Thanks to Imre for the brilliant photos. Without them we wouldn't no whats happening as DI don't say much.

Would it be possible to get some photos from the inside of MD3,

Thanks to Imre for the brilliant photos. Without them we wouldn't no whats happening as DI don't say much.

Would it be possible to get some photos from the inside of MD3,

MD3 looking as ready as MD2 was when Imre started to move in. Perhaps they have learnt to get things a little more ready ???????

Looks complete on the outside. Wonder how much work left there is inside?

There's news of the Dubai real estate market cooling off due oversupply. With 7000 JBR apartments entering the market shortly, it's gonna be difficult renting out the MD's.

Any comments?

Has long been predicted that market will cool during 2007/2008. Hoped to recover by 2010 when some of the promised stuff in Dubai is due to be finished. I never bought for short term investment so not really too bothered. Remember it is always location, location, location and Marina will remain a good location.

just got back... Yes. Marina will be a nice location. The metro is also progressing rapidly and you can see the pillars being erecten on the JLT side of SZR from the Marina Diamond 2 balconies.

Received email today from DI saying MD3 will be ready by end of May and expect to confirm handover details in two weeks.

Received email today from DI saying MD3 will be ready by end of May and expect to confirm handover details in two weeks.

How ready? Could one move in on that date? Handing over an unfinished apartment doesn't make much sense, unless of course it's meant to reduce the penalty for late delivery.

04/May/2007

Marina Diamond 4 ,6,5,3

http://img393.imageshack.us/img393/2490/imresolt180pq3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Hi Imre: Thanks for the updates pal. You are doing a great job. Would appreciate any news on MD3. I'm out here in Toronto and unless I book in advance, seats are gonna be difficult to get on any airline outta here.

Thanks for the update Imre!

Can someone in MD2 please confirm the access door to the parking (security lock with magnet) has been fixed?

^^ yes, but B1 is open now, maybe wrong:)

it has been broken for over 3 months now. Has it ever worked properly?

repaired today:)

Hi Imre: Would appreciate any news on MD3?

nothing new.. have you got anything about the handover date?

I received a letter thru the post today from Diamond investments:-

It is our pleasure to inform you that md3 will be delivered by end of May 2007. The applications of DEWA, Civil Defense Certificate and Handover certificates are in process, we are expecting it to be done in two weeks time.
Once we have received the above we will immediately send you a notification regarding the hand-over schedule for your respective apartments.

and sorry for delay etc..

Should be end of August for MD4. Not seen inside of MD3 yet. Are they identical in finish to MD2 ?

Is there anyone who has actually seen MD3 on the inside? Wonder if they are really complete for handover?

About 2 weeks ago the inside of MD3 was still quite a way off completion. We had a friend send us some photos and the reception area was nowhere near ready and the apartments still had quite a way to go - no electricity, the balconies were not finished and generally qiuite a lot to do if they are going to be ready this month!
Would send the photos but not sure how to upload them to this site.

About 2 weeks ago the inside of MD3 was still quite a way off completion. We had a friend send us some photos and the reception area was nowhere near ready and the apartments still had quite a way to go - no electricity, the balconies were not finished and generally qiuite a lot to do if they are going to be ready this month!
Would send the photos but not sure how to upload them to this site.

Thanks a lot Bongo. I think our friend Imre's the man who can guide us on uploading photos.
I have a feeling these guys are tryin' to rush things through to minimize on the compensation they are obliged to pay for late delivery.
Once they've recieved the final instalment, what incentive is there for them to do anything after that? Something to worry about or can one make the payment after the work's been done?
They haven't said a word about the maintenance fee either; will the chiller charges be extra?

Uploading is fairly straight forward.

you need to visit http://www.imageshack.us/ and click on upload image.

Then you click on browse and navigate to the picture on your hard drive or connected camera. Click on [open]

Then click on [Host it] to upload the image.

When it has been uploaded you will be presented with options for how you want to show the picture.

I recommend selecting "Hot link for forums 1 or 2" Once selected you have to copy the link to this thread.

http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/227/avatarut4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Easy!

Thanks True Blue -I'll try copying the links.
These were taken a couple of weeks ago:-
http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/9540/image007zw0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/4724/image004bl8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/2380/image005sv9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Looks like another building going up - There goes the view!
http://img518.imageshack.us/img518/7237/image006yp4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
They seem to come out too big - trying to figure how to resize them.

There is a resize option on imageshack, use the drop down window to select the prefered size before clicking host it.

Nice photos btw. :applause:

Thanks Bongo. Are these pics of MD3? I wonder if they'll leave the wiring hanging or provide the light fixtures? You may want to re-size the pic.
Well done.
I think end-June it should be ready; just a guess.

Yes Salmander - MD3 a couple of weeks ago - I might be able to get some more photos in a couple of weeks.
I think you're right about end of June at the earliest 'specially considering the snagging which will probably take a while!
Not too keen on the furniture from Marlin so will try to contact them and maybe change it. Does anyone have a contact number for Marlin?

Yes Salmander - MD3 a couple of weeks ago - I might be able to get some more photos in a couple of weeks.
I think you're right about end of June at the earliest 'specially considering the snagging which will probably take a while!
Not too keen on the furniture from Marlin so will try to contact them and maybe change it. Does anyone have a contact number for Marlin?

Thanks again Bongo. Marlin I believe is part of some Moosa Group. Their Tel: (+9714) 338 6866.

Link: http://www.aaagroup.com/ click on Marlin Furniture.

Good luck with Marlin. Diamond people got them to contact me three weeks ago for my address. They tried twice on phone. I have e-mailed them twice at info@marlinhomes.ae but have yet to receive a catalogue to order furniture. Marlin do excellent furniture but choice for MD's seems a bit cheap

Received Marlin catalogue in post today. Furniture for MD's is the cheapest stuff they do. Wood is all laminated.

Hoping to make choice and pay the difference.

I used Marlin for my MD2 studio. Not too happy about the quality and style but perfect for the first years of letting. I will rip out everything in a couple of years but the Marlin offer was nice to get started.

I am using a proper interior designer for my MD5 and MD6 units. I found an English lady who takes care of EVERYTHING.

You just have to bring your clothes and you are home! The style is also personalised (unlike Marlin) and she will ask what your purpose is for the apartment and buy furniture accordingly (i.e. buy to let, holiday home for family, etc.)

I feel that this is absolutely a better offer than Marlin does. If you need more information, let me know via pm or drop me a message on skype (martijnw)and I'll put you in touch with her.

I opted for the MD IV with furniture - but I wanted to know if the apartments come fitted with Fridge, Stove, dishwasher, clothes washer/dryer ?

Also, which Dubai agency is capable of doing a check of the standards and items provided compared to what was stated in the contract ?

Thanks

MD3 handover begins in June , they are making the lobby and landscaping.
DEWA connection also over there.
I will post pics on Friday...

MD3 handover begins in June , they are making the lobby and landscaping.
DEWA connection also over there.
I will post pics on Friday...

Thank you for the update Imre and look forward to seeing the pics.

18/May/2007

Marina Diamond 3

as I said before , DEWA is there , should be ready in June

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/4480/imresolt043ir5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/1848/imresolt044yk6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/9350/imresolt045mv3.th.jpg (http://img120.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt045mv3.jpg)http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/818/imresolt048iy6.th.jpg (http://img516.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt048iy6.jpg)http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/4036/imresolt050yp4.th.jpg (http://img82.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt050yp4.jpg)http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/6255/imresolt051um4.th.jpg (http://img516.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt051um4.jpg)
http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/8029/imresolt052vz4.th.jpg (http://img503.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt052vz4.jpg)http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/7677/imresolt053iu0.th.jpg (http://img82.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt053iu0.jpg)

18/May/2007

Marina Diamond 4

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/8582/imresolt027dz6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/4196/imresolt028wp3.th.jpg (http://img82.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt028wp3.jpg)http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/6073/imresolt029an6.th.jpg (http://img82.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt029an6.jpg)http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/1513/imresolt247zv9.th.jpg (http://img120.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt247zv9.jpg)

18/May/2007

Marina Diamond 5

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/9136/imresolt033bg2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/4275/imresolt041bu8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

18/May/2007

Marina Diamond 6

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/9954/imresolt030qj0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/2596/imresolt031sg5.th.jpg (http://img256.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt031sg5.jpg)http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/9965/imresolt032yo5.th.jpg (http://img120.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imresolt032yo5.jpg)

all of Diamonds site working on Friday

all of Diamonds site working on Friday

Thanks for the pics Imre. Great job!

22/May/2007

Marina Diamond 2 ,roof

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/470/imresolt17wi0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img50.imageshack.us/img50/5848/imresolt24wh4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/8370/imresolt29ms8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

23/May/2007

Marina Diamonds from Time Place

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/7757/imresolt076cm8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/1317/imresolt088cu1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/9250/imresolt089rr4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/7879/imresolt094jk0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/7787/imresolt095hv1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

24/May/2007

Marina Diamond 2 from Almas Tower

http://i10.tinypic.com/4lslc1i.jpg

Received below email from Diamond Investment. Surprisingly they do not mention 0.5% penalty per month.

Any advice from owners of MD1 and MD2 with regards the handover would be appreciated.

**********************************************************


We are very pleased to inform you that Marina Diamond III is completed and would be ready for hand-over starting from 1st June 2007.



In order to have a smooth process, and due to the number of flats to be delivered, we are scheduling the hand-over into two phases:



Phase 1: handing-over of unfurnished flats between 1st-10th June 2007.

Phase 2: handing-over of furnished flats between 11th -20th June 2007.



For your convenience, we do encourage you to book a proper date/time of your site visit and inspection with our Customer Care Department.



Please contact Ms. Avantika Narula

Tel: 00971 4 2869699, ext. 213

E-mail: handover@diamond-investments.ae



Ms. Karla Tenerife

Tel: 00971 4 2869699, ext. 211

E-mail: customerservice@diamond-investments.ae

admin1@diamond-investments.ae





Moreover, to ensure timely handover, you are kindly requested to settle the balance amount and service charges prior to delivery.





We would like to congratulate and welcome you to the Marina Diamond family.





Best regards



Diamond Investments L.L.C.

i think mineme bought one a while ago..

Received below email from Diamond Investment. Surprisingly they do not mention 0.5% penalty per month.

Any advice from owners of MD1 and MD2 with regards the handover would be appreciated.

**********************************************************


We are very pleased to inform you that Marina Diamond III is completed and would be ready for hand-over starting from 1st June 2007.



In order to have a smooth process, and due to the number of flats to be delivered, we are scheduling the hand-over into two phases:



Phase 1: handing-over of unfurnished flats between 1st-10th June 2007.

Phase 2: handing-over of furnished flats between 11th -20th June 2007.



For your convenience, we do encourage you to book a proper date/time of your site visit and inspection with our Customer Care Department.



Please contact Ms. Avantika Narula

Tel: 00971 4 2869699, ext. 213

E-mail: handover@diamond-investments.ae



Ms. Karla Tenerife

Tel: 00971 4 2869699, ext. 211

E-mail: customerservice@diamond-investments.ae

admin1@diamond-investments.ae





Moreover, to ensure timely handover, you are kindly requested to settle the balance amount and service charges prior to delivery.





