Renovating a property in Dubai can be one of the best ways to increase its value—but it can also be one of the quickest ways to lose money if you're not prepared.
Whether you're an end-user dreaming of your perfect family home, or an investor looking to flip for profit, there are certain renovation mistakes that can seriously derail your budget, timeline, and sanity.
That’s why Episode 37 of Property Talk from Louise’s Lounge is a must-watch for anyone thinking of taking on a renovation project in the UAE.
🎙️ WATCH THE FULL EPISODE HERE
We sat down with Barry Lee Cummings and David Cook, co-founders of Contractors Direct, to dive into what really goes wrong during renovations—and how to get it right.
What You'll Learn From This Episode
1. Why Time is Your Biggest Cost “It’s almost always time and unrealistic budgets,” David explains. Most clients don’t start thinking about design and fit-out until after purchase, losing up to three months before work even begins—and paying rent or mortgages in the meantime.
2. The Truth About Budgets Pinterest dreams are great, but if they don’t match your budget, expect delays and disappointment. Designers often go big on visuals, but that doesn’t always align with financial reality. The solution? Be upfront about your budget from the start.
3. Why a Project Manager is Worth Their Weight in Gold Barry calls them “your secret weapon.” A good, independent project manager will not only keep your contractors accountable, but also save you time, stress, and often 8–12% of the total renovation cost through smarter product selections and value engineering.
4. Red Flags You Can’t Afford to Ignore Some of the worst horror stories they shared involved clients being ghosted mid-project, unsafe building practices, and one alarming case of a contractor skipping the country—taking tens of millions of dirhams with him.
5. The Hidden Costs of Approvals Many owners underestimate the rising costs of getting developer approvals—especially for extensions. What once was a flat fee can now cost tens of thousands of dirhams, and may even halt your entire renovation if not properly planned.
Investing in high-end finishes without understanding market demand can limit returns, especially in luxury property in Dubai, where buyers expect both style and functionality.
Before starting your renovation, it's essential to understand how upgrades can enhance value and appeal. Read Why Renovating Your Dubai Property is a Smart Investment to make informed decisions and maximise your returns.
Real Talk, Real Stories
This episode isn’t just about theory—it’s packed with real-life examples from Dubai residents and investors who got caught out by cheap quotes, shady contractors, or skipped planning. Fortunately, Barry and David have also stepped in to rescue many of these projects—and their stories are both cautionary and inspiring.
Our Biggest Takeaway?
Renovation isn’t just about how your property looks. It’s about protecting your investment.
And the best way to do that? Start early, be realistic, and surround yourself with the right professionals.
“It’s not about spending more money—it’s about spending smart money,” says David.
🔎 Title: Renovation Mistakes That Will DESTROY Your Investment in Dubai
🎧 Episode 37 of Property Talk from Louise’s Lounge
Whether you're just browsing listings or knee-deep in permits, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.
Got questions? We’d love to hear from you. Reach out, leave a comment, or connect with us for more expert insights.
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