Key features of a dream home
A dream home is personal, but some features appear on almost every buyer's list.
Every buyer's dream home is different, shaped by their lifestyle and their family. Still, some features come up again and again. Use this list to define what matters most to you before you start viewing.
- 01Location comes first: schools, work, healthcare and shopping nearby.
- 02Open, light-filled layouts and good outdoor space.
- 03Quality materials, a practical kitchen and a comfortable main bedroom.
- 04Smart, secure and energy-efficient features.
Location
- Close to essentials: schools, work, healthcare and shopping.
- Views: sea, lagoon, park or golf course views.
- The right community: safe, peaceful and suited to your lifestyle, whether city or suburban.
Architecture and design
- Open-plan living: kitchen, living and dining spaces that flow together.
- Natural light: large windows that bring in daylight.
- High ceilings: a greater sense of space.
Outdoor space
- A garden or terrace: for relaxing and entertaining.
- Balconies and patios: outdoor living for the cooler months.
- A pool: private or shared, depending on the home.
Quality materials and finishes
- Flooring: marble, wood or quality tiles.
- Worktops: durable stone in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Built-in storage: designed around the home.
A kitchen that works
- Quality appliances: efficient and reliable.
- Space: enough worktop space for cooking and entertaining.
- An island: often the centre of family life.
A comfortable main bedroom
- An en-suite bathroom: with a walk-in shower or bath.
- Walk-in wardrobes: plenty of storage.
- A private retreat: sometimes with a sitting area or balcony.
Smart and efficient
- Home automation: control lighting, cooling and security from your phone.
- Energy efficiency: good insulation, efficient cooling and smart thermostats lower running costs.
Space for life
- A home office: for remote work or study.
- Family and media rooms: space to spend time together.
- Fitness: a home gym or access to community facilities.
Privacy and security
- Gated communities: controlled access and a sense of privacy.
- Security systems: cameras, smart locks and alarms.
Sustainability
- Sustainable materials: non-toxic and responsibly sourced.
- Water and energy savings: efficient fittings and, where available, solar power.
- Smart landscaping: plants suited to the local climate.
Find your dream home
Foreign nationals can buy freehold homes in the designated areas of Dubai and in the investment zones of Abu Dhabi. Tell us what matters most to you and an iRealtor advisor will shortlist homes that match, from apartments to Townhomes and villas. Start with our community guides.
FAQs
What is the most important feature of a dream home?
For most buyers it is location: being close to schools, work, healthcare and shopping, in a community that suits their lifestyle.
Are smart home features worth it?
They can make daily life easier and help lower energy costs, especially cooling and lighting controls.
How do I start my search?
Write down your must-haves and your budget, then speak to an advisor who can shortlist homes that match.
