A lot of first-time owners are confused about whether to buy an off-plan apartment or villa. Buying an off plan property in Dubai  home to live or to invest in is the largest transaction you will ever make in your life. Also, it is a very important investment decision.

Therefore, it is advisable to take as much time as possible to consider all the factors involved to settle on the best property and developer. The debate on which is best between villas and apartments is not going to end soon because both have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Here are tips to help you choose between villas and apartments

1. Location

The location where the property you are looking to invest in is a very important factor to consider when choosing between a villa and an apartment. Either choice should be located at close proximity to essential amenities such as schools, offices, hospitals, banks, etc.

The decision should also depend on the family you have or are planning to have in the future. For instance, if you have children, you will need a place that is close to schools.

1. Price

Besides location, the price is another important component in your decision-making process. In most cases, the price will favour the purchase of apartment over a villa. The reason why the price of the villas is slightly high is because of the cost of the land. However, the final decision will depend on the individual’s specific needs and requirements.

• Privacy

Unlike apartments, each villa unit is placed on an independent piece of land. Most villas are located in a serene neighbourhood with a lot of greenery which adds to the charm, such as the Emaar Arabian Ranches 3.

Nevertheless, one of the biggest advantages of villas is the layers of privacy from public spaces, which the Arabian Ranches by Emaar offers.

Even though modern apartments are fitted with high standards of sound insulation, disturbances from neighbours are bound to intrude. This is because apartments are housed in one building and are mostly located in bustling areas.

1. Maintenance

The lush and green lawns and flowers found in villas are very appealing. However, unless you are a gardener, you will need to outsource upkeep and maintenance services which will come at a price. Also, you will need regular swimming pool maintenance services to avoid green algae from growing.

On the other hand, apartments have shared gardens and pools where every member contributes to the maintenance cost.