Best Islamabad Apartments for sale? Where to Find the Top Deals and Investments

June 01, 2023 / BY ESPA

Table of content

• Luxury Apartments in Islamabad’s Prime Locations • Mid-Range Apartments Near Major Attractions • Affordable Apartments for Students and Young Professionals • How to Buy an Apartment in Islamabad • Tips for Finding an Apartment for Sale in Islamabad • Using Property Websites to Find and Compare Islamabad Apartments • Negotiating the Best Price for an Islamabad Apartment • Hidden Costs to Consider When Buying an Islamabad Apartment

Introduction:

So you're looking to buy an apartment in Islamabad, huh? Smart thinking. Pakistan's capital city is a hub for business, culture, and natural beauty. As Islamabad's population grows, the demand for housing rises along with it. That means now is the time to invest in Islamabad real estate before prices skyrocket. But with so many new apartment complexes popping up, how do you know where to find the best deals and the properties with the highest return on investment?

1) Luxury Apartments in Islamabad’s Prime Locations

If you're looking for luxury living in Islamabad, you can't beat the prime locations. We're talking about sectors like F-6, F-7, and E-7—these areas are home to some of the most prestigious addresses in the capital.

In F-6, check out apartments in buildings like The Centaurus. This high-rise tower offers state-of-the-art amenities like valet parking, a world-class gym, and even a sky lounge with panoramic city views. Or for a more boutique feel, look at places like F-6 Icon or Mumtaz Residency.

Over in F-7, Park Plaza is a popular choice. Their spacious apartments feature imported marble floors, Jacuzzis in the master suites, and 24-hour security. Margalla View and Islamabad Club also have luxury flats with golf course views.

If you prefer E-7, Beverly Hills and Park Enclave both offer lavish penthouses and duplexes loaded with upgrades like home theaters, wine cellars, and rooftop terraces. Or for a good value, try Diamond Residency—their apartments have hardwood floors, granite countertops and all the latest smart home technology.

With so many prime sectors and prestigious buildings to choose from, you're sure to find a luxury apartment in Islamabad that suits your needs. Whether you want a sleek penthouse, a roomy flat with a big yard, or a place that's move-in ready, the top locations have it all. Start searching today and you could be living the high life in Pakistan's capital city before you know it!

2) Mid-Range Apartments Near Major Attractions

If you're looking for an affordable apartment in a prime location, check out the mid-range options near major attractions in Islamabad. These areas put you close to the action without the hefty price tag. • Near Faisal Mosque and Margalla Hills National Park, you'll find apartments for around $150,000 to $300,000. This natural paradise is only 10-15 minutes from the city center but feels like a world away. Wake up to hiking trails and stunning views. • Blue Area and Jinnah Super Market have lots of apartments in the $200,000 to $500,000 range. You'll be walking distance to shops, restaurants, and business centers in the heart of the city. These well-connected neighborhoods are perfect if you want an easy commute and vibrant surroundings. • Near Rawalpindi, apartments go for $100,000 to $250,000. This suburb has a slightly lower cost of living but is only a 30-minute drive to Islamabad. Families and nature lovers often prefer the open spaces and parks here.

With an expanding metro system and major roadways, getting around Islamabad is relatively easy. So if you find an apartment you love, don't worry too much about the location—you can explore it all! The mid-range options provide the best value, giving you access to attractions and amenities without overspending. Why not start your search there? You may just find the perfect place to call home in Islamabad.

Affordable Apartments for Students and Young Professionals

As a student or young professional just starting out in Islamabad, finding an affordable apartment can be challenging. Rent prices have skyrocketed in recent years, putting many desirable neighborhoods out of reach. However, there are still good deals to be found if you know where to look.

Several areas of Islamabad offer lower-cost apartments that would suit a student budget or entry-level salary. Bahria Town, for example, has many high-rise buildings with small studio and one-bedroom apartments for rent under 50,000 PKR per month. While a bit far from the city center, Bahria Town has good infrastructure and amenities.