We would like to congratulate and welcome you to the Marina Diamond family.





Best regards



Diamond Investments L.L.C.

Thanks all for this update. It is also suprising that they want final payment before snagging. Is this normal. I thought that final payment is only made after snagging is fixed. Maybe I am mistaken. But I also agree that they should clearly mention what is the compensation for this 6 month delay. It is my understanding that D1 and D2 residents got monthly compensation. for every month delayed. Any advice or feedback would be great. Many thanks.

I don't think that DI are into paying out compensation for delay.

For example, for MD1 they claimed 'force majeure' as a justifiable excuse for the late handover.

It's all a bit vague to me! - does this mean that they want the balance paid up and the snagging done during those dates? Surely we don't pay until all the faults have been rectified??
Incidentally can anyone recommend a good company to do the snagging?

@Bongoboots

here you are :http://www.gigshortstay.com/images/gigshortstay.com-snagging.pdf

I don't think that DI are into paying out compensation for delay.

For example, for MD1 they claimed 'force majeure' as a justifiable excuse for the late handover.

"Force Majeure"? Were they serious? and did they get away with it?
Did the Tsunami hit Dubai and nobody but DI was aware of it?

I understood from earlier postings that they did pay compensations for MD2. Can anybody confirm that please?

How much does snagging cost? and is it worth it?

I mean
How much do agents charge for a snagging report and is it worth it.

^^ Pay Imre and he will do it for you :)

How about .............Pay Imre to take some photographs and forward them to you and you can do the snagging whilst sitting comfortably on your sofa!!!!:cheers:

On a serious note you need to be in Dubai for a minimum of 2-3 weeks whilst snagging!!!! If you want somebody else to do it then decent companies charge around 2000-3000 AED

How could Imre possibly fit anything more in his hectic schedule of photographing every single building in Dubai!

2000-3000 AED, I might as well come over from London and do it myself.:)

changed the status of MD3 on emporis to complete

^^:master: :master:

How could Imre possibly fit anything more in his hectic schedule of photographing every single building in Dubai!

2000-3000 AED, I might as well come over from London and do it myself.:)


That is what we did for MD1 and MD2. Two weeks did not get everything done.
I know some had to make two trips!!

^^ Tosh if you dont mind answering, how is your short term rental going? What kinda occupancy are you getting on an average?

^^ Pay Imre and he will do it for you :)

Thanks:) it is difficult now because my mother and sister here and we have lot of programs..

That is what we did for MD1 and MD2. Two weeks did not get everything done.
I know some had to make two trips!!

Yeah your right, it would save alot of hassle. The agent I bought the apt from said he will do it.

Now that MD3 is being handed over. Can someone get photos of the public areas.i.e. Corridors and entrance hall. Are they different to MD2 & MD1. Is the finish any better ? Can anyone provide photos of finished apartments in any of the Diamonds now that they are being rented or lived in. Are people really getting 7000 aed (£1000 ) a week for holiday lets for 2 bed, as some of the web-sites are suggesting. Any info greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Marina Diamond 7 is coming:)

this is not freehold , 4 star hotel apartments with 200 rooms .
G+13 floors
plot: next to Marina Diamond 1
completion: end of 2008

Than we should open a new thread with it!!

^^ no, this thread is sufficient

07/June/2007

Marina Diamond 6 , 5 , 3 and the new bridge from Goldcrest

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/8707/imresolt089iw7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Is there nothing to say on thread anymore !!! Are we all bored of Diamonds ?

is there gonna be another tower between the canal and MD3?

is there gonna be another tower between the canal and MD3?

I take it that 'Canal' is your new name for Marina at this point. No tower in front of MD3. It will be a beautifully landscaped access point to Marina Promenade.

^^ Isn't english your first language? If yes, you'd know that what I was referring to isn't a "marina" but rather a "marina canal"

having said that, I think it's great that abt half of MD3 will have unblocked "marina" views

^^ ^^

Sorry thought you were being rude about Diamond again. Implying that, in that area, Marina is more like a Canal than a proper Marina.

Any info on MDIII handovers, are they going any better than I & II ?

Has anybody visited MD3 lately? a friend went there a couple of weeks ago and said the reception area was a long way from finished! Is anyone planning to move in at handover?

Sorry thought you were being rude about Diamond again

When was I ever "rude" about the Diamonds??

When was I ever "rude" about the Diamonds??

When were you ever rude about anything? You big girl's blouse!

Subscribe to Naz's next seminar on how to upset and really offend the fu**ers on the forum, 5 minute course. Only $2, thats less than a £, nearly, cheap at half the price.

When were you ever rude about anything? You big girl's blouse!

Come to think about it, yea.. when was I rude about anything? :D

any ideas when MD5 and 6 will be ready? DI told me MD5 is finished in September, I think it will more be like december? There is still an awfull lot to do and knowing DI, the tend to announce months in advance that the building is ready so they can avoid late fees. :)

15/June/2007

Marina Diamond 4

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/5669/imresolt034al7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Marina Diamond 6

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/9922/imresolt036gx7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/2908/imresolt038me7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Marina Diamond 5

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/9916/imresolt040sj6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/4060/imresolt044uy1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Marina Diamond 3

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/3658/imresolt046hr2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/4918/imresolt047vl0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/5505/imresolt048qv9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/9053/imresolt049ms6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/5926/imresolt050qf2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

is there gonna be another tower between the canal and MD3?

I saw the site today, at the moment MD3 has a marina view but I think front of MD3 coming another tower, next to Marinascape, not a big plot but enough for a building.
That plot use the Trident now, offices, storage , etc...

^^ It may have room for another building but I'm sure it's designated as an open space on the plot layout. Most of these inshots, ingles or canals are open spaces to allow glimpses of the marina by passing cars etc. All adds to the feel of the place.

Need some advice please anyone? I plan to travel to Dubai this week or next week to finalize handover. I have been in touch with better homes to help me with handover. I has told me that I need to make final payment before visiting apt. Better Homes are saying that there should be pre-inspection or snagging before final payment is made. Any feedback is highly appreciated from anyone. Many thanks Best regards,

I dont know about the interiors, but the exterior quality of MD3 looks great.. it reminds me of the golden sands buildings when they were just completed more than a decade ago.. nothing extravagant.. just simple quality residential buildings

Need some advice please anyone? I plan to travel to Dubai this week or next week to finalize handover. I have been in touch with better homes to help me with handover. I has told me that I need to make final payment before visiting apt. Better Homes are saying that there should be pre-inspection or snagging before final payment is made. Any feedback is highly appreciated from anyone. Many thanks Best regards,


I think, before you coming better to call the Diamond Investments about the handover.
After snagging you have to pay the last payment after you will get keys.

I dont know about the interiors, but the exterior quality of MD3 looks great.. it reminds me of the golden sands buildings when they were just completed more than a decade ago.. nothing extravagant.. just simple quality residential buildings


Quality is better than MD1 and MD2 , all of Diamonds are a middle class building with very good rental income.

Need some advice please anyone? I plan to travel to Dubai this week or next week to finalize handover. I have been in touch with better homes to help me with handover. I has told me that I need to make final payment before visiting apt. Better Homes are saying that there should be pre-inspection or snagging before final payment is made. Any feedback is highly appreciated from anyone. Many thanks Best regards,

Hi! I have to warn you for Bhomes as I have complaints from MD2 owners that where left out in the cold by Bhomes (what's in a name?) where they took the money for snagging but DID NOT DO ANYTHING AT ALL IN 6 MONTHS TIME!

Seriously... You are better off with ANY OTHER AGENT than selecting better homes. In a seriously hot market they only managed 2 weeks rental in 6 months time! Be carefull!

If you want references to verify that I am not bullshitting, PM me and I will give you email address for you to verify yourself.

BHOMES IS BAAAAAAAAD! Skip 'm if you can.

I have to agree that Bhomes have very strong brand recognition but are not efficient at all. Trying to sell your unit or buy from them is useless. Either they are too busy and don't have time for customers or they are just ignorant.

Many thanks for your info minime and jdr75. Can you please tell me what other agents have proven to be better than Bhomes since I dont have any contacts in Dubai and have only found Bhomes on the internet. Many thanks in advance to you and anyone on the fourm who can give advice on this matter.

^^ There are a few people on this forum that provide snagging services, sorry I can't recall which. Have a look through the JBR thread. It has been mentioned on there a number of times.

Good Luck!

Many thanks for your info minime and jdr75. Can you please tell me what other agents have proven to be better than Bhomes since I dont have any contacts in Dubai and have only found Bhomes on the internet. Many thanks in advance to you and anyone on the fourm who can give advice on this matter.

These have been recommended on forum

http://www.gigshortstay.com/images/gigshortstay.com-snagging.pdf

Their report looks very professional

sorry. wrong thread.

Hi! I have to warn you for Bhomes as I have complaints from MD2 owners that where left out in the cold by Bhomes (what's in a name?) where they took the money for snagging but DID NOT DO ANYTHING AT ALL IN 6 MONTHS TIME!

Seriously... You are better off with ANY OTHER AGENT than selecting better homes. In a seriously hot market they only managed 2 weeks rental in 6 months time! Be carefull!

If you want references to verify that I am not bullshitting, PM me and I will give you email address for you to verify yourself.

BHOMES IS BAAAAAAAAD! Skip 'm if you can.


Can you suggest a good agent for snagging?

Hi! I have to warn you for Bhomes as I have complaints from MD2 owners that where left out in the cold by Bhomes (what's in a name?) where they took the money for snagging but DID NOT DO ANYTHING AT ALL IN 6 MONTHS TIME!

Seriously... You are better off with ANY OTHER AGENT than selecting better homes. In a seriously hot market they only managed 2 weeks rental in 6 months time! Be carefull!

If you want references to verify that I am not bullshitting, PM me and I will give you email address for you to verify yourself.

BHOMES IS BAAAAAAAAD! Skip 'm if you can.

On the contrary, my experience with Betterhomes was absolutely fantastic with regards to selling my MDII unit. Got in touch with them 1st week of Feb, and apt was sold 1st week of MAy. I was very pleased with the sales agent correspondences, professionalism and to be honest, I was glad to be dealing with a registered company regard than the many "one man" so-called sales agent who try to cash in on commission payments. Nothing wrong with them, but all you have to trace them is a dodge email address. Anyways, if you fancy selling your Unit, contact Lynn Rowley at the Betterhomes Dubai Marina branch. I felt in good with her handling the sale of my apartment.

With regards to snagging, I used the trouble-shotting service of jgdubai http://www.jgdubai.com/services.htm. Cost me £160 UK pounds at the time (last year December). Not good/Not bad but offered me initial photos of the apt. Reported defects were communicated to DI, and were subsequently fixed. A free follow-up snagging inspection confirmed the apt defects were fixed. Honestly, I strongly advise all those planning on flying to Dubai to pick up apt keys to have someone to either snag the apt or at least to see what state it is in before u book your flight. You may simply end up booking another flight at a later date to do the handover.
All the best guys/gals

^^ ^^

Out of interest what type of apartment did you sale and what price did you get. Current advertised prices are so varied that it is impossible to gage true market value. Have recently seen an ad for 1,450,000 aed for two bed in a MD, seems really, really high to me.

