The election campaign for the DHA Estate Agents Association Lahore offers the real estate community an important opportunity to define its priorities. At the heart of the contest lies a key question: how effectively will the next leadership address dealers’ business concerns, uphold professional standards and protect their collective interests?A recent meeting of the Awami Business Group offered a glimpse of the emerging electoral activity. Around 50 registered dealers joined the group at the gathering in DHA Phase I. The group’s leadership invited other groups to cooperate and indicated that future decisions would be guided by consultation and majority opinion. Such developments highlight the importance of outreach in the election campaign.The substance of any campaign, however, lies in its manifesto. Dealers have a right to know how candidates intend to improve the business environment, address administrative hurdles, provide professional training and support members’ welfare. Each pledge should come with a practical implementation plan, a timeframe and a clear mechanism for accountability.For serving and former office-bearers, their record can form a central electoral argument, but it should be assessed against verifiable results. How many complaints were resolved? What services became available to members? What tangible benefits emerged from institutional engagement? These questions can bring substance to the electoral debate. Those seeking to lead should likewise be expected to present a viable alternative programme.Effective engagement with the DHA administration should remain a prominent priority for the association. Presenting members’ concerns systematically, keeping them informed of progress and maintaining dialogue on shared issues can make representation meaningful. Leadership access delivers value when ordinary members can see and experience its benefits.A transparent dispute resolution mechanism should also be an important part of election manifestos. Timely hearings, impartiality and clearly defined procedures can strengthen confidence when disagreements arise between dealers and clients. Efforts to secure reconciliation should also respect the parties’ legal rights and their freedom to approach the appropriate forums.The participation of younger dealers and those running smaller businesses deserves attention as well. Training sessions, digital marketing guidance, awareness of document verification and mentoring by experienced professionals could provide valuable support. Electoral outreach should extend across the membership rather than remain confined to a handful of prominent offices.Language and conduct during the campaign will also test the quality of leadership. Criticism on social media should focus on performance, manifestos and decisions. Personal attacks and unsubstantiated allegations can damage business relationships. Candidates should remember that they will continue working within the same community once the contest is over.Ultimately, voters will determine the association’s direction. Alongside personal relationships, they should weigh integrity, accessibility, competence and performance. Informed voting and a respectful campaign can help bring forward leadership capable of translating members’ trust into consistent, practical service.

Lahore | Riaz Hussain ReNews Pakistan Unity Heights, a 15-storey residential apartment project near DHA Phases VI and VII on Bedian Road, held its grand launch ceremony, drawing a large gathering of property dealers, investors and other real estate professionals. Attendees included former Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Abdul Basit; former DHA Estate Agents Association Lahore chairman Dr Khalid Mahmood Chaudhry; Friends Business Group Patron-in-Chief Rana Iftikhar Ahmed, President Nasir Siddiqui and Secretary Khurram Chaudhry; and prominent real estate businessmen Arshad Najmi, Shahid Yaqoob, Sheikh Javed Iqbal, Hafiz Nauman bin Zia, Murtaza Ramay and Ahsan Ali. Speakers said the project occupied a prime location and would help meet demand for quality housing in the area. They described Malik Shahid Iqbal, CEO of Unity Developers and owner of the project, as a committed and accomplished builder, congratulating him on the development and wishing him success. Speaking exclusively to ReNews Pakistan, Iqbal said the project addressed a local need and had attracted a strong response from both investors and end users. “The project has 15 floors and 321 units, with apartment sizes starting at 390 square feet and penthouses extending to around 4,000 square feet,” he said. Iqbal added that the development could accommodate offices as well as residences, with amenities including grocery, pharmacy and laundry facilities. He said basement construction had been completed and work was expected to rise above ground level within the next few days. “Our delivery timeline is three years, but, God willing, we will hand over the project well ahead of schedule,” he said. Asked about payment options, Iqbal said the project offered a three-year payment plan with easy instalments. Discussing the project’s professional team, he identified Turk Pak as the consultant and ABS as the designer, adding that experienced professionals had also been engaged for other services. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of shields to dealers and investors in recognition of their performance, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony.