DHA and G-11 also have more affordable options, especially if you look at older buildings. You may find a basic but livable one-bedroom apartment for 30,000 to 40,000 PKR. These areas are located within Islamabad proper, putting you close to universities and workplaces. Be prepared to compromise on amenities like covered parking or a gym.

For the best deals, consider renting in a residential suburb just outside Islamabad like Rawat, Gujjar Khan or Tarnol. Rent prices are significantly lower, around 20,000 to 30,000 PKR per month for a one-bedroom apartment. While further from the city, these suburbs have local markets and amenities to meet basic needs. The lower rent may offset additional transportation costs.

Some tips for finding an affordable apartment:

•Look for older buildings, especially those built in the 1980s or earlier. Newer, upscale buildings will charge premium rates.

•Consider a smaller space, like a studio or one-bedroom. More rooms mean higher rent.

•Be flexible with amenities and extras. You can live without covered parking, an on-site gym or rooftop terrace.

•Negotiate the best deal. Many landlords will drop the asking price, especially if the place has been vacant for a while.

•Spread the word that you're looking for an affordable apartment. Friends or family may know of places not yet advertised.

•Check listings frequently and be ready to move quickly. Good deals tend to go fast!

With some patience and compromise, you can find an affordable apartment as a student or young professional in Islamabad. While not the height of luxury, a lower-cost place to call home will let you focus your time and money on your education or building your career.

3) How to Buy an Apartment in Islamabad

So you’ve decided to invest in an apartment in Islamabad. Excellent choice—the capital city offers attractive yields and high demand. But how do you go about buying an apartment here, especially if you’re not located in Pakistan? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Find a Reputable Real Estate Agent

The first step is finding an established real estate agent or agency specializing in Islamabad properties. Ask friends or family for referrals, or search online for top-rated agents. Interview a few and go with whoever you feel most comfortable with. They can guide you through the entire buying process and handle much of the legwork for you.

Determine Your Budget

Work with your agent to determine how much you can afford to spend on an apartment. Factor in not just the purchase price but also monthly costs like utilities, maintenance fees, property taxes, and insurance. Make sure you understand all fees and costs involved before you start your search.

Review Listings and Visit Properties

Ask your agent to provide listings of apartments that meet your criteria. Review photos and details online or via email to narrow down your options. If possible, take a trip to Islamabad to tour your top choices in person. There’s no substitute for seeing the properties firsthand. If a visit isn’t feasible, ask your agent to do video walkthroughs on your behalf.

Make an Offer and Negotiate

Once you’ve found an apartment you’re interested in, make an initial offer contingent on an inspection. Be prepared to negotiate with the seller on the final price and terms. Use your agent’s expertise to determine a fair offer and work to get the best deal possible.

Conduct an Inspection and Finalize Legal Paperwork

If your offer is accepted, hire a professional inspector to evaluate the property. Make sure there are no major issues before finalizing the sale. Then work with your agent and a lawyer to sign official sales agreements, transfer the title, and complete all necessary legal paperwork.

Congratulations, You're a Homeowner!

When all documents have been signed and payments made, the apartment is officially yours! Even from afar, you can now enjoy the benefits of owning a home in an up-and-coming area like Islamabad. Work with a property manager to handle things like renting out or maintaining your new investment.

4) Tips for Finding an Apartment Sale in Islamabad for

Finding an apartment for sale in Islamabad that suits your needs and budget requires some savvy searching. Here are some tips to help you land a great deal on your new home.

Search Multiple Listing Websites

Don’t limit yourself to just one or two real estate listing sites. Cast a wide net across various portals like Zameen, OLX, Graana and Meraas to find apartments from different owners, builders and agents. You’ll have more options to choose from and can compare prices.

Visit New Developments

New housing schemes and apartment buildings often offer promotions and discounts to early buyers. Take a tour of some new developments in areas that interest you. You may find an ideal, affordable new place and incentives like waived documentation fees or utility connections.