^^ ^^

Out of interest what type of apartment did you sale and what price did you get. Current advertised prices are so varied that it is impossible to gage true market value. Have recently seen an ad for 1,450,000 aed for two bed in a MD, seems really, really high to me.

I say put your price out there and see what interest people show. Landmark properties initially valued the apt at 1million AED. This I was quick to reduce when no interested parties came forward. Something to be aware of in selling the MD is that most of the banks are reluctant to offer finance towards the MD developments. Perhaps, someone else has some thing to say about this. Hence potential buyers have to be cash buyers. This i learnt hindered the sale of my apt.
Anyways, apt was a 1BR and was sold for twice as much as I originally paid for the unit. The key selling point of the MDII apt is that the apts are ready and fully furnished.

^^ ^^

Diamond have updated their web-site :banana: :banana:

Logging on to their partner area shows them reselling a 2 bed apt in MD3 & MD4 at 1,300,000 a.e.d. These are higher prices than those in MD5 & MD6, suggesting Diamond think that these are their best two blocks. Probably due to Marina views.

please contact me if any of u direct owners r looking for a buyer... bcoz im searching for 1 or 2 bedroom apartment in MD buildings at reasonable price only.
arshi111@eim.ae

please contact me if any of u direct owners r looking for a buyer... bcoz im searching for 1 or 2 bedroom apartment in MD buildings at reasonable price only.
arshi111@eim.ae

Go to Diamond Investments direct if you want a fair price. Their prices reflect market rates but have no third party commissions attached. Speak to Pia.

I say put your price out there and see what interest people show. Landmark properties initially valued the apt at 1million AED. This I was quick to reduce when no interested parties came forward. Something to be aware of in selling the MD is that most of the banks are reluctant to offer finance towards the MD developments. Perhaps, someone else has some thing to say about this. Hence potential buyers have to be cash buyers. This i learnt hindered the sale of my apt.
Anyways, apt was a 1BR and was sold for twice as much as I originally paid for the unit. The key selling point of the MDII apt is that the apts are ready and fully furnished.

"Banks reluctant to offer finance towards the MD" Maybe they told you this so that you can reduce your price. Sorry to say this but even if you sold for twice as much I think you sold for very cheap, look at prices being offered. And many are using finance through banks, so banks are not reluctant to finance MD!!! Anyway no reason to feel bad since you got good profit. And how long did you wait till you realized that no interested parties, it sometimes takes a while to sell since many new projects are still coming out.

Received the following email from DI with regards final payment for MD3:

Please accept my sincere apologies for the delay in my reply. Your final payment is 173,037/ -AED and for the service charges is 12,463/ -AED. ( AED 6/sq.ft + GAS AED 1/sq.ft + monthly chiller AED 450/-). We will pay to you compensation for the delay after handover.

I am surprised they want to pay the compensation after handover or they try to get out of paying it. Personally I think the compensation should be deducted from the final payment.

Also not sure of the service charge. what is the gas charge for. Can anyone advice.

Gas charge is the same as in MD2 , it has central gas system , you pay 1 AED/sqft and you can use as much as you want .

seems they increased the maintanance , we pay 5 AED/sqft , MD3 already 6 .

Diamond said today MDIV handover due to start from 1 Aug. Has anyone received any communication in writing. Also advised us that cut off date for cancelling furniture was 21 May as explained in their e-mail. We have received no info from Diamond for two years other than proofs of payment which we had to demand on several occassions. Can anyone supply copies of these communications.

"Banks reluctant to offer finance towards the MD" Maybe they told you this so that you can reduce your price. Sorry to say this but even if you sold for twice as much I think you sold for very cheap, look at prices being offered. And many are using finance through banks, so banks are not reluctant to finance MD!!! Anyway no reason to feel bad since you got good profit. And how long did you wait till you realized that no interested parties, it sometimes takes a while to sell since many new projects are still coming out.

No doubt - quite happy with my sell price as the overall finish of MDII to me was of relatively very low quality. Not bashing, just my personal opinion. Quick sell was the key here as the handover dates for JBR and other high profile developments were fast approaching.

^^ ^^

Have not seen evidence of 1 bed MD being worth more than 900 aed. So you seem to have got a fair price. Does anybody have any evidence to the contrary.

I have looked at various sources and it does appear that the Marina Diamonds have close to doubled in value, compared to the original builders price. I'd call that unusual for any region of the world, except of course Pakistan where prices have appreciated more than a thousand percent over the last 4 years. Don't ask me why. Go ask a psychic!

Now to another matter. Any news on MD3 would be appreciated. Have people moved in?

Diamond said today MDIV handover due to start from 1 Aug. Has anyone received any communication in writing. Also advised us that cut off date for cancelling furniture was 21 May as explained in their e-mail. We have received no info from Diamond for two years other than proofs of payment which we had to demand on several occassions. Can anyone supply copies of these communications.

Same problems here. Never received a single email from DI. I never got a 'ready for handover note' either. Numerous requests for a single payment receipt and then they manage to send a totally wrong receipt.

I had to find out through this forum that my apt was ready or I'd still be waiting today.

Diamond said today MDIV handover due to start from 1 Aug. Has anyone received any communication in writing. Also advised us that cut off date for cancelling furniture was 21 May as explained in their e-mail. We have received no info from Diamond for two years other than proofs of payment which we had to demand on several occassions. Can anyone supply copies of these communications.

yes it is possible, started to make the lobby area, should be ready soon.

Diamond have now confirmed by e-mail that we cannot cancel furniture. As we have not ordered it on their web-site I fail to see what their problem is. They have not spent any money on it yet. Besides they have never advised us that we were meant to be ordering it. They promised luxurious apartments, as shown in glossy brochures, Marlin offer comes nowhere near. We did e-mail them to try and cancel but surprise,surprise they did not answer

They very nicely stated that if we do not make our choices soon then Marlin will do it for us. These handover people have certainly been on the old British Rail customer service training.

I have heard that D3 will only be liveable only in three weeks time and that the parking and the lobby are not ready. Anyone seen D3 yet and can confirm or clarify this. Many thanks

Once snagging list is given to DI how long does it take for them to make repairs. People in D1+2 can you please tell us how long it took. Many thanks.

I had a snagging in the MD2 on 1st of October and I moved 8th of November , I wat the firt resident there.

I had a snagging in the MD2 on 1st of October and I moved 8th of November , I wat the firt resident there.

Please remind us. When did you pay final balance.

after the snagging, after I got keys but I moved just later because we had to wait the Dubai Municipality and the Civil Defence permit.

Once snagging list is given to DI how long does it take for them to make repairs. People in D1+2 can you please tell us how long it took. Many thanks.

Yes, Imre was lucky. My MD2 studio took 3 month because when they wrote that handover was ready, I still did not have a ceiling! Simon (MD2) had to wait for 6 months! But...., That was due to b-homes pocketing his money and not doing anything in return....

The marlin furniture is crap, I totally agree but is ok to get you started. I never got any message either and had to find out from one of the users at me web site (www.dreamingdubai.com) :ohno:

DI is terrible to deal with but once you've got the key..... It's a diamond of a lifestyle. he he he. :banana: :banana: :banana:

I think that the communist style customer service is not just DI. I have had the strangest experiences dealing with MAG, Damac, DI and Armada group and in the end decided to take a :cheers: , blame 'cultural differences' and called it a day. Yes... I was fed-up (see my rants and raves elsewhere on this forum) but am a happy consumer now. :lol:

Quality is better than MD1 and MD2 , all of Diamonds are a middle class building with very good rental income.

I've owned a 1BR in MD6 since 2005.



At the time I looked at all the developments in Dubai, and was about to buy in International City until I found the MDs. I chose it mainly because of the Marina location apt size and above all price.

For a long time I felt that I had scored a serious bargain and I must admit since buying, I've not been shopping about to see if there are better apts available.

I am getting slightly nervous reading post after post over the years questioning quality value and every other aspect of the MDs.

Some of the pics people have kindly posted make them look like high end U.K new build properties, and being on a Marina would make them desirable beyond imagination.

Am I missing the point. Are other properties available finished in gold and diamoinds as I have real difficulty imagining what fittings/location and features other properties have that make some people regard the MDs as almost slum housing.

P.S

I'd like to offer many thanks to everyone that takes the time to post pictures, as without you guys, all I would have seen of my purchase would be the plan drawings and my imagination.

I don't want to appear pushy, but do we have any more new interior pictures of the MD's.

Finally did anyone manage to hide that MONSTROSITY of a gas pipe that ran down the kitchen wall.

I know this is covering old ground, but for those that purcchased in MD 1 and 2; did you pay your final payment after the snagging was complete or before? Is it standard as in Imre's case that you pay the final payment after snagging or is it always when the developer say all is done - then you do snagging afterwards.

What if it takes you 3 months to sort out your snagging, are we saying the developers wait that long to take the payment, and just wait until you are ready? And clarification would be great.

23/June/2007

Marina Diamond 7 (Hotel) from JBR


http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/659/imresolt073gr5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Imre, what is the latest on MD3? I got a letter about handing-over; but nothing specific so far. Have you any idea if people have actually got possession or have moved in?

Thanks

yes, they are furnishing the MD3 now, Marlin's workers there,I saw curtains there.
I have no idea about the permit of the Dunai Municipality and Civil Defence, if that is ready , MD3 is ready for moving.

SNAGGING

Currently have details of two recomendations:

www.jgdubai.com & www.gigshortstay.com

Any others that are known to do a good job ?

Can now add www.anevdubai.com as recommended by Diamond. The most expensive as they are UK based.

Just had snagging done and unfortunately this was not the best of experiences. Arrived with the snagging company entry was refused, firstly for not having keys and then because an appointment had not been made. The staff were extremely rude and arrogant! The snagging was then carried out the next day and the building and apartments are still a way off completion. It seems the refusal of entry was a delaying tactic in order to quickly fit some appliances into the apartment because none of the other apartments seemed to have any appliances in them whatsoever.
These are some observations-
1. Grouting appalling
2. Some areas no grouting finished
3. Gas cupboard not sealed with insullation tape (so if leak goes straight in cupboard then flat)
4. Leak under sink (waste pipe fitted downwards so water fights to get out) will lead to smells
5. Cracked tiles in numerous places - bathroom, entrance and kitchen floor
6. Peep hole not fitted
7. Scratches on front door
8. Chipped bath tup altho nicely filled
9. Water heater not working
10. Only supplied 2 bulbs instead of 4 in kitchen lights
11. No silicon under patio doors
12. Kichen ceiling wonky from cemented section to false ceiling
13. Fire sprinkler away from ceiling and been nicely smashed with hammer? Obviously to make it fit
14. Kitchen cupboard only opens 2 inches as they have sandwiched hinges to front door frame. (only skinny arms allowed in there)
15.Water comes out from under kitchen units esp. when we put on washing machine
16. Needs another coat of paint four hand marks plus looks like only one coat put on from start
17. Lifts have not been approved - still have covering on and someone manning them - only one out of three is for the public the other 2 are being used for the workers. There is still a full team of workers there.
18. Could not get to see the pool? Where is it? Roof? Where I thought the pool was last time is parking spaces?


