Categories: Interview

Invest like an economist: Szilvia shares UAE real estate investment success formula

What inspired your transition from Total Rewards Lead for MEAP to real estate consulting?

A decade ago, I relocated to Dubai to lead the Total Rewards function for a multinational FMCG company. I was fortunate to work with an exceptional team that fuelled my growth. Four years ago, while searching for our first home in Dubai, I dove deep into market data, researching communities and developers. The economist in me couldn`t resist crunching the figures on every option. Real estate analytics soon became my passion and ultimately a career pivot. From owning a single apartment, I built an investment portfolio with outstanding returns and become a strategic real-estate investment consultant.

What attributes are you bringing to real estate consulting that set you apart?

What sets me apart is my unconventional and holistic lens. My corporate background shaped my strategic and analytical mindset. I’ve always worked with tight budgets to create balanced, high-impact reward packages. Combining this with my innate people-centric approach, I can empower others to reach their full potential, both personally and financially, through well-informed, data-backed decisions. I evaluate opportunities with the same rigor I apply to my own capital, ensuring above-average returns and long-term value in a safe way.

My corporate background shaped my strategic and analytical mindset. I’ve always worked with tight budgets to create balanced, high-impact reward packages

How do you evaluate macroeconomic factors, sustainability, and community impact to identify properties likely to appreciate?

Dubai and the UAE is undergoing a real estate boom, and understanding the ‘why’ behind it is critical. I focus on neighbourhoods aligned with the strategic agenda and major infrastructure developments, where values are likely to surge beyond the norm. I analyse 8-10 key parameters to identify standout investment opportunities. My data-driven due diligence helps me filter out the truly great opportunities. Then I craft a holistic investment strategy, optimal timing, negotiate most favourable terms, and a clear exit plan. Every detail is curated for maximum return with minimum risk.

Dubai and the UAE have significant growth potential over the next decade, driven by the growing demand aligned with Dubai’s strategic agenda, still affordable prices and its emergence as the number one city in the world. However, the era of winning deals through charisma alone are fading. As real estate matures, success will lie in predictive analysis, understanding broader economic patterns, and fostering trust-based relationships. Data literacy, strategic insights, ethics and collaboration are becoming the real differentiators.

One advice you would give aspiring real estate investors to manage risks amid market changes?

Opportunity exists in every market cycle, it’s the strategy that matters. Work with a well-informed real estate consultant who truly has your interests at heart and who can be your long-term strategic partner in your wealth creation journey. One who is honest about both the selling points and risks, builds contingency plans and walks with you throughout the entire investment lifecycle. Avoid quick-win brokers focused on their commission who facilitate unsustainable deals without adequate funds to follow through on your contractual commitments.

Himanshi Singh

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