One of the first choices a flat buyer faces is whether to buy a ready apartment or book one that is still being built. Both routes can work well. The better choice depends on your timeline, budget and how much uncertainty you are comfortable with. This guide sets out the main trade-offs so you can decide with clearer expectations.
What the two options mean
A ready apartment is complete and can usually be inspected and occupied soon after the transaction is finished. An under-construction apartment is booked from plans, drawings and specifications, and handed over on a date set in the agreement.
Why buyers choose a ready apartment
- You see what you are buying. You can check daylight, airflow, finishes, noise and the condition of common areas in person.
- A clearer timeline. There is no waiting period for construction to finish, which can help if you need to move soon.
- Easier comparison. You can compare real units side by side instead of relying on drawings.
The trade-offs are less flexibility on layout and finishes and, in an older building, the need to check maintenance history and structural condition. Our guides on checking building quality and natural light and ventilation can help you inspect a ready unit.
Why buyers choose an under-construction apartment
- Staged payments. Many projects spread payments over a schedule, which can make budgeting more manageable. Confirm the exact schedule in the agreement.
- More choice. Early buyers may have a wider choice of floor, orientation and, in some projects, finishes.
- A new building. Systems and fittings start new, with warranty or after-sales terms if the developer offers them.
The trade-offs are the risk of delay, the possibility that the finished flat differs from the drawings and the cost of paying rent while you wait. Before you book, review our list of 7 things to check before booking an under-construction apartment and the documents to check before buying a flat in Dhaka.
Questions to ask yourself
- When do I need to move in, and what happens to my housing cost if handover is late?
- Can I afford the payment schedule on top of my current rent or other commitments?
- Am I comfortable deciding from plans and a sample flat?
- Will my bank finance this particular project? Ask the bank directly and read our home loan basics first.
A simple way to decide
If you need certainty and a short timeline, a ready apartment is often the more straightforward choice. If you have time and want to spread payments or choose among units, an under-construction apartment may be worth considering, as long as you verify the approvals, the developer’s record and the agreement terms carefully. Whichever you choose, visit in person and get every commitment in writing. For questions about a specific Milestone Group project, browse the property portfolio or contact the team, and confirm details and availability directly.
FAQ
Is a ready flat always more expensive?
Not necessarily. Pricing depends on location, age, specification and market conditions, so compare actual quotations for similar units.
Can I get a home loan for an under-construction apartment?
Policies vary by bank and by project, so ask your bank about eligibility and required documents before you book.