Negotiate the Best Price

Once you find some promising listings, don’t accept the asking price at face value. There is often room for negotiation, especially if the apartment has been on the market for a while. Do some research to determine a fair price range for that location and amenities. Then make an offer 10-15% below the asking price and be willing to compromise. You could save lakhs!

Consider Resale Apartments

Resale apartments are previously owned condos that the current owner is selling. They are often more affordable than new builds. Resale apartments may need some renovation or updating, but can be a great investment if you get a good deal. Have a professional inspector evaluate any resale apartment before you purchase to identify any major issues.

Think Long Term

Consider how long you plan to own the apartment and how the area and amenities may change over time. Look for a place that will hold its value well and still meet your needs 5-10 years down the road. An apartment in an up-and-coming, well-connected neighborhood may have the best potential for high returns on your investment.

Following these useful tips will help you find an ideal apartment for sale in Islamabad with the best deal. With some patience and persistence, you can land an affordable new home that will serve you well for years to come.

5) Using Property Websites to Find and Compare Islamabad Apartments

Property Websites Offer Convenience and Selection

Searching for apartments on property websites is one of the easiest ways to find places for sale in Islamabad. You can view listings from the comfort of your home and compare options across different areas of the city. Some of the top sites for finding Islamabad apartments for sale include: • Zameen.com - Pakistan’s largest real estate portal with thousands of listings in Islamabad. Set up alerts for new listings that match your criteria. • Graana.com - A major property website featuring apartments, houses and plots in Islamabad. Filter by location, price, size and amenities. • OLX.com.pk - A popular classified site where owners and agents advertise apartments and other properties for sale. You may find good deals from private sellers here.

Compare Important Details

Once you find some appealing options, compare the specifics for each to determine the best value. Look at: • Asking price - Consider the price per square foot to assess if an apartment is reasonably or overpriced. • Size - Pay attention to the number of rooms and square footage which can vary significantly between listings. • Location - Think about proximity to work, schools, public transit and amenities that are important to you. • Age and condition - Newer buildings may charge higher prices but require fewer repairs. Check if any major renovations have been done. • Amenities - Compare facilities like parking, storage, gyms, pools, play areas and building security. • Owner financing - See if the owner offers any financing options which could make an apartment more affordable

Visit Top Contenders

While property websites make searching convenient, visiting your favorite listings in person is the only way to get a true sense of an apartment and make an informed choice. Once you narrow down the options, schedule visits to see the top contenders that meet your needs and budget. An in-person visit can reveal details that aren’t conveyed in the listing and help you find an ideal place to call home!

6) Negotiating the Best Price for an Islamabad Apartment

Do Your Research

Before you start negotiating for an Islamabad apartment, do some research on current market prices in the neighborhood you’re interested in. Check recent sale prices of comparable properties on sites like Zameen.com, OLX, and Property Finder to determine a fair price range. You’ll want to know the going rates for apartments of similar size, age, amenities, and location. Come prepared with a maximum price you’re willing to pay based on your budget.

Express Serious Interest

Once you’ve found an apartment you’re keen on, let the owner or agent know you’re genuinely interested. Ask to view the property again and discuss any needed repairs or renovations. Be upfront that you want to negotiate the best possible price. Your enthusiasm and transparency will demonstrate you’re a serious buyer.

Make a Reasonable Offer

When you’re ready to make an offer, start at least 10-15% below the asking price. Explain how you arrived at your offer based on your research and point out any flaws or necessary improvements needed for the apartment. Be willing to compromise and possibly increase your offer, but don’t go above the maximum price you’ve set.

Negotiate Terms

If your offer is accepted, you’ll want to negotiate the best possible terms for the sale. Try to get the owner to pay for needed repairs or renovations and lower their asking price accordingly. Ask if they’d consider an all-cash offer or shorter settlement period in exchange for a higher price. You can also try to include furniture or appliances in the sale to increase the value.