Good points

1. A/C working
2. Water working

I have photos to back all these points up and may post them later if anyone is interested.
Also ,has anyone been able to get onto the Marlin website because it seems to have gone down and they have started moving furniture in despite the fact that we haven't been able to choose any!
On the positive side the building will be great when finally completed.
Sorry for this being such a negative posting.

Here are some general photo's of the interior of the building, defects and view. I also have some of the snagging defects in the apartment if anyone is interested?!
View from reception. http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/4368/fromreceptiondoorsxd4.th.jpg (http://img409.imageshack.us/my.php?image=fromreceptiondoorsxd4.jpg)Ceiling hallway.http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/7921/ceilinginhallwaykn8.th.jpg (http://img409.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ceilinginhallwaykn8.jpg)Hallway of 9th floor.http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/8066/hallwayof9thflooriv5.th.jpg (http://img409.imageshack.us/my.php?image=hallwayof9thflooriv5.jpg) Lift ground floor.http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/8408/liftgroundflooroa1.th.jpg (http://img187.imageshack.us/my.php?image=liftgroundflooroa1.jpg) Lift -not certified.http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/2959/liftnotcertifiedam8.th.jpg (http://img409.imageshack.us/my.php?image=liftnotcertifiedam8.jpg)view from reception.http://img264.imageshack.us/img264/6808/viewfromreceptionle3.th.jpg (http://img264.imageshack.us/my.php?image=viewfromreceptionle3.jpg)Unfinished reception.http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/4594/unfinishedreceptionqr2.th.jpg (http://img402.imageshack.us/my.php?image=unfinishedreceptionqr2.jpg)

Bongoboots

Who did snagging ?

why were the staff so bloody rude for their own job?

hope you did not pay them then...?:ohno:



Just had snagging done and unfortunately this was not the best of experiences. Arrived with the snagging company entry was refused, firstly for not having keys and then because an appointment had not been made. The staff were extremely rude and arrogant! The snagging was then carried out the next day and the building and apartments are still a way off completion. It seems the refusal of entry was a delaying tactic in order to quickly fit some appliances into the apartment because none of the other apartments seemed to have any appliances in them whatsoever.
These are some observations-
1. Grouting appalling
2. Some areas no grouting finished
3. Gas cupboard not sealed with insullation tape (so if leak goes straight in cupboard then flat)
4. Leak under sink (waste pipe fitted downwards so water fights to get out) will lead to smells
5. Cracked tiles in numerous places - bathroom, entrance and kitchen floor
6. Peep hole not fitted
7. Scratches on front door
8. Chipped bath tup altho nicely filled
9. Water heater not working
10. Only supplied 2 bulbs instead of 4 in kitchen lights
11. No silicon under patio doors
12. Kichen ceiling wonky from cemented section to false ceiling
13. Fire sprinkler away from ceiling and been nicely smashed with hammer? Obviously to make it fit
14. Kitchen cupboard only opens 2 inches as they have sandwiched hinges to front door frame. (only skinny arms allowed in there)
15.Water comes out from under kitchen units esp. when we put on washing machine
16. Needs another coat of paint four hand marks plus looks like only one coat put on from start
17. Lifts have not been approved - still have covering on and someone manning them - only one out of three is for the public the other 2 are being used for the workers. There is still a full team of workers there.
18. Could not get to see the pool? Where is it? Roof? Where I thought the pool was last time is parking spaces?


Good points

1. A/C working
2. Water working

I have photos to back all these points up and may post them later if anyone is interested.
Also ,has anyone been able to get onto the Marlin website because it seems to have gone down and they have started moving furniture in despite the fact that we haven't been able to choose any!
On the positive side the building will be great when finally completed.
Sorry for this being such a negative posting.

We went and saw our apartment 10 days ago to look what snagging needed done. We were a bit shocked as the last guy was with the amount of snagging and the general lack of quality in the finishings! I wrote a 3 page list of defects and gave it to the Engineer at MD 3. He looked at bit phased and asked if i was in the construction industry as there were really specific items needing repaired or replaced. I'm not - just look for what I paid for to be done. It looked as if there had been some sort of water damage in the kitchen and bathroom! We have since returned to our apartment this weekend and were pleasantly surprised by the snagging efforts which have been taking place. They are not finished yet but the major defects which were noted have been dealt with - to our relief. The personnel at DI offices have been extremely helpful (especially the HR Manager) in helping us through the finalization process and I urge you to go and visit them if you are in Dubai (that phonecall is just not the same - but people who cannot; feel reassured that this is not a cowboy outfit trying to rip you off). The building is not fully complete and I don't think it will be completely finished until another 1-2 months although it is liveable; infact there are 6 apartments already being used. We have a small child so we are waiting until it is fully complete. The gymnasium is fantastic - all the equipment has been installed and it's massive, The sauna and steam rooms are pretty much complete but i don't think they will be switched on until the whole building has been handed over. Over all people - there is still some work to be done on MD3 but I feel that when it is complete it will definately be an excellent place to live and own as an investment - one of the 1 bedrooms is being leased for 100,000aed per annum - Nice little earner. We've got our keys and I'm pleased as punch - seeing as when we first purchased back in 2005 we made a comment to ourseleves saying there will be 2 things that could happen. 1. "Welcome to MD 3 here are your new apartment keys" or 2. "Who are you - No we don't have any record of you buying an apartment with us!" - We got the right result in the end. Thanks to all of you who have contributed to the forum whilst the building process was ongoing.

May at Diamond continues to provide best customer service. She has confirmed that Marlin furniture is cancelled. Has also recommended UK based snagging company at www.anevdubai.com. Price at over £1000 seems expensive but she says they do really good job and give Diamond real hassle to get apartments in perfect order.

^^ £1000 pounds to walk through an apt, spot poor finishings, document it and take a few photos to back it up. I could do this and be perfect at it after 3-5 snagging inspections + can download a snagging template off the internet. They must be mad - no surprise it's a British company.. rip off British business mentality seems to be spreading across the globe.

^^ agreed..

now where can I find a snagging template customized for Dubai Marina :D

Try these guys. I think they charge around £150-£175. Mention DubaiPads so I can get some brownie points :-)

UK: +44 7817 152 771

Dubai: +971 509 43 6575

paul.robinett@2dubai.co.uk

Snagging was done by Fix R Us - and they seem very good.
It was the jobsworth on the door of MD3 who was incredibly rude not the snagging guys.

Diamond Investments have told me it is too late to choose furniture and Marlin will do it.
I am not happy with this at all and want to choose it myself so does anyone know who I can speak to at Marlin or DI to get this matter sorted out?

26/June/2007

Marina Diamond 7 ,board

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/4850/imresolt36ws0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/3484/imresolt37pb2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Hey Imre, is this going to be a hotel or serviced appartments. I am asking cause if it was a hotel, this meant another place in the vicinity to have diner with wine.
First Diamond with a pool on an upper level!! + it looks like there is one on the roof, too.

Got pics of all the rooms from my agent. Everything seems okay, except for a bit of plaster coming loose. The furniture's been delivered; some of it needs assembling.

The agent hasn't charged me anything. I wonder why anyone would pay someone to note down the snags/defects?

Hi
Is there anyone with a 1 bed or studio in MD2 renting out? I have a 1 bed rented for 75k which I think is a little low and am buying a studio at the moment. If anyone on these boards is renting out I would be grateful to know what sort of rent you are getting and who is managing it for you.

thanks in advance

Hi
Is there anyone with a 1 bed or studio in MD2 renting out? I have a 1 bed rented for 75k which I think is a little low and am buying a studio at the moment. If anyone on these boards is renting out I would be grateful to know what sort of rent you are getting and who is managing it for you.

thanks in advance


Is your apt. furnished? The rent for furnished one-bed I believe is around 100K.

Hi
yes its furnished. I think we were done a bit by the estate agent - who was also the one that sold it to us, so I'm looking for one that could get a good rent for the studio. I've also got a 1 bed in MD4 which I would want around 100k if i could find a good letting agent.

Dave

Hi
Is there anyone with a 1 bed or studio in MD2 renting out? I have a 1 bed rented for 75k which I think is a little low and am buying a studio at the moment. If anyone on these boards is renting out I would be grateful to know what sort of rent you are getting and who is managing it for you.

thanks in advance

MD2 ( all studio and 1 bed fully furnished )

studio 75K , 1 bed (small) 85K , 1 bed 90-95K now , but there is just 2 b/r available at the moment.

MD2 ( all studio and 1 bed fully furnished )

studio 75K , 1 bed (small) 85K , 1 bed 90-95K now , but there is just 2 b/r available at the moment.


2 bed - 125k (furnished)

Thanks guys - all good to hear - can anyone recommend a good letting agent?

thanks

Thanks guys - all good to hear - can anyone recommend a good letting agent?

thanks


Hi Dave: You may if you like contact the following agent; her name's Lucy Berry; please give her my reference ( Shahid Salam):

Email: lucy@thespecialistsdubai.com
Tel Office: +9714 331 2662
Fax Office: +9714 331 2004
Mobile: +97150 7853016

Hi Salmander
Thanks a lot for that. Can you tell me, has she acted for you?
I only ask because I have tried some letting agents who are a bit of a joke and not really serious - you give them your flat to rent and they are more interested in selling you another one.

Hi Salmander
Thanks a lot for that. Can you tell me, has she acted for you?
I only ask because I have tried some letting agents who are a bit of a joke and not really serious - you give them your flat to rent and they are more interested in selling you another one.

Yes she rented out my apartment in La Riviera.


Shahid

29/June/2007

Marina Diamond 4

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/6066/imresolt014hy9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/6310/imresolt015jn0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


Marina Diamond 6

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/6352/imresolt016zd3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/987/imresolt017jo1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


Marina Diamond 5

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/662/imresolt018ro0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/635/imresolt024fl4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


Marina Diamond 3

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/2113/imresolt026an3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

I have asked this question on 2 previous occasions.
With three buildings delivered by DI, all of which were behind schedule, how did DI handle the late penalty payments? Owners of MD1, MD2 and MD3 can help with this.

I received a letter from DI today saying MD4 will be ready at the end of August. This makes it 5 months late delivery. Your feedback on my question will be appreciated.

Thanks.

James

I have asked this question on 2 previous occasions.
With three buildings delivered by DI, all of which were behind schedule, how did DI handle the late penalty payments? Owners of MD1, MD2 and MD3 can help with this.

I received a letter from DI today saying MD4 will be ready at the end of August. This makes it 5 months late delivery. Your feedback on my question will be appreciated.

Thanks.

James

Good question James; they had sent me an e-mail with the final figure, without any breakdown. I asked them about the adjustment for the late delivery and am still waiting for them to get back to me.
If I get delivery in July, it will be six months late.

