is the use of digital channels and tools to market properties and attract potential clients effectively and targeted. It includes:
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO) & Search Engine Marketing (SEM).
- Social Media Marketing (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube).
- Content Marketing (blogs, articles, videos).
- Email Marketing.
- Online Paid Advertising.
What is a 'Real Estate Agency' or 'Real Estate Brokerage'?
A real estate agency is a company or individual that acts as an intermediary between sellers and buyers or landlords and tenants of properties. They offer services such as: property valuation, marketing, price negotiation, and assistance with legal procedures. They typically earn a commission upon closing a deal.
What does 'Prime Location' mean?
**Prime Location** refers to the most attractive and in-demand location in a specific area, characterized by its proximity to essential services and main arteries, and high market value, making it a desirable investment.
What is 'Subleasing'?
Subleasing is when the original tenant of a property (not the owner) leases part or all of the property to a third party (the subtenant). This usually requires the original landlord's consent and must be in accordance with the original lease agreement.
What does 'Due Diligence' mean in real estate transactions?
**Due Diligence** is a comprehensive research and investigation process undertaken by a buyer or investor before completing a real estate transaction. This process includes: examining legal documents of the property, verifying permits, assessing structural condition, and identifying any potential financial or legal risks to ensure a sound investment decision.
What are 'Under Construction Projects'?
These are real estate projects where construction has started but is not yet complete, and units have not been delivered. Purchasing in these projects often comes with lower prices and longer payment plans, with the potential for good capital appreciation upon project completion and value increase.
What is the difference between 'Mortgage' and 'Real Estate Financing'?
A mortgage is a legal arrangement where property is used as collateral for a loan. Real estate financing, on the other hand, refers to the loan itself that you obtain to purchase the property, with the mortgage being a part of this financing to secure the lender's right.
What is 'Investment Area' in real estate?
Investment area refers to the space allocated for commercial, administrative, or hospitality use within a residential or mixed-use project. It aims to generate rental or capital returns from commercial activities or services.
What does 'Free Zone' mean in the context of real estate investment?
A Free Zone is a designated geographical area with special economic and trade laws and regulations, aimed at attracting foreign and local investments. In real estate, it may offer facilities to investors regarding ownership or taxes.
What is 'Net Rental Yield'?
It is a more accurate measure of rental property profitability, calculated after deducting all annual operating expenses (such as maintenance, taxes, insurance, management fees) from the gross annual rent, then dividing the result by the property purchase cost.
What does 'Fixer-Upper' mean?
A **Fixer-Upper** is a property that requires extensive repairs or renovations. It is often sold below its market value after renovation, presenting an opportunity for investors who wish to purchase and resell it at a profit after renovation.
What are 'Integrated Developments'?
These are large-scale real estate projects that go beyond simply combining uses, offering nearly self-sufficient communities that include living, working, entertainment, shopping, educational, and health services, all within a single, carefully planned environment.
What does 'Escrow Account' mean in real estate?
An **Escrow Account** is a special bank account held by a third party (such as a bank or lawyer) that holds funds or documents related to a real estate transaction until all agreed-upon conditions between the buyer and seller are met. This account ensures the protection of both parties' rights.
What is 'Property Insurance'?
Property insurance is a type of insurance that protects real estate properties from various risks such as fires, natural disasters, theft, and damages. It can also include liability insurance.
What does 'LTV' mean in mortgage financing?
**LTV** stands for **Loan-to-Value**. It is a percentage that compares the mortgage loan amount to the value of the mortgaged property. The lower this ratio, the better for the borrower in obtaining more favorable loan terms.
What is 'Usufruct'?
Usufruct is a real right that allows the usufructuary to use and exploit a property owned by another person in all aspects, without having the right to dispose of the property's bare ownership. This right is temporary and ends with the death of the usufructuary or the expiry of the agreed period.
What are 'Serviced Apartments'?
These are fully furnished and equipped apartments that offer comprehensive hotel services (housekeeping, maintenance, security, laundry, room service) and are managed by a hotel management company that handles their rental and maintenance on behalf of the owner, allowing the owner to achieve investment returns without the hassle of daily management.
What does 'Yield Gap' mean?
**Yield Gap** is the difference between the expected rental yield from a property and the cost of financing (the interest rate on mortgage loans). This concept is used to assess the feasibility of purchasing a property for rental purposes with bank financing.
What is a 'Real Estate Developer's Credit Rating'?
