Property plans in the UK and Dubai

01

Start with the property and the purpose

A family home, employee accommodation and an investment property raise different questions. A useful enquiry identifies the location, intended use, purchase or rental budget, timing and any property already under consideration.

If you need help with viewings, relocation arrangements or ongoing ownership, say so. We will explain which parts can be supported and whether another provider is required. Availability is confirmed for the particular location and instruction.

02

Buying: know who is responsible for each part

In England and Wales, conveyancing, a building survey and mortgage advice are different services. The estate agent generally acts for the seller. Ask who will advise you independently, what the quoted fee covers and whether a referral payment is involved. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different purchase procedures.

In Dubai, check the property and the authority of the person marketing it. Dubai Land Department provides title-deed verification and information about registered brokers and projects. Off-plan purchases need attention to the project’s registration and payment arrangements.

A property enquiry with Strand does not by itself appoint a conveyancer, surveyor or broker. Any such role must be identified and agreed with the appropriately authorised professional.

03

Renting and relocation: agree the essentials early

Tell us the proposed move-in date, household or employee requirements, length of stay and budget. Identify any request for furnished accommodation, school-related relocation information or other practical help so that availability and separate providers can be clarified.

Tenancy rules depend on the location and type of letting. England’s private-renting framework changed from 1 May 2026; an old tenancy template should not simply be reused. Dubai has its own tenancy and Ejari registration processes. Confirm the current terms, deposits, fees and registration responsibilities before signing.

04

Owning property from another country

Before letting or leaving a property in someone else’s care, agree responsibility for rent collection, inspections, repairs, records, insurance and local compliance. Management support must have a defined service and fee, rather than an assumed promise that every issue is covered.

UK rental income can remain taxable when the owner lives abroad. The Non-resident Landlord Scheme may affect how rent is collected and reported. Obtain tax advice for your ownership structure and residence; do not assume that holding property through a company removes tax obligations.

05

Property ownership and immigration permission are separate

Buying a UK home does not itself create a UK immigration route. Your right to live or work in the UK needs its own assessment.

Dubai has property-related residence categories, including a Golden Visa application route subject to qualifying ownership and other conditions. A purchase does not automatically grant residence. If immigration is part of your plan, confirm the relevant requirements before agreeing the transaction.

06

What to include in your first enquiry

Send the country and city, whether you want to buy, rent or discuss an existing property, the intended use, approximate budget and preferred timing. If you already have a listing or a proposed transaction, include its public link and explain the help you need.

Start with a short outline. We can then confirm fit, available support, any necessary professional referral and the proposed scope and fees. Any professional appointment and responsibility should be confirmed before you commit to the relevant service.

Common questions