Show units can feel like dream homes — spotless finishes, perfect lighting, and every corner styled just right. But what happens when the real thing arrives? This blog explores the gap between expectation and reality in Dubai’s off-plan properties, and how to prepare for a smooth handover.
You walked through the show unit, fell in love with the walk-in closet, admired the sleek kitchen counters, and imagined your own dinner parties in that perfectly lit living room. We’ve all been there.
But now, it’s handover time. And as you walk into your actual unit for the first time, something feels… a little different.
This blog is about that moment — and why it doesn’t necessarily mean anything went wrong.
First things first: show units are designed to impress. They’re built to highlight the best possible version of a layout — fully furnished, professionally lit, and styled down to the smallest accessory.
But what you’ll get upon handover is a core unit — with the specs you paid for, but none of the styling magic.
That means:
And yes, those marble countertops might be quartz in your version. Always double-check what was “representative” and what was actually in the spec sheet.
The basics. The layout, the flooring type, the quality of bathroom fixtures, door handles, AC units, built-in wardrobes — these are things that should match what was promised in the contract and the brochure.
The exact colors or minor finishes? Sometimes they vary slightly depending on materials available at the time of build. If in doubt, pull up your sales agreement — that’s the legally binding reference.
Here’s where things get real.
Once handover is initiated, you (or your representative) will go through a snagging process. That’s your chance to walk through the property and flag any issues:
Developers are obligated to fix these items before (or shortly after) you take full possession. The key is to be thorough — and ideally, bring a professional snagging company with you. They’ll notice things you won’t.
Even in high-end developments, there are a few things buyers often forget they’ll need to handle themselves post-handover:
So give yourself a bit of a runway before moving in — and don’t assume “turnkey” unless it was specifically marketed that way.
The moment your unit is handed over, you're responsible for service charges — even if you're not moving in right away.
Ask the developer or management company:
It’s a detail many buyers overlook until the first invoice arrives.
That first walk-through can feel underwhelming — especially if your expectations were built around a show unit filled with diffused lighting and designer furniture.
But here’s the truth: most high-quality developers in Dubai deliver what they promise. The “gap” is usually one of styling, not substance. Once you furnish, personalize, and settle in, the space transforms.
Moving into your new home — or your latest investment unit — is a milestone. But if you're comparing it to the show apartment, manage your expectations. It’s not supposed to look exactly the same.
What matters is quality, functionality, and making sure the developer delivered what they legally committed to. From there, you build your own version of what home looks like.
And with a little time (and maybe a few IKEA trips), it might turn out even better than the brochure.
About QUBE Development:
QUBE Development, a subsidiary of DHG Investments, is a leading real estate developer in Dubai of high-quality residential and commercial properties. Standing on a 30-year legacy of experience and excellence, QUBE is dedicated to transforming living spaces in the UAE by integrating sustainable architecture, captivating design, and unparalleled amenities.
As a community-focused property developer in Dubai, QUBE Development aims to set the benchmark for real estate development by creating the foundation for generational wealth for customers. The company prioritizes durability and quality in every project. Expanding its portfolio throughout the UAE, QUBE Development responds swiftly to the evolving market demands, maintaining a commitment to providing the highest quality builds through collaborations with world-renowned architects and in partnership with a dedicated contractor to ensure meticulous attention to design and construction.
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