Lahore | Riaz Hussain ReNews PakistanPunjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan received a proposed Punjab Real Estate Regulatory Authority bill during a visit to the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) yesterday, assuring the business community of his full cooperation in pursuing the proposed legislation.The speaker met LCCI President Ali Hassam Asghar and other newly elected office-bearers and members. Shah Behram, an LCCI associate-class member and prominent real estate developer, presented the proposed bill through the chamber’s platform.Speaking on the occasion, Asghar urged the speaker to support legislation that would benefit the real estate sector.“The Lahore Chamber and the Punjab Assembly enjoy an exemplary partnership. This bill would benefit the business community and contribute to improvements across the province,” he said.In an exclusive interview with ReNews following the meeting, Behram said presenting the proposed bill marked the beginning of efforts to fulfil commitments he had made to the real estate community during his election campaign.“During the election campaign, I promised our community that we would take positive steps for its benefit. By presenting this bill to the Punjab Assembly speaker today, we have begun delivering on those promises,” he said.Behram expressed confidence that the proposed legislation would secure approval and be implemented.“This is a dream, and, God willing, we hope to see it realised in the coming days,” he added.Responding to a question from ReNews, Behram said the proposed legislation would provide protection to realtors and cover builders, developers and tenants.“It will give our sector a new identity,” he said.The speaker assured participants of his full cooperation on the proposed Real Estate Regulatory Authority bill. He also welcomed other proposals submitted by the chamber and pledged to convey them to the relevant institutions.Those attending the meeting included senior chamber members Amjad Ali Chaudhry, Khawaja Shahzeb Akram and Sohail Nisar, alongside executive committee members Sheikh Muhammad Ibrahim, Shah Behram, Mardan Ali Zaidi, Naila Nadeem, Shahzad Mahmood, Zulfiqar Ali Chaudhry, Tariq Mahmood, Muhammad Ijaz Ghori, Malik Zaman Naseeb, Muhammad Umair, Abdullah Chaudhry, Chaudhry Fargham, Adeel Babar Khan, Sahir Mushtaq, Ali Raza, Hameed Raza, Shahzad Ali Shah and others.

Lahore | Riaz Hussain ReNews PakistanFormer DHA Estate Agents Association Lahore president Talat Ahmad Mian has rejected the association’s annual audit report, citing what he described as multiple shortcomings.The association’s annual general meeting, which will be the last under the current administration, is scheduled for October 24. Copies of the agenda, including the annual audit report, have been sent to nearly all dealer members.In a joint statement with former director of finance Zahir Jan, Mian said the report showed a deficit of Rs 3.5 million but did not clearly explain when and where the association had spent the money.Zahir Jan said the audit report had not been approved by the association’s cabinet and lacked the auditor’s authentication date and page numbers. He questioned whether the document met the basic requirements of an audit report.He said every page should be attested and alleged that the balance sheet contained a clear discrepancy in the amounts reported. He also described the details of income and expenditure as ambiguous.Jan maintained that the report had not been properly prepared. He further argued that, had the elections been delayed for three years, the association would have become bankrupt.Both former officeholders reiterated their concerns over the reported Rs 3.5 million deficit, saying they could not determine when and where the amount had been spent.

Lahore : Riaz Hussain ReNews PakistanThe Awami Business Group, a prominent business group representing the real estate dealers' community in DHA Lahore, held its first formal meeting regarding the upcoming elections of the DHA Estate Agents Association. The gathering took place at a club in DHA Phase I, where nearly 50 registered real estate dealers announced their decision to join the group.Awami Business Group Chairman Shahan Sheikh, President Farooq Sheikh, General Secretary Asad Mirza, senior leader Aqeel Abbas Malik, Shoaib Khokhar and other prominent members welcomed the newly inducted dealers and presented them with floral garlands.Addressing the gathering, Chairman Shahan Sheikh invited other groups within the real estate community to join forces with the Awami Business Group ahead of the elections.He announced that the group's existing governing body would be dissolved following the Annual General Meeting (AGM), after which future decisions would be made through consultation and majority consensus.Sheikh said the group would formulate its election strategy collectively, including deciding whether to support another group in the upcoming elections or contest independently with full preparations.Speaking on the occasion, General Secretary Asad Mirza declared, "The party has just begun, and we will continue to deliver surprises every week."He described the Awami Business Group as an ideology-driven organisation committed to the welfare, prosperity and collective interests of the real estate community.Mirza maintained that traditional electoral considerations, including personal friendships, family affiliations, community loyalties and financial influence, would not determine the outcome of the upcoming elections."This time, neither traditional practices nor friendships, community affiliations or money will influence the elections," he said.Welcoming the newly inducted realtors, Mirza expressed confidence that the group's growing strength and expanding support would play a significant role in the forthcoming electoral contest.Senior leader Aqeel Abbas Malik said nearly 50 registered voters had formally joined the Awami Business Group during the meeting, describing the development as an encouraging sign of growing confidence in the organisation.He announced that the group would continue to make significant announcements on a weekly basis as election-related activities gained momentum."We have received the support of nearly 50 registered voters today, and, God willing, we will continue to deliver surprises every week," Malik said.The meeting concluded with a dinner hosted for participants and newly inducted members.Several attendees expressed confidence in the Awami Business Group's standing within the DHA real estate community, saying its reputation, organisational strength and growing support could enable it to play a decisive role in the upcoming DHA Estate Agents Association elections.Clarify the election meeting timelineReduce repeated election announcementsUse a more neutral election tone

