4 Essential Traits: How to Find Your Perfect Real Estate Agent and Broker in Dubai

Let’s face it – it’s not difficult to find a real estate agent and broker in Dubai. There are plenty of them. Between the flashy Instagram posts and the endless “EXCLUSIVE DEAL!” messages, how do you separate the real deals from the time-wasters?
The best real estate agent and broker will have a wealth of local knowledge and be familiar with market trends. They should also be someone you feel comfortable communicating with, who can take care of the details, and have good contacts (i.e. contractors, property managers) in case you need one.
Here are the key traits to consider how you vet for these superpower real estate agents.
What Makes Them Special
1. They have a Niche
Not all agents are created equal. They have specialties. Some focus on certain communities, some focus on villas, apartments, or only luxury property.
Knowing what you want will help you choose the right agent.
For Property Buyers
- Looking for a villa in Arabian Ranches with a 3.5M AED budget? Your agent should know the Arabian Ranches community and its villas inside and out.
- Need a studio in Dubai Marina for short-term rental? Seek an investment-focused agent with expertise in holiday homes
- Interested in hotel apartments? Work with specialists who understand this unique market segment
Why Niche Matters
- Deeper market knowledge
- Better pricing insights
- Stronger community connections
- More accurate property comparisons
2. Honest and Integrity
Generally speaking, dishonest and unethical people are just a waste of time and energy.
The best real estate brokers in Dubai stand out through their transparency. They should:
- Call out overpriced properties without hesitation
- Provide realistic market assessments
- Put your interest at heart over commissions
- Maintain consistent communication and promises
The best realtor broker can smell an overpriced property from a mile away. They’re not afraid to tell you when a deal smells fishy, even if it means losing a commission. You want someone who says, “Look, this property’s been on the market for six months because the owner’s dreaming about the price” rather than “What a fantastic opportunity!”
3. A Great Communicator & Negotiator
While many real estate agents and brokers boast multilingual agents who speak Arabic, Hindi, English, and Russian, true communication excellence goes deeper:
What to Look For
- Quick response times to calls and WhatsApp messages
- Proactive updates about property status
- Genuine listening to your property needs versus pushing available listings
- Strong negotiation abilities
Naturally, good communicators are good listeners, responsive, and will get back to you sooner than later. When it comes to negotiating an offer, these agents should have a more aggressive approach to closing a deal. And when surprises come up, they should also have smart strategies ready on the table.
4. Driven with Experience
The best realtor broker isn’t always the most experienced.
Oftentimes, super-experienced agents are too busy with repeat clients and referral business. They may not have the time to help you or go that extra mile.
Working with a real estate agent who is newer can also its own advantage. Here’s why:
- More motivated and eager to serve you
- Eagerness to earn your trust and make things happen
- Strong desire to prove themselves
- Access to their broker’s extensive network
Newer agents also tend to rely on their realtor broker for advice. So, keep in mind which real estate brokers the agent works for.
A seasoned real estate broker will have a solid reputation with an extensive network and long-standing relationships with top developers. Even if the agent is not as experienced, he/she still can bring you access to the best opportunities and resources.
How to Find These Unicorns Real Estate Agent & Broker
1. Find a Referral
A referral is probably the best way to find a good real estate agent. If you can find a referral from a friend, family, or neighbour, it’s a good starting point to see if they fit you personally. Referrals are a great way to get first-hand insights about real people’s experiences with that agent, what they liked about them and what they didn’t.
In Dubai, Facebook groups are also popular ways to find unbiased recommendations and advice on topics related to living in Dubai. If you see the real estate agents’ names get recommended often, or if you like how they respond in these groups, view them as a good sign.
2. Needs to be Official
Last but not least, make sure to verify the agent’s RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) broker number. A real estate agent in Dubai needs to be registered and licensed to practice in the UAE. Search for them online and see which real estate broker they represent. The broker’s website will include their background and experience.
Just like fake listings on the property portal websites portal, there are also people out there acting as fake agents. If a potential agent doesn’t return calls at all, it could potentially be a fake listing they posted for their own marketing purpose.
The Bottom Line
The best real estate agent and broker will have a wealth of local knowledge and be familiar with market trends. They should also be someone you feel comfortable communicating with, who can take care of the details, and have good contacts (i.e. contractors, property managers) in case you need one.
Look for someone who:
- Treats your money like their own
- Has a niche and a solid network
- Makes you feel like you’re their only client (even though you’re not)
Finding a stellar real estate agent and broker in Dubai isn’t impossible – it just requires more effort, and if you find a great one, they should be celebrated and shared with those we care about.