Also need to know when do DI actually agree apartment is finished. It seems that end of August will be pre-snagging which will take another month. Has anyone got compensation upto when apartment is actually finished.

Also need to know when do DI actually agree apartment is finished. It seems that end of August will be pre-snagging which will take another month. Has anyone got compensation upto when apartment is actually finished.

This business of compensations for late delivery is like a CIA operation. I have never seen an affirmative answer from anybody.
I started to believe that this compensation process is done on a personal basis and the recipient is sworn for secrecy.
I wish somebody from MD-1, MD-2 and MD-3, who has finalized already, would explain this process.
I have written five times to Diamond Investments on this subject and they have never replied.

Good question James; they had sent me an e-mail with the final figure, without any breakdown. I asked them about the adjustment for the late delivery and am still waiting for them to get back to me.
If I get delivery in July, it will be six months late.

Thanks Salmandar,

Don't hold your breath- DI they did not answer my question.
Perhabs they think we will forget about it and it will be swept under the carpet.
It is still a puzzle to me that nobody on this forum is giving us the benefit of their experience.

We were told prior to handover of MD3 that we would be getting 3 months at 0.5% of total price as compensation - At the handover we were then told that all the compensation would be paid out in August once the full handover process was complete. They stated they were only giving 3 months because part of it was not there fault - it had something to do with the government. They did not explain fully what but I will be prying it out of them come August! - Hope this helps a bit

We were told prior to handover of MD3 that we would be getting 3 months at 0.5% of total price as compensation - At the handover we were then told that all the compensation would be paid out in August once the full handover process was complete. They stated they were only giving 3 months because part of it was not there fault - it had something to do with the government. They did not explain fully what but I will be prying it out of them come August! - Hope this helps a bit

Thanks Danae,

I understand from one of the owners of MD1 that they were not paid compensations because of a Force Majore.
Now they blame the government.
Needless to say both claims are without foundation. In fact both claims are an insult to common sense and our intelligence. This is daylight robbery and the Government of Dubai will not tolerate that.
I strongly recommend that the owners appoint a lawyer and take DI to court- DI will pay immediately before we get to court.

Comments from teh "silent Majority" will be welcome.

From Danaef's post it would appear that we pay them the full amount, prior to getting the keys to the apt and the compensation comes later. Not fair, but I guess that's how it is.

As for the 0.5% per month on MD3, I believe on the subsequent MD's this has been raised to 1.5%, i.e. three times as much. Again, tough luck I guess.

James, I think few people may be willing to join in a class action due to the fact that in most cases the intial investments more than doubled, by way of capital appreciation; which is quite phenominal. That's just my opinion.


Sal

I don't know how DI can invoke Force Majeure as a possible reason, because according to the dictionary that includes "act of God, in law, an accident caused by the operation of extraordinary natural force. An act of God, however, is so extraordinary and devoid of human agency that reasonable care would not avoid the consequences; hence, the injured party has no right to damages. Accidents caused by tornadoes, perils of the sea, extraordinary floods, and severe ice storms are usually considered acts of God, but fires are not so considered unless they are caused by lightning"

Acts by governments cannot be regarded as Force Majeure; unless the Purchase Agreements include other extraordinary circumstances, beyond the Builder's control.

From Danaef's post it would appear that we pay them the full amount, prior to getting the keys to the apt and the compensation comes later. Not fair, but I guess that's how it is.

As for the 0.5% per month on MD3, I believe on the subsequent MD's this has been raised to 1.5%, i.e. three times as much. Again, tough luck I guess.

James, I think few people may be willing to join in a class action due to the fact that in most cases the intial investments more than doubled, by way of capital appreciation; which is quite phenominal. That's just my opinion.


Sal

Thanks for the feedback.

I called DI today and they told me that they will pay compensations after the delivery and full payments. They said that they will not subtract that from the last payment.

They would not confirm how much, although the figure is very straight forward to compute from the contract- I think they have a couple of tricks up their sleeve- maybe another phantom Force Majeure.

I do appreciate the increase in the property value- which has nothing to do with DI- this was a risk we took and it paid of.

All it will take is few owners to appoint a lawyer, who is paid on performance- no win no fee. The fee will be a fraction of the money recovered. This will be after the payments and delivery is finalized and after they pay "some" compensation which is likely to be less that our entitlements. I honestly can’t see DI appearing in court and blaming the delay on Force Majeure or the Government.

From Danaef's post it would appear that we pay them the full amount, prior to getting the keys to the apt and the compensation comes later. Not fair, but I guess that's how it is.

As for the 0.5% per month on MD3, I believe on the subsequent MD's this has been raised to 1.5%, i.e. three times as much. Again, tough luck I guess.

James, I think few people may be willing to join in a class action due to the fact that in most cases the intial investments more than doubled, by way of capital appreciation; which is quite phenominal. That's just my opinion.


Sal

I don,t know about MD 4 & 5, but my contract for MD6 puts the compenstion at 0.5% per month too.

I would join a class action as it looks like MD6 will be very very late (I'm guessing 6 months +) being the last job (excluding MD7).

So the sum is around 400 GBP per month and I for one am not passing that up, especially as missed rental revenue is around 1000 GBP per month.

^^ ^^

We have 1% in our contract for MD4. That is worth £1000 a month. They are still claiming that new working hours law has slowed things down. MD4 was not even started when law changed. So this cannot be argued. What exactly is there threat? We won't let you unless you pay. Surely agreement to offset against final payment is the easiest option. Could always deduct from next years maintenance bill. Remember they add this years to final settlement figure.

To get results, you have to form a group and get a meeting arranged, soon with developers.

Otherwise! you are getting zilch.
Once monies are paid, construction comes to an end.
Email and phone as much as you want. You will get nowhere.

That’s my opinion.

Jeetha!

You are so right in this. Except that I found out it makes no sense to threaten the developer as a group. The fact is that we are foreigners and as such will give you very little credit. Even as a group.

We own units in MD2, MD5 and MD6 and lost all hope for compensation after the MD2 handover.... Just that you know.... Don't spend too much time on it as it will become a frustration.

I think most MD owners will agree with me here.. :(

Jeetha!

You are so right in this. Except that I found out it makes no sense to threaten the developer as a group. The fact is that we are foreigners and as such will give you very little credit. Even as a group.

We own units in MD2, MD5 and MD6 and lost all hope for compensation after the MD2 handover.... Just that you know.... Don't spend too much time on it as it will become a frustration.

I think most MD owners will agree with me here.. :(

^^ Agree with that. We formed a group, fired off letters outlining our grievances and threatening legal action etc and it got us nowhere. DI stuck to their guns, claimed Force Majeure and in the end we all gave up because we wanted the keys to our apartments so we could get on with renting them.
Also, advice received from Dubai expats suggested we would get nowhere with legal action, as foreigners, against a 'local' company. It became more hassle than it was worth.

Minime - btw, I've rented mine out now at long last!!!

We were told prior to handover of MD3 that we would be getting 3 months at 0.5% of total price as compensation - At the handover we were then told that all the compensation would be paid out in August once the full handover process was complete. They stated they were only giving 3 months because part of it was not there fault - it had something to do with the government. They did not explain fully what but I will be prying it out of them come August! - Hope this helps a bit

^^ With my MD2 apartment, what little compensation I did get was deducted from my final payment. They originally sent a final demand excluding any compensation, and then sent an amended statement after I queried it.

Thanks Salmandar,

Don't hold your breath- DI they did not answer my question.
Perhabs they think we will forget about it and it will be swept under the carpet.
It is still a puzzle to me that nobody on this forum is giving us the benefit of their experience.

^^ Not really a puzzle. A very good reason might be that once you receive the keys to your apartment and everything is as good as it is going to be, you wont feel the urge to visit this thread so often. I was always on here whilst MD2 was being built and for a few months after handover but rarely visit anymore.

^^ You are so right.

^^ With my MD2 apartment, what little compensation I did get was deducted from my final payment. They originally sent a final demand excluding any compensation, and then sent an amended statement after I queried it.

I'm going to try the your my best friend approach with May, she says she would like a visit to the UK. Perhaps if she comes up with full compensation then a free stay would be fair.

To get results, you have to form a group and get a meeting arranged, soon with developers.

Otherwise! you are getting zilch.
Once monies are paid, construction comes to an end.
Email and phone as much as you want. You will get nowhere.

That’s my opinion.

Jeetha is absolutely right.

I lived in Dubai for 30 years before I moved back to the UK.
This business of Local Company vs. Expatriate bias is false-
I was involved in many cases where the local companies lost their case.
If the contract says you are entitled to 0.5% compensation per month, and DI blames the contractors, government, etc. for the delay; this is without a legal base. When DI signed this contract, they effectively gave you an insurance against these events and other such events. Only a Force Majeure is justified where there is a national emergency. This is not threatening or any such- simple pursuit of justice.

Of course, DI hopes that we give up without trying- which seems to work in most of the cases.

I can’t understand why MD2, MD1 and MD3 owners would accept this lying down. Once you have got the keys it would cost nothing to appoint a lawyer and go to court on; no win- no fees basis; the fees would be a fraction of the recoverable.

All the things which we had to getting snagging done on has been completed. The MD3 project Manager for DI came and met us along with the Belhasa Engineers and walked through our apartment. The DI guy could not have been any more helpful instructing the Belhasa Engineers to get the relatively minor issues sorted out (The major ones had already been sorted). One thing you may all want to know though is - the internet, TV & Telephone service to this building will not be completed until August at the earliest. That internet cafe at the mall will be frequented a lot!! Never mind, the bairn can watch her teletubbies DVD and I'll buy more mobile top up cards!! - It's all part of the fun of living in Dubai.

By the way the leather sofas in the foyer of the building are very smart and the security guards (Concierges) are striaght from "Police Academy" I'm half expecting to bump into inspector Lausard when I go into te building! - were going to MD3 tomorrow, i'll take some pictures and post them on the forum.

All the things which we had to getting snagging done on has been completed. The MD3 project Manager for DI came and met us along with the Belhasa Engineers and walked through our apartment. The DI guy could not have been any more helpful instructing the Belhasa Engineers to get the relatively minor issues sorted out (The major ones had already been sorted). One thing you may all want to know though is - the internet, TV & Telephone service to this building will not be completed until August at the earliest. That internet cafe at the mall will be frequented a lot!! Never mind, the bairn can watch her teletubbies DVD and I'll buy more mobile top up cards!! - It's all part of the fun of living in Dubai.

By the way the leather sofas in the foyer of the building are very smart and the security guards (Concierges) are striaght from "Police Academy" I'm half expecting to bump into inspector Lausard when I go into te building! - were going to MD3 tomorrow, i'll take some pictures and post them on the forum.

Thank you for the update. Would appreciate the photos. Is your apt. fully furnished? I believe DI had indicated that a TV would be included and all the kitchen appliances as well as utensils, etc. Is that the case?

