In the rapidly expanding residential real estate market, many buyers face an unexpected shock upon receiving their housing units: the actual space is much smaller than what was marketed. This phenomenon, known as the \u00abspatial gap,\u00bb is not just a mistake in estimation; it is the result of marketing practices that exploit the absence of standard standardization in calculating spaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The root of the problem: between marketing and the instrument<\/strong> Evading occupancy permits<\/strong> The real cost per square meter<\/strong> International comparison: the need for strict standards<\/strong> Opportunity for transparent developers<\/strong> Summary<\/strong> Reading time: <\/span> 2<\/span> Minutes<\/span><\/span>In the fast-paced residential real estate market, many buyers face an unexpected shock when they take possession of their units: the actual square footage is much smaller than what was advertised. This phenomenon, known as the \u00absize gap,\u00bb is not merely a miscalculation, but rather the result of marketing practices that exploit the lack of standardization in calculating square footage. The Roots of the Problem: Between Marketing and Reality\u2026 Read 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The fundamental problem lies in the deliberate confusion between \u00abtotal space\u00bb (which includes Common parts<\/a><\/strong>The discrepancies, the unregistered surfaces (including the \u00abnet area\u00bb (actually recorded in the real estate document)). In many cases, an apartment is marketed as having an area of 200 square meters, while the area recorded in the document does not exceed 140 square meters. This difference, which can reach 30%, means that the buyer pays exorbitant amounts for meters that he does not legally own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The problem is exacerbated by some developers resorting to irregular practices, such as closing off side slopes or adding attachments to the facades after the occupancy permit (the certificate of completion of construction) has been issued. These modifications, although they increase the usable space ostensibly, are not registered in the document, exposing the owner to significant legal and financial risks, including municipal fines and the mandatory removal of the violations at his own expense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When calculating the actual cost based solely on the area recorded in the deed, the buyer discovers that the price per square meter is much higher than they had thought. If an apartment is sold for 1.2 million riyals with an advertised area of 160 square meters, the advertised price per square meter is 7,500 riyals. However, if the area in the deed is only 120 square meters, the actual price jumps to 10,000 riyals per square meter. And, taking into account removal risks and fines, the actual cost may exceed 11,500 riyals per square meter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When comparing the local market to global markets such as Dubai, the United Kingdom, and Australia, we find that these countries apply strict standards that require developers to disclose the net area separately from common areas or balconies. In Dubai, for example, net area is strictly defined and strict penalties are imposed for any misrepresentation in real estate marketing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite these challenges, there is a golden opportunity for real estate developers who embrace transparency as a core value. A developer that clearly discloses net space and additional areas builds sustainable trust with its clients, reduces legal disputes, and enhances its reputation in the market. Transparency is not just a legal obligation; it is a competitive advantage that ensures business sustainability in a market that is becoming increasingly conscious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The treatment of \u00abThe trick of spaces<\/a><\/strong>\u00bbIt requires a concerted effort between regulatory authorities to unify measurement standards, developers to adopt transparency, and buyers to increase their awareness of their rights. Only through complete clarity can we build a healthy and sustainable real estate market that protects individuals\u2019 investments and enhances confidence in the sector.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"