Be Flexible

Successful negotiation requires flexibility and compromise from both parties. Be willing to meet the owner partway in the process. While you want to get the best deal possible, you also want to come to an agreement that you’re both satisfied with. Stay polite and professional throughout the negotiation to maintain a cooperative atmosphere. With patience and flexibility, you’ll negotiate an excellent price for your new Islamabad apartment!

7) Hidden Costs to Consider When Buying an Islamabad Apartment

Property Taxes

When buying an apartment in Islamabad, don’t forget that you’ll be responsible for paying property taxes each year. The tax rate varies depending on the value and size of your apartment, but you can expect to pay between 1-3% of the property value annually. Ensure you understand your desired neighborhood's property tax rates before purchasing to avoid an unexpected bill.

Utilities

Unless specified in the listing, utility costs like electricity, gas, water, and sewer are typically not included in your apartment purchase price or monthly rent. Be prepared to pay for these utilities in addition to your mortgage or rent payment each month. The total cost will depend on the size of your apartment and your usage, but you can expect to pay at least $50-200 per month for basic utilities in Islamabad.

Homeowner’s Association Fees

Many apartment buildings and housing communities in Islamabad require homeowner’s association or HOA fees. These fees cover things like building maintenance, security, landscaping, and recreational facilities. HOA fees are often a few hundred dollars per month, so make sure you understand if there are any required HOA fees before you purchase an apartment.

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Renovation and Repair Costs

Even if you buy an apartment in move-in ready condition, there are always unforeseen renovation and repair costs that come up. Things like leaky faucets, electrical issues, or HVAC repairs can cost thousands of dollars to fix. It’s a good idea to budget at least 1-2% of the property value each year for ongoing maintenance, repairs, and renovations to avoid being caught off guard by surprise costs.

Insurance

Homeowner’s insurance is required for most apartment mortgages to protect the property in the event of damage from events like fire, theft, or natural disasters. Expect to pay between $500 to $1,500 per year for an insurance policy on an Islamabad apartment, depending on the value of the property and the amount of coverage. Make sure any insurance costs are included in your monthly housing budget.

8) FAQs: How to Sell or Rent Out Your Islamabad Apartment

So you’ve decided to sell or rent out your Islamabad apartment. That’s great news! There are a few things you should know to make the process as smooth as possible.

Price It Right

Do some research on current market rates for similar properties in your area. Check sites like Zameen, OLX or local Facebook groups to determine a competitive price range. Price on the higher end of the range if your place is in a desirable location or has upgrades. You can always come down, but you can’t go up!

Advertise Widely

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread the word about your listing on multiple platforms to reach the widest range of potential buyers or tenants. In addition to the major real estate sites, post on community Facebook groups, tell friends to share on their social media, and put a “For Sale/Rent” sign in front of your building.

Show It Off

Make sure your place is clean and clutter-free before showing it to prospective buyers or renters. Do any minor repairs needed and consider staging the space to make rooms appear more open and inviting. Little touches like fresh flowers or accent lighting can go a long way.

Be Flexible With Viewings

Accommodate people’s busy schedules as much as possible. Offer to show the apartment on weeknights, weekends, and during the day if you’re able. The more people who view it, the more likely you’ll find a serious and qualified buyer or tenant.

Negotiate The Best Deal

Once you receive an offer, don’t feel pressured to accept it right away. Counter with a price you feel comfortable with based on your research and the overall interest in your listing. Be willing to compromise to reach an agreement that satisfies both parties. With some patience and negotiation, you’ll get the best deal for your Islamabad home.

Selling or renting out an apartment in Islamabad can be challenging, but by following these tips you'll be well on your way to success. Best of luck!

Conclusion

So there you have it, the inside scoop on the best apartments for sale in Islamabad right now. Whether you're looking for a luxury penthouse, an affordable starter place, or a solid investment property, Islamabad has options for you. The key is doing your research, setting a budget, and finding the right neighborhood that suits your needs. Islamabad's housing market is growing fast, so now is the time to get in while prices are still reasonable and there are good deals to be found. What are you waiting for? Start browsing listings, schedule some viewings, and make an offer on your new Islamabad home today. The city is calling you!