A real estate developer's credit rating is an assessment of the developer's ability to meet their financial obligations and the quality of their projects. This rating reflects the developer's financial and investment trustworthiness and influences the confidence of investors and banks.
What is 'Design Flexibility'?
It is a feature offered by some projects, where the buyer can make modifications to the interior design of the unit (such as changing room layouts or sizes) before or during the construction process, allowing them to customize the unit according to their needs.
What is 'Experiential Marketing' in real estate?
It is a marketing strategy that aims to engage potential customers in real or virtual experiences of the property or project, such as 3D virtual tours, visits to fully furnished show homes, or on-site events to experience the lifestyle offered.
What does 'Soft Launch' mean in real estate projects?
**Soft Launch** is the initial phase of offering a real estate project for sale, where a limited number of units are presented to specific segments of customers (often early investors) with special prices and offers before the widespread official launch of the project. It aims to gauge interest and gather early feedback.
What is 'Return on Sales' (ROS)?
**ROS** is a measure of how efficiently a company (or real estate developer) converts sales into profits. It is calculated by dividing net profit by total revenue, and is expressed as a percentage. It indicates the profitability of every pound/dollar of sales.
What is 'Internal Rate of Return' (IRR)?
**IRR** is a metric used to evaluate the profitability of potential investments. It is the discount rate that makes the Net Present Value (NPV) of all future cash flows (revenues and expenses) equal to zero. The higher the IRR, the more attractive the investment.
What is 'Property Price Index'?
It is a statistical index that measures changes in residential or commercial property prices over time in a specific area or market. It is used to track the performance of the real estate market and identify general price trends.
What is 'Net Present Value' (NPV)?
**NPV** is a tool used to evaluate the feasibility of investment projects by discounting future cash flows of an investment to their present value. If the NPV is positive, it means the project is profitable and expected to add value to the investor.
What does 'Exit Strategy' mean in real estate investment?
An **Exit Strategy** is a pre-planned course of action by an investor to determine how to sell or dispose of a property in the future to maximize returns. It may include selling after a certain period, long-term leasing, or redevelopment.
What is 'Leasing' (Financial Lease)?
Leasing is an agreement between a lessor and a lessee that allows the lessee to use an asset (property) in exchange for periodic lease payments over a long period, with an option to purchase the asset at the end of the term at a predetermined price, or to renew the lease.
What does 'Brokerage Fee' mean?
A **Brokerage Fee** is the fee paid by the seller or buyer (or both) to a real estate agent (broker) for their services in facilitating the sale, purchase, or lease of a property. It is typically calculated as a percentage of the transaction value.
What is 'Sustainable Development' in real estate?
Sustainable development in real estate involves designing, building, and managing real estate projects in ways that minimize their negative environmental impact (e.g., efficient use of energy and water), and consider social and economic aspects, to ensure resource sustainability for future generations.
What does 'Joint Venture' mean in real estate?
A **Joint Venture** is an agreement between two or more parties (often real estate developers or investors) to collaborate on a specific real estate project. The parties share resources, expertise, risks, and profits to achieve a common goal.
What is a 'Real Estate Portfolio'?
A real estate portfolio is a collection of properties owned by an individual or company for investment purposes. It can consist of different types of properties (residential, commercial, administrative) and in various locations to diversify investments and achieve stable returns.
What is 'Long-Term Investment' versus 'Short-Term Investment' in real estate?
- **Long-Term Investment:** Aims to generate profit through property value appreciation over many years, in addition to rental income.
- **Short-Term Investment:** Aims to generate quick profit by purchasing a property at a low price and reselling it quickly after minor improvements or capitalizing on a market opportunity.
What are 'Reverse Mortgages'?
Reverse mortgages are a type of loan that allows homeowners (typically seniors) to convert a portion of their home equity into cash without having to sell the home or make monthly payments. The loan is typically repaid after the owner's death or sale of the property.
What does 'Green Building' mean?
**Green Building** refers to buildings designed, constructed, and operated in a way that reduces their negative impact on the environment and human health. They focus on efficient use of energy, water, and resources, and minimizing waste and pollution.
What is 'Annual Percentage Rate' (APR)?
**APR** is the annual cost of borrowing, expressed as a percentage. This rate includes the interest rate plus any additional fees associated with the loan. It is used to compare the costs of different loans, including mortgage loans.
What is 'Urban Planning' and its impact on real estate?
