Why do women choose to invest in real estate with their friends?   

In recent years, a growing trend has emerged among women: purchasing property in the UAE with friends. This shift reflects broader economic, social, and cultural changes, with many women now finding shared home ownership an appealing and practical option. But why are women choosing to invest in real estate with their friends, and what are the benefits and challenges of this approach?

Why are women buying property together?

The increasing number of women buying property with friends is driven by both economic and social factors. Economically, pooling resources with friends makes access to prime locations and explore options like an off-plan project in Dubai, which often requires a substantial upfront investment.. It allows women to enter the property market sooner, benefiting from shared purchasing power and the opportunity to build equity together. In an environment where housing prices continue to rise, this collaborative approach can be a strategic move.

Socially, women often value strong bonds with their friends, and shared homeownership reflects this. In many cases, these friendships are built on trust and a mutual understanding of shared goals. Gender dynamics also play a role, as women frequently discuss their financial plans with friends, naturally leading to conversations about joint investments. This trend is part of a broader movement toward collaborative living, where mutual support and inclusion are key.

What types of properties are they investing in?

When women decide to buy property with friends, they typically invest in apartments. These purchases often serve as a crucial first step onto the property ladder, allowing them to experience the rewards of property ownership early on. For many, this is a stepping stone toward eventually purchasing a home independently.

Many women choose to live in these jointly owned apartments, creating a supportive, shared home environment. Others approach it from an investment perspective, intending to generate passive income through rentals. With the right advice, women are making smart investment decisions, using these initial purchases to lay a solid foundation for future financial growth.

When did this trend begin?

This trend has been gaining momentum over the past five to seven years, fueled by changes in societal attitudes towards female financial independence. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this shift by highlighting the importance of secure housing and stable investments. As rental prices rise, particularly in places like Dubai, more tenants are considering the benefits of buying instead of renting. If friends can share a rental property, why not purchase together? 

For many single women, especially expatriates, joint homeownership is a way to build a sense of community and inclusion. Achieving property ownership, even as part of a group, is seen as a significant success and a milestone in their lives. This trend is particularly noticeable in markets like Dubai, where the appeal of luxury property in Dubai offers a unique investment opportunity.

What are the typical price points?

In Dubai, the price point for female friends buying property together typically ranges from AED 1 million to AED 3.5 million. Location is a significant factor in these investments, with many women choosing properties close to their workplaces or social hubs. By combining their financial resources, these women can afford properties in desirable locations with amenities that enhance their overall lifestyle.

Why is property investment important for women?

Investing in property is crucial for women as it provides financial security and long-term stability. Property ownership not only builds an asset base but also offers the potential for rental income. For those considering buying property with friends, clear agreements and legal contracts are essential. It’s important to discuss and document each person’s financial contributions, responsibilities, and plans for managing or selling the property in the future. Open communication is key to maintaining a healthy partnership.

In Dubai, it is possible to buy property jointly, with the percentage of ownership specified on the title deed. If one of the co-owners decides to sell their share, all parties must agree, highlighting the need for a well-structured investment agreement to protect everyone's interests. To further safeguard the investment and ensure smooth operations, many co-owners opt for professional property management services in Dubai, which can help manage the property efficiently and handle any potential disputes.

Real-life success stories

Consider the story of Sarah and Nadia, two female professionals who purchased a two-bedroom apartment in Downtown Dubai at the end of 2023. Both in their late 30s, they pooled their resources to afford a property in a prime location. Living together, they share mortgage and maintenance costs, benefiting from both a valuable investment and a supportive living environment. This purchase has set them on the path to financial independence, and they are already considering future investments.

Another case involves three female friends working and renting together in Dubai Marina. Unable to afford a Marina property as their first investment, they instead purchased an apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle. They now rent out the property, generating additional income while its value appreciates. With the help of professional advice, they plan to reinvest this rental income into future property purchases, showcasing how collaborative investments can lead to significant financial gains.

As managing partner at Exclusive Links, a leading real estate broker in Dubai, that I own with my partner and managing director Louise Heatley, we feel that the rise we have seen in women buying property together with friends is a powerful testament to the strength of female friendships and the importance of financial independence. By pooling resources, women are not only making homeownership more accessible but also creating supportive communities and laying the groundwork for future financial success. For those considering this path, clear communication, legal agreements, and professional advice are crucial to making this collaborative investment a rewarding experience.

If you want help to make this happen, reach out to Exclusive Links where, amongst other strengths, we are here to empower women in property acquisition and personal financial independence.  

Read the article Dubai: Why women are teaming up to buy property together that was published in Khaleej Times on 12th August and was contributed to by Zarah Evans, Managing Partner/ Owner of Exclusive Links.