Off-plan attracts buyers because launch prices typically sit 10-25% below the eventual market value at handover. Risks: developer insolvency, completion delays, unit changes, market downturns before handover.
UAE: payment plans are RERA-regulated; funds enter a project escrow administered by the DLD. Developer can only draw on escrow against verified construction progress. The Real Estate Regulatory Agency tracks every off-plan launch in the e-mart.
UK: deposits are typically 10% on exchange + 10% on long-stop date + balance on completion. UK off-plan deposits are NOT held in escrow by default — buyers should ask for ARMA-Q or NHBC-protected schemes.
For Belgrave: every off-plan listing includes the developer's track record score, current escrow status, and an independently-sourced milestone calendar.