Sal

06/July/2007

Marina Diamond 4

http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/9004/imresolt024wp4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/8719/imresolt025uj3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


Marina Diamond 6

http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/4255/imresolt026lg1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/1040/imresolt027fi0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


Marina Diamond 5

http://img463.imageshack.us/img463/2530/imresolt028se6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/8113/imresolt029pw4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

H Maltster
would you mind giving me an idea of what you are getting in rent or who your letting agent is. I have a 1bed in MD2 and reckon I am being ripped off by my letting agent as i get 65,000 AED. I am about to take possesion of a studio in same and a 1 bet in MD 4 when it is completed and want to find a good letting agent

thanks in advance for any info.

H Maltster
would you mind giving me an idea of what you are getting in rent or who your letting agent is. I have a 1bed in MD2 and reckon I am being ripped off by my letting agent as i get 65,000 AED. I am about to take possesion of a studio in same and a 1 bet in MD 4 when it is completed and want to find a good letting agent

thanks in advance for any info.

Letting agent is Better Homes. I used their branch located just behind the ski slope, Mall of Emirates. See pm for more detail.

For those thinking of selling. I was told 1,275,000 for a 2 bed marina view in MD4. " Not exactly flying of the shelf " was the phrase quoted about chances of selling. Luckily I'm not intending to sale as Dubai is where I want to be visiting for many years to come.

What happened to the promised photos of interior of MD3 ? Would love to see pics of some finished apartments on the forum. Lets show them at their best rather than with problems pre snagging etc. I would love to see some finished and properly furnished.

I just received this email from DI today and I will ask them about compensation.

" Dear Valued Customer,

Kindly be informed that according to the contractor’s feedback, the anticipated completion date of Marina Diamond 6 is end of December 2007.

We shall notify you once we receive the final confirmation.

We apologize for any inconvenience caused due to the delay.

Best regards,

Hand-over Department
Diamond Investments L.L.C. "

What is happening with MD3 handovers? Should they all be done by now? Has snagging been sorted?

Have been notified that MD4 ready end of August. How long before they ask us to make appointments. How does handover work exactly. i.e. What do we sign, do DI wait for money to arrive in their bank before giving keys, how long does all this take. Do we await confirmation that snagging is sorted and then send money and then visit Dubai. Sorry to ask so many questions. Could anyone write an idiots guide to handover.

Summer flight offers from the UK running out soon !!

What is happening with MD3 handovers? Should they all be done by now? Has snagging been sorted?

Have been notified that MD4 ready end of August. How long before they ask us to make appointments. How does handover work exactly. i.e. What do we sign, do DI wait for money to arrive in their bank before giving keys, how long does all this take. Do we await confirmation that snagging is sorted and then send money and then visit Dubai. Sorry to ask so many questions. Could anyone write an idiots guide to handover.

Summer flight offers from the UK running out soon !!

Just been handed our apartment in MD3. DI will not handover keys until they have received the money. Snagging was done pretty quick. Once DI have received the final payment they will complete handover straight away, so its probably better to send the money. With regards compensation they said they would pay this in August. But I think they trying to get out of paying a couple months as they are saying working hours have been reduced due to govt legisalation. Whether this is an acceptable excuse is debatable.

Just been handed our apartment in MD3. DI will not handover keys until they have received the money. Snagging was done pretty quick. Once DI have received the final payment they will complete handover straight away, so its probably better to send the money. With regards compensation they said they would pay this in August. But I think they trying to get out of paying a couple months as they are saying working hours have been reduced due to govt legisalation. Whether this is an acceptable excuse is debatable.


Someone by the name of Lisana in DI Finance had sent me an e-mail as an invoice; but the figure didn't seem right; so I asked her to give me the breakdown and she won't say a word, despite reminders. I wonder what their problem is? Does everyone have to come to Dubai, just to get them to reply?

Any suggestions, please?

^^ Staff in Dubai just hates replying to emails. Not everyone can see them in person. Either there’s a problem or they are biting time or under staff.

Just been handed our apartment in MD3. DI will not handover keys until they have received the money. Snagging was done pretty quick. Once DI have received the final payment they will complete handover straight away, so its probably better to send the money. With regards compensation they said they would pay this in August. But I think they trying to get out of paying a couple months as they are saying working hours have been reduced due to govt legisalation. Whether this is an acceptable excuse is debatable.

Athar

That is great news. DI can do things right then.

When was your first appointment and when did you get keys ( dates please ) Is the apartment now ready to use? Any photos that you could post.

Finally managed to get them to change the final instalment figure to what it should be. No compensation for the time being.

Wonder what the latest news is on the currency revaluation, cuz that's where the real gain will be for investors.

I just received this email from DI today and I will ask them about compensation.

" Dear Valued Customer,

Kindly be informed that according to the contractor’s feedback, the anticipated completion date of Marina Diamond 6 is end of December 2007.

We shall notify you once we receive the final confirmation.

We apologize for any inconvenience caused due to the delay.

Best regards,

Hand-over Department
Diamond Investments L.L.C. "

Reply from DI,

"Kindly note that compensation will be calculated, as per article 13 in your contract, and paid after completion."

In my case this equates to 0.5% per month.

Finally managed to get them to change the final instalment figure to what it should be. No compensation for the time being.

Wonder what the latest news is on the currency revaluation, cuz that's where the real gain will be for investors.

Details of charges for maintenance and air con would help plan for final settlement figure. Do they now charge 6mths or 1 year. How is electric & billing organised.

On currency they have already stated that they are keeping tie to the dollar.

Could still do with idiots guide to handover. i.e. If handovers for MD3 started early June, how many have now completed.

Details of charges for maintenance and air con would help plan for final settlement figure. Do they now charge 6mths or 1 year. How is electric & billing organised.

On currency they have already stated that they are keeping tie to the dollar.

Could still do with idiots guide to handover. i.e. If handovers for MD3 started early June, how many have now completed.

The service charges for MD3 are: AED 6 per sq ft + Gas AED 1 per sq ft + monthly chiller AED 350.

I spoke to someone today and was told that the snagging takes 2 to 3 days. So, I guess once you pay up, they hand over the keys. I'll know more next week.

I believe they are keeping the AED pegged to the greenback at the moment, but there is tremendous pressure to link it to a basket of currencies or revalue.

Athar

That is great news. DI can do things right then.

When was your first appointment and when did you get keys ( dates please ) Is the apartment now ready to use? Any photos that you could post.

Neil,

We got the keys last Saturaday. The snagging was done a week before by a friend. All the minor issues were sorted out within the week. I haven't seen the apt as my brother went over to Dubai for the handover and is staying in the apt. Sorry I don't have any photos yet.

I also have a 1 bed in MD4 and am going to Dubai on 20th August. Hopefully this should be ready by then.

Athar & Salmandar

Wanting to book family break for 24/10 in my MD4 apartment. What odds would you give on it being fully furnished and ready to use by then. DI have said due for completion end of Aug, could it be delayed any later now ?

congratulations athar,
when you get pics,send it over ...
dont forget the view! :)

Neil,

We got the keys last Saturaday. The snagging was done a week before by a friend. All the minor issues were sorted out within the week. I haven't seen the apt as my brother went over to Dubai for the handover and is staying in the apt. Sorry I don't have any photos yet.

I also have a 1 bed in MD4 and am going to Dubai on 20th August. Hopefully this should be ready by then.

Athar & Salmandar

Wanting to book family break for 24/10 in my MD4 apartment. What odds would you give on it being fully furnished and ready to use by then. DI have said due for completion end of Aug, could it be delayed any later now ?

I'd say a month from the time you get a letter saying they are starting the handing-over; which is a whole lot different to a "due for completion" date. If you get that letter in Aug, then 24/10 sounds like a fair margin.

That's just my opinion.

^^ ^^

If ours is not ready would like to stay in a nice MD3 or MD1 two or three bed apartment for a week. Anybody holiday letting? or anybody trusting enough to let another owner stay in their apartment ( paying of course ). Private message would seem the way to notify me.

Thanks

After you get the keys, expect another 6 months of 'fixing' and 'finishing' the building.... I was in MD2 6 months after I got the keys and noticed a lot of communal areas where not ready yet. Even though MD announced 8 months earlier that the project ws completed...

Better to book a hotel for now.

There seem to be conflicting reports. Danaef in Post 649 praises the Foyer and sounds happy with the quick snagging.
My experience of Canada is that takes just as long here to get things fixed after the handing-over; so I guess Dubai is no different to other cities around the world.

There seem to be conflicting reports. Danaef in Post 649 praises the Foyer and sounds happy with the quick snagging.
My experience of Canada is that takes just as long here to get things fixed after the handing-over; so I guess Dubai is no different to other cities around the world.

^^ Different people have different experiences. My snagging for MD2 was an absolute nightmare!! My snagging inspection was arranged for 2nd October but was unable to do it because the apartment was an absolute disgrace. I ended up going back to Dubai in February to kick some arses' because it still wasnt ready!! Finally in late March it was suitable for occupation.

On the other hand I know of some others who were very happy and had moved in by Nov/Dec. Also my apartment on the Palm was excellent; only a few minor snags and now it looks great. I know of others who are in despair over the problems they have encountered.

We have a 2 bed in MD5. Recieved an email saying 5 is ready end of September 2007.

However, we have been in Dubai for about 3 weeks taking handover of an apartment in JBR and let me just say I would be astounded if 4 or 5 are ready on time.

Looking at 4, outside and a quick look in I would honestly say that you are looking at September, and even then I bet my bottom dollar its going to be at least another 2 months getting it ready.

As for 5 (our block) absolutely no way in this world will it be ready in September (not unless they have Superman running the show). We estimate November again with a couple of months.

I think 4 or 5 owners really need to look at the very end of the year, beginning of next year to live comfortably there.

I wish I could say there timescales are right, but honestly, unless they hand the things over half built they will not be ready on time (only an opinion of course)

oh...and as for 6 (maybe another year, or perhaps a little less)

oh...and as for 6 (maybe another year, or perhaps a little less)

Have been watching this forum for many months, great information coming from this, well done, felt it was time to contribute. We are one of the many waiting an ever increasing time for MD6, we have had the first DI letter stating end Oct07 for completion, now end Dec07; I agree that this still looks optimistic, I think handover in Jan08 looks more likely. It looks like getting compensation for delay is going to be interesting

Still no interior photos of the finished MD3. What happened to the promises ?
Balcony views and the pool would be great also.

On a more specific note. Handover team advise not to book flights for MD4 handovers yet, even though they think beginning of September.

Is there anybody there ? Not many postings on forum lately. Has interest declined to all time low or may be as people get apartments they stop using forum like Maltster said.

^^ It has been very quiet here lately
Come-on, skyscrapers. (POST)
(PICTURES) (NEWS) (ANYTHING):lol:

These photos were taken yesterday!
http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/8623/image089sy8.th.jpg (http://img72.imageshack.us/my.php?image=image089sy8.jpg)
http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/1962/image090kp0.th.jpg (http://img514.imageshack.us/my.php?image=image090kp0.jpg)
http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/7007/image091fz6.th.jpg (http://img72.imageshack.us/my.php?image=image091fz6.jpg)
http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/6615/image092jh1.th.jpg (http://img514.imageshack.us/my.php?image=image092jh1.jpg)
http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/1293/image093dh9.th.jpg (http://img341.imageshack.us/my.php?image=image093dh9.jpg)

20/July/2007

Marina Diamond 6

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/3122/imresolt067tp2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Marina Diamond 4

http://img510.imageshack.us/img510/7726/imresolt068dk7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Marina Diamond 5

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/2600/imresolt069cf4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Marina Diamond 8 is coming soon , I think next to Park Island :)
and after coming Marina Diamond 9 and 10 because they have 2 more plots at Dubai Marina.