Urban planning is the process of designing and managing the growth and development of cities and urban areas. It directly impacts real estate by defining land uses (residential, commercial, industrial), infrastructure, building heights, and services, thereby affecting property values and investment attractiveness.
What are 'Zoning Laws' ?
**Zoning Laws** are local regulations that govern how land in a specific area can be used. They determine whether a property can be used for residential, commercial, industrial, or mixed purposes, and may also specify building heights and allowable densities, significantly impacting real estate development.
What is 'Facility Management' (FM)?
**FM** is a field focused on the efficiency and effectiveness of service and support delivery to organizations occupying buildings. This includes: maintenance, security, cleaning, space management, and logistical support services, to ensure a suitable and efficient living and working environment.
What do 'Tenant' and 'Landlord' mean?
- **Tenant:** An individual or entity who pays rent to use a property they do not own.
- **Landlord:** The owner of a property who leases it to another individual or entity.
What is 'Lease-to-Own' ?
It is an agreement that allows a tenant to rent a property for a specified period, with the option to purchase the property at the end of the lease term at a predetermined price. Typically, a portion of the paid rent is credited as a down payment towards the purchase price.
What is 'Resale Value' ?
It is the expected market value of a property if it is sold again after being purchased from a developer or previous owner. It depends on several factors such as location, property condition, surrounding developments, and market conditions at the time of resale.
What are 'Emerging Markets' in real estate?
These are real estate markets in countries experiencing rapid economic growth and urban development, making them attractive for real estate investment due to high growth opportunities, although they may carry higher risks compared to mature markets.
What is 'Short-Term Rental' ?
It is the rental of a property for a very short period, ranging from a few days to a few weeks, instead of traditional long-term lease agreements. This concept is commonly used for residential and tourist units via platforms such as Airbnb.
What are 'Real Estate Bonds' ?
These are a type of bond issued by real estate companies to finance their projects. Investors purchase these bonds and receive periodic interest payments, and the principal is repaid at the end of the bond's term. They are considered an indirect way to invest in real estate.
What does 'Portfolio Diversification' mean in investment?
**Portfolio Diversification** is an investment strategy that involves distributing investments across different types of assets, sectors, or geographical areas, to reduce risk and improve overall portfolio returns.
What is 'Income Capitalization Approach' in property valuation?
It is one of the property valuation methods that estimates the value of a property based on the income it can generate (e.g., rent). This is done by converting the property's expected future cash flows into a present value using a capitalization rate.
What does 'Speculation' mean in real estate?
**Speculation** in real estate is the act of purchasing a property with the intention of reselling it in the near future at a higher price, based on expectations of its market value increasing rather than a long-term investment plan or generating rental income. It involves higher risks.
What is a 'New Urban Community'?
Refers to cities or residential agglomerations newly established entirely by the state or private sector in uninhabited areas, with the aim of accommodating population growth, relieving pressure on old cities, and providing integrated infrastructure and services.
What are the 'Central Bank Mortgage Initiatives'?
These are initiatives launched by central banks (such as the Central Bank of Egypt) to encourage mortgage financing. They aim to provide housing loans with subsidized interest rates and lenient terms, to enable various segments of society to own residential units.
What does 'Mortgage Backed Securities - MBS' mean?
**MBS** are financial instruments backed by a pool of mortgage loans. These loans are grouped together and sold as an investment to investors. These securities are also known as 'mortgage bonds'.
What is 'Real Estate Risk Management'?
It is the process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with real estate investment and development. It includes market risks, construction risks, legal risks, and liquidity risks, and aims to protect the value of the investment.
What does 'Feasibility Study' mean in real estate?
A **Feasibility Study** is a comprehensive analysis conducted to assess the viability of a proposed real estate project from all aspects: market, technical, financial, and legal. It aims to determine whether the project is feasible and profitable.
What is a 'Floating Mortgage'?
It is a type of mortgage where the interest rate is variable and changes periodically based on a benchmark index (such as the Central Bank's announced interest rate). This differs from fixed-rate mortgages.
What does 'Broker Price Opinion - BPO' mean?
**BPO** is a written estimate of property value provided by a licensed real estate agent (broker). It is often less detailed than a full appraisal by a certified appraiser and is typically used in distressed mortgage situations or when a quick valuation is needed.
What is 'Shahr Akary' (Real Estate Registration Office) in Egypt?
Shahr Akary is the governmental body responsible for registering all legal dispositions related to real estate ownership (such as sales contracts, mortgages, long-term leases). This registration ensures the protection of ownership rights and legitimizes real estate transactions.