Re snagging. I have read on this forum people complaining about snagging and how long it's taken for them to fix things. In my apt. there wasn't anything wrong, except maybe a little touch-up on the paint, which will be taken care of soon; so, I wonder what all the hullabaloo is all about.

The inspection, payment of final dues, and handing-over of keys all took a day.

No bad, I'd say.


P.S. they've even provided linen.

Thanks Salmander! Maybe they have cleaned up their act... If you pm me I can send you the pictures of my MD2 snagging and it will show you that the hullaboo is all about....

I think they are gradually learning... They will get it right with MD7 is my bet since it is the hotel tower they will be operating themselves. :)

Thinking of letting with mydubaistay.com. Their service seems pretty good, according to reviews, although at 25% of income it should be. One problem is that nearly all their advertised MD apartments use the same photos. Anybody using anywhere else for holiday letting. For the number of apartments in the Marina it does seem that holiday letting is not that huge at the moment.

Thanks for photos of MD3 apartment. There must be more photos out there of finished apartments.

29/July/2007

roadworks front of the Marina Diamond 2

http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/9476/imresolt08qf8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/834/imresolt09nf5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/1589/imresolt10dv9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/6430/imresolt11hj5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/6343/imresolt12ni8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

03/Aug/2007

Marina Diamond 6


http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/962/imresolt047oi0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


Marina Diamond 4

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/6383/imresolt048dk4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Marina Diamond 5

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/3938/imresolt049mt5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Waiting for my e-mail advising of handover dates for MD4, must be soon. Can't wait to get out there.

Read article about proposals for Marvel Comics theme park which I have not seen on forum yet.

Bit crumpled but you get the idea...

http://i9.tinypic.com/4r0b4vb.jpg

Thinking of letting with mydubaistay.com. Their service seems pretty good, according to reviews, although at 25% of income it should be. One problem is that nearly all their advertised MD apartments use the same photos. Anybody using anywhere else for holiday letting. For the number of apartments in the Marina it does seem that holiday letting is not that huge at the moment.

Thanks for photos of MD3 apartment. There must be more photos out there of finished apartments.

Why not market the apartment yourself and let them handle the changeover, cleaning, key holding etc.
You could let them market it aswell. I assume you would pay lower fees on bookings that you confirm yourself.

Nothing on thread for a week. I assume all interested parties have now left the forum. Must be loads of contented owners out there somewhere.

Just lost my first let.. Busy getting things sorted for my MD5 apt. I think most Marina Diamond owners will be happy yes. :)

On the subject of maintenance fees for MD2. I expected an invoice for the second half year of charges but have not gotten any. Did you guys get your invoice for the service charges for the 2nd half of 2007?

Just lost my first let.. Busy getting things sorted for my MD5 apt. I think most Marina Diamond owners will be happy yes. :)

On the subject of maintenance fees for MD2. I expected an invoice for the second half year of charges but have not gotten any. Did you guys get your invoice for the service charges for the 2nd half of 2007?


Does anyone know of a good agent? I have an agent whose failed to rent out my fully-furnished apt in MD3 for two weeks now.
I was looking for an established high-profile agency, not one of the freelancers.

Also any info on what one can expect for a one-bed and the current rental market in the Marina, cause I'm told the Marina apts are now facing competition from the JBR apts. which are more upscale.

Any MD4 owners had their handover information yet?? Be interested to see whether the "end of september" really comes true.

I would guess it might, but still be unlivable.

In fact, a question for any 1, 2 or 3 owners that are still around. When they tell you of handover how long do you have to get over there and make the final payment. For example, what if you cannot get over for a month or two, do they wait for you, or do you have to do it the week they give you?

Spoken to Diamond today. They are planning to advise handover dates for early September by the end of this week by e-mail. They are awaiting Constructor's confirmation.

Any MD4 owners had their handover information yet?? Be interested to see whether the "end of september" really comes true.

I would guess it might, but still be unlivable.

In fact, a question for any 1, 2 or 3 owners that are still around. When they tell you of handover how long do you have to get over there and make the final payment. For example, what if you cannot get over for a month or two, do they wait for you, or do you have to do it the week they give you?

No, you don't have to get there right away. There's always lots of work on the final touches to the Building and the apartments require snagging. A month should be okay.

e-mail yesterday saying that MD4 due for completion 15-30 Sep. Looks like Oct 1st - 15th for handovers.

17/Aug/2007

Marina Diamond 4-5-6

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/4063/imresolt050dp6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/6285/imresolt051go2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/8475/imresolt052rs2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/9471/imresolt053zg1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Is there a website address for Diamond? Thanks in advance

Is there a website address for Diamond? Thanks in advance

Yes - Its:

http://www.diamond-investments.ae/

Thanks Corby

My agent is in better homes and it has been over one month and they have not been able to rent my one bedroom. Could it be because work has not completly been finished in the area or even in the building. Does anyone have similar problem. Can anyone tell me if construction has completly finished in building or maybe building is having problems which is delaying people from wanting to rent in building. Many thanks for replies.

My agent is in better homes and it has been over one month and they have not been able to rent my one bedroom. Could it be because work has not completly been finished in the area or even in the building. Does anyone have similar problem. Can anyone tell me if construction has completly finished in building or maybe building is having problems which is delaying people from wanting to rent in building. Many thanks for replies.

Too many apartments for number of tourists wanting them I think. Current visitors like 5* hotels. Dubai really needs the theme parks etc to pull in families wanting self-catering hols.

Hi,

I am just new on this forum but watching it for month. I purchased a villa 5 bedrooms 4 to 5 years ago in dubai and purchase two months ago a flat in marina diamond 6 (2 bedrooms). For your info, i arrived in dubai in 1999 and i am french.
i visited last week the marina diamond 3 and was well surprised compare to what i can read on this forum.
The flats are quite nice and facilities also ok. Finishing was as per Dubai standart. In fact, the price we purchased is a crazy deal compare to the market.
For the rent, do not worry, it should go quickly.... but don't be too much demanding.
Last week, one of my friend did an offer to a tenant of a 1 bedroom flat in marina diamond 3 for 95000 dhs with one cheque and the guy refused.
The market price for diamond is 95000 dhs for 1 bedroom and between 125 to 130 for 2 bedrooms... do not expect much more, it is already huge.
For your last question, marina diamond is 99% ready.... and easily viable.
I should advise you to put your flat with many agencies, it will help you to rent it faster.
I discover with my friends LANDMARK properties, they are quite well known in dubai and have an office just near marina diamond 1. May be it could facilitate to rent your flat. I have one business card, the guy name is Eddy Digna and his mobile number is 00971504299872, is email is adel.d@landmark-dubai.com . When i will get my flat in january, i will go through him.
Again, the diamond are quite nice for the money we spend. I took long time to find where to purchase and found that marina diamond look like the actual most profitable project.

My agent is in better homes and it has been over one month and they have not been able to rent my one bedroom. Could it be because work has not completly been finished in the area or even in the building. Does anyone have similar problem. Can anyone tell me if construction has completly finished in building or maybe building is having problems which is delaying people from wanting to rent in building. Many thanks for replies.

^^ If you're trying to let long-term then I am very surprised and think it will be only a matter of time. If it's Better Homes Short Term Lettings then I'd be a little more concerned. I had a nightmare with them re my 2 bed in MD2. Took them ages to get my apartment into a rentable condition (snaggs, furnishings, DU/utilities etc) and then it sat there for 10 weeks without a sniff of a rent. This was after being told that they were achieving over 80% occupancy and expected at least 60% with mine. They then told me that this was because after April rents slow down during the summer until October. That really pissed me off because I had missed out on the 'busy' season whilst they were making a complete hash of getting my apartment ready.

Eventually I asked them to transfer it to their Long Terms department. Although I had signed up for a year, Short Terms agreed to release my apartment because it had been on their books for 7 months and they had not earned me a single dirham. Long Term Lets rented it out within 3 weeks.

24/Aug/2007

Marina Diamond 6,5,4

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/6985/imresolt073ca1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

^^ If you're trying to let long-term then I am very surprised and think it will be only a matter of time. If it's Better Homes Short Term Lettings then I'd be a little more concerned. I had a nightmare with them re my 2 bed in MD2. Took them ages to get my apartment into a rentable condition (snaggs, furnishings, DU/utilities etc) and then it sat there for 10 weeks without a sniff of a rent. This was after being told that they were achieving over 80% occupancy and expected at least 60% with mine. They then told me that this was because after April rents slow down during the summer until October. That really pissed me off because I had missed out on the 'busy' season whilst they were making a complete hash of getting my apartment ready.

Eventually I asked them to transfer it to their Long Terms department. Although I had signed up for a year, Short Terms agreed to release my apartment because it had been on their books for 7 months and they had not earned me a single dirham. Long Term Lets rented it out within 3 weeks.

Many thanks to all for reply and great info. Yes I am looking for long term lets. I think better homes has done a very bad job. I have emailed them and told them that I am very disappointed with them. I will give them another week. Since I am not in dubai and cant do anything about it. Will update everyone so that hopefully no one elese is put in my position.

No questions, No complaints, Nothing for a week !!

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/6985/imresolt073ca1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Or....boring towers left, right and centre.

I'm sorry but these are some mundane looking buildings. But hey guys, its not all bad, the SZR-facing residents will get excellent eye-witness close-ups of those huge pile-ups that take place every second Thursday of the month around 6pm.

No? Ok, well I tried.

I found the noise levels in the SZR facing apartments actually surprisinly quiet compared to the large road (not too) close by. Personally I think this is the best guarantee that your neigbours will not be at less than 100 meters away. They will never move SZR. Besides.... Is this not VERY close to the new Marina Sation Footbridge for the new light rail? If so, the MD properties will prove to be a good investment since properties close to public transport links are likely to fetch a better selling price.

Any news on construction status for MD4 . When do we expect completion of Diamond 4? I thought it should of been this month. Also for people living in Dubai how is construction process and pace during Ramadan? thanks in advance for replies.

Any news on construction status for MD4 . When do we expect completion of Diamond 4? I thought it should of been this month. Also for people living in Dubai how is construction process and pace during Ramadan? thanks in advance for replies.

e-mail yesterday stating that MD4 is finished. Handover dates to follow in a couple of days. What is the latest on compensation payments. MD3 compensation was promised to be paid in Aug. What happened ? Ours is 1% on MD4 for each month delay, 6 months = £6k. Not an amount to be ignored.

e-mail yesterday stating that MD4 is finished. Handover dates to follow in a couple of days. What is the latest on compensation payments. MD3 compensation was promised to be paid in Aug. What happened ? Ours is 1% on MD4 for each month delay, 6 months = £6k. Not an amount to be ignored.

The compensation for MD3 was 0.5%. I have been offered about £1500 compared to the actual £3500 which is due. Obviously I have turned it down.

It seems preposterous that they would agree to such a high compensation amount. Does Diamond even own a calculator?

Not in a rush to complete on apartment, so have advised Diamond that not paying until compensation is offset from final amount. Lets wait and see what they do next.

It seems preposterous that they would agree to such a high compensation amount. Does Diamond even own a calculator?

They have calculator, they just lost the user manual

Not in a rush to complete on apartment, so have advised Diamond that not paying until compensation is offset from final amount. Lets wait and see what they do next.

Sell your apartment on and refund your original purchase price!!

I heard from another Scotsman who bought in MD2 and deducted money from his final payment due to shoddy work. When they worked out that they were short paid they changed the locks in his apartment when he was out shopping for electrical goods. Had no choice but to back down.

The increase in value since buying has nothing to do with Diamond. It is their contract and they are late. I bet they have water tight compensation from the constructors. I hear apartments are not selling that well anyway.

Today's reply

Apologies for the delay in replying to you. Further to your enquiry below, kindly note the calculation for your compensation below:

Projected completion date as per contract: 31 March 2007
Date of Completion as per Completion Certificate: 13 September 2007
Force Majeure: 2 months deductable due to the "Summer Working Restrictions" (as per Article 16 of the Sales Contract)
Total months of compensation to be paid: 3.5 months
Rate of compensation: 0.5% of total paid at projected time of completion (as per Article 13 in the Sales Contract)


Kindly note that this amount is not deductable from your final payments as all payments must be made in full together with the maintenance fee in order for the compensation to be paid (also refer to Article 16.2 and Article 9 of the Sales Contract). Note that the "sumer working restrictions" is still valid as the law came into effect only after the construction started in 2005. 1 Month has been calculated per year for the these restrictions.

I trust that you will find the above in order. You will be contacted shortly for the orientation of your apartment.

Thank you and Best regards,

Anel-Carline
Customer Relationship Manager


That tells me then !!! Nice to know that was it finished on 13/9 even though unable to get in or use.

Force majeure only covers abnormal or unexpected situations that can not be overcome. What is unexpected or abnormal about summer conditions in Dubai?

The law came into effect to protect workers from their employers disregard for their welfare and to force them to observe a duty of care for basic health and safety. I can't see any court in any land accepting that defence.

Nice to read on Gowealthy.com that Diamond investments have now handed over MDIV. They haven't even started.

Also, latest on our compensation is that they can not pay what we are asking for because the contract contains a typing error. Cannot believe that on a signed contract they can appologise for a typing error. What sort of organisation fails to meet the terms of it's own contract. Does Dubai have any laws that can be enforced. May be a silly error but surely it should be at their expense. Our contract states that they will pay from 1st Jan 2007 not 31st Mar as per completion date. Anyone else notice the same mistake ?

I ve just come across this website and thought id write a few lines.

I bought a two bed apartment in md2, flew over after the date i was advised the property was ready and found a building site, the property was by no means ready for occupation.

I eventually got the keys after arguments about the final payments for the maintenance, and compensation. This compensation was not for the apartment being late, this was for the inconvenience of flying over and paying for hotel when clearly not ready. I was refunded 400 quid, this was the average flight costs. I deducted this from the final payment which was for maintenance for the year and my agent was able to pick up the keys.

I did receive compensation for the property being late but not a lot, reading the actual contract and what was offered made no sense. I was offered my percentage of compensation not as the contract put it ' compensation for loss of rental'. I thought yes decent amoung coming here, but no the compensation was actually 1% of the amount i had already paid. Seeing as this was part way through the payment installments it wasnt a lot. They advised us early that the delay would be around about 5 months and awarded the compensation that way.

I have since had a letter from my agent telling me he is cutting all ties with the diamond buildings due to the problems the guests have encountered, this is causing problems for them . However they have been fantastic and i have had a few guests this year staying for more than 4 weeks at a time. The lastest guest will stay for 8 weeks then ill have to find another agent.

Some of the staff at diamond developments are fantastic, especially may she has been so helpful.

^^ If you're trying to let long-term then I am very surprised and think it will be only a matter of time. If it's Better Homes Short Term Lettings then I'd be a little more concerned. I had a nightmare with them re my 2 bed in MD2. Took them ages to get my apartment into a rentable condition (snaggs, furnishings, DU/utilities etc) and then it sat there for 10 weeks without a sniff of a rent. This was after being told that they were achieving over 80% occupancy and expected at least 60% with mine. They then told me that this was because after April rents slow down during the summer until October. That really pissed me off because I had missed out on the 'busy' season whilst they were making a complete hash of getting my apartment ready.

Eventually I asked them to transfer it to their Long Terms department. Although I had signed up for a year, Short Terms agreed to release my apartment because it had been on their books for 7 months and they had not earned me a single dirham. Long Term Lets rented it out within 3 weeks.

If you dont mind me being nosy whats the rent better homes can get for you, ive been made an offer by my agent to transfer from short term to long term what should i be looking for. thanks

Diamond have changed rules again. Will not allow snagging to be done by third party unless Power of Attorney has been granted them by the purchaser. Anybody got experience of this process and the cost.

I have done the Power of Attoney by the Dubai Court for a charge
160 Dhs only,thats no problem and than is it allowed to use a company
who do the snagging list for you.

I use a company who make the snagging list,turnkey,and DEWA
for a charge of 2500.- Dhs

I have done the Power of Attoney by the Dubai Court for a charge
160 Dhs only,thats no problem and than is it allowed to use a company
who do the snagging list for you.

I use a company who make the snagging list,turnkey,and DEWA
for a charge of 2500.- Dhs

Who did you use ?

Who did you use ?

The company is called: Kleindienst & Partner Dubai

Mrs.Tanja Kersten

Kleindienst.ae is a real estate company !

If you dont mind me being nosy whats the rent better homes can get for you, ive been made an offer by my agent to transfer from short term to long term what should i be looking for. thanks

^^ AED 125K. Seemed good considering it is quite small when compared to other 2 bed apts in the Marina.

Diamond have changed rules again. Will not allow snagging to be done by third party unless Power of Attorney has been granted them by the purchaser. Anybody got experience of this process and the cost.

Dont fret over this, when i came over to dubai to check out my apartment as per the completion date, the apartment was by no means ready. I did a list and got the main guy builder guy in (he usually uses one of the apartments in the block as his office). I gave him a list and showed him around and he wrote down all the little bits i could see that needed sorting. Of course i had to leave dubai and come home so alls i did was find my agent whilst i was there.

I had to fax over the agents pasport and pasport number with my signature of authorisation in order to get the keys released to him, he picked up the keys once all the monies had been transferred ie maintenance etc. He picked up on the snaggging i had informed him about and found a few other bits that needed sorting and got it done. When i was in marina diamond office obviously fuming that i had arrived and couldnt snag an apartment that wasnt finished i wanted the quicketst way of sorting this out as i couldnt pick up the keys could i. They showed me another poa someone else had faxed over and i just copied. Really basic nothing done by a solicitor, its just as i described above. Dont think they are really bothered who picks up the keys once you have paid as long as there is authorisation.

^^ AED 125K. Seemed good considering it is quite small when compared to other 2 bed apts in the Marina.

Thanks a lot, i got a basic idea off them of 110 to 130 so sounds about right, what floor you on?

Diamond have changed rules again. Will not allow snagging to be done by third party unless Power of Attorney has been granted them by the purchaser. Anybody got experience of this process and the cost.

Adding on to my reply earlier, i have just dug out my power of attorney letter which i copied from one diamond developments gave me. It is worded like this

17th october 2006

Power of attorney

This power of attorney is granted on the 17th day of October 2006. We the undersigned Mrs judie blogg-jones a british national holding passport number 1111111111111 hereby authorise Mr michael longworthy-jones a belguim national holding passport number rd222222222222 to collect the key and do the snagging of apartment 122456 at marina diamond 2 on behalf of myself


signed Mrs judie blogg-jones.


that is it nothing fancy, that needs faxing over alongside your agent/snaggers passport and should do the job, thats all i did, good luck

Now advised by Diamond that only acceptable form of Power of Attorney is one notarised by the Dubai Law Court. Can I just walk in and get documents signed or is an appointment necessary. Visiting Dubai on 10th & 11th & 12th Oct, could I get it done during that time. If I can, does anyone know how ?

When you go to Dubai on 10th October,you have to go to Dubai Court
Sheikh Zayed Road nearby Mall of the Emirates,you need your passport
the orignal Contract and 160 Dhs,and a person who lives
in Dubai to give the Power of Attorney.
You dont need a appointment there :) its so easy :cheers:

sorry for my bad english :nuts:

Carpetking

Now advised by Diamond that only acceptable form of Power of Attorney is one notarised by the Dubai Law Court. Can I just walk in and get documents signed or is an appointment necessary. Visiting Dubai on 10th & 11th & 12th Oct, could I get it done during that time. If I can, does anyone know how ?

^^ Sounds stupid to me The whole point of you getting a Power of Attorney is so you don't have to visit Dubai but if you have to visit it to get your Power of Attorney just sounds a little Mad.

Maybe they had an issue at some of their other towers hence tightended the rules.

does anyone on this forum know when MD5 and MD6 are supposed to be complete? I read in the news that their other project (Diamond Views) in Jumeirah :puke: Village has started construction.

Any info is welcome!

does anyone on this forum know when MD5 and MD6 are supposed to be complete? I read in the news that their other project (Diamond Views) in Jumeirah :puke: Village has started construction.

Any info is welcome!

MD6 is supposed to be end Dec07, but the way the earlier builds have gone this looks optimistic. Would expect the team at DI are trying desperately to further stretch the definition of ‘force majeure’ for compensation payments.

Now advised by Diamond that only acceptable form of Power of Attorney is one notarised by the Dubai Law Court. Can I just walk in and get documents signed or is an appointment necessary. Visiting Dubai on 10th & 11th & 12th Oct, could I get it done during that time. If I can, does anyone know how ?

Hi Neil,

You are in Dubai today.....Lucky You!!!

Share your experiences with us when you can!!!

Hope and pray you were able to manage the POA , etc!!

VK

Not many photos recently from Imre, any chance of some updates? Has MD4 completed handover? Very quiet on this thread.

Did snagging on MD4 apartment on the 10th. Went really well. Snagging was just what it should be, a list a small jobs to tidy things up. MD4 interior is great improvement on MD 1 & 2. Corridors a bit wider and finished in nice light colours. Gym was nice and big overlooking pool, sauna and steam room seemed spacious. Pool area nicely landscaped with lawn,shrubs,flowers and palms.

All round a very pleasant apartment. Diamond have improved their act. Photos don't really do the place justice as there was a sandstorm which rather ruined the views. Will try to post some tonight if I can remember how to.

Hi Neil,

You are in Dubai today.....Lucky You!!!

Share your experiences with us when you can!!!

Hope and pray you were able to manage the POA , etc!!

VK

You have to pay 160 Dhs to Dubai Court only also you need a copy
of sales agreement,copy of passport thats all :)