Lahore | ReNews PakistanThe Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) has published lists identifying a total of 152 cancelled residential plots in Chahar Bagh I and Chahar Bagh Enclave, prompting buyers and investors to verify the current status of any plot directly with the authority before entering into a transaction.According to the published details, Chahar Bagh I accounts for 114 of the cancelled plots, comprising 10 marla and one kanal residential plots located in Blocks A, D, D-Extension and E.A further 38 cancelled plots have been listed in Chahar Bagh Enclave, including 3, 5, 7 and 10 marla plots situated in Blocks B, C and D.The publication of the lists is significant for Lahore’s property resale market because a cancelled plot carries a different legal status from a plot with unpaid instalments or other active allotment issues.Prospective buyers have been cautioned that a dealer advertisement, an old allotment letter or a previous payment receipt should not be treated as sufficient proof that an allotment remains active. RUDA’s latest official records are the primary source for confirming the current validity of a plot.The published cancellation lists do not specify the individual reason for cancellation of each plot and also do not state whether a cancelled plot may be restored after payment of outstanding dues or fulfilment of other requirements.Buyers and investors have therefore been advised not to assume that restoration is automatic or that a cancelled plot is permanently unavailable. Any restoration claim should be verified directly with RUDA before a resale transaction is completed or a market premium is calculated.The distinction is important for the property market because cancellation affects the underlying validity of an allotment, while market premium refers only to the amount paid above or below the original value of an active allotment in the resale market.

Pakistan’s real estate sector attracts billions of rupees in investment every year, but behind glossy advertisements, ambitious master plans and promises of high returns lies a persistent problem: property fraud and misleading marketing. For many buyers, particularly those investing their life savings, failure to verify a project before making a payment can turn the dream of owning property into a prolonged financial and legal struggle.One of the most common risks is the marketing of housing schemes or projects that have not obtained all necessary approvals from the relevant development authorities. Promotional campaigns may present projects as established residential communities even when their legal status, land ownership or development permissions remain incomplete. Buyers attracted by relatively low prices and instalment plans can therefore commit substantial amounts before discovering regulatory problems.Misleading advertising can take several forms. Developers and marketing companies may advertise facilities such as schools, hospitals, commercial centres, parks, wide roads, uninterrupted utilities and gated security that have yet to be developed. Computer-generated images and elaborate master plans can create an impression of a fully planned community, while the reality on the ground may be significantly different.Another major concern is the sale of files, booking forms or plot allocations without clearly explaining what the buyer actually owns. Consumers may assume they are purchasing a specific, legally identifiable plot when they are effectively buying a promise of future allotment. Problems can become more serious when the same property is sold to multiple buyers, ownership documents are manipulated or the developer does not possess sufficient land to fulfil commitments made to investors.Social media has added another dimension to the problem. Property advertisements can now reach thousands of potential buyers within hours. Influencers, property dealers and digital marketing campaigns may promote projects using claims of guaranteed returns, rapidly increasing prices or limited-time investment opportunities. Such tactics can pressure consumers into paying booking amounts without conducting adequate due diligence.The responsibility, however, does not rest with buyers alone. Development authorities and other regulators need effective mechanisms to identify unauthorised projects, prevent deceptive advertising and make approval information easily accessible to the public. Action taken after thousands of people have already invested may be too late to prevent substantial losses.Developers, estate agents and marketing companies should also be required to clearly disclose a project's approval status and distinguish between facilities that already exist and those that are merely proposed. Claims about expected returns, possession dates and future development should have a reasonable and verifiable basis.For buyers, verification remains the strongest first line of defence. Before paying a booking fee or signing an agreement, investors should confirm the project's approval status directly with the relevant authority, verify land ownership, examine contractual terms and retain records of payments and advertisements.Pakistan needs a real estate market where investment decisions are based on verified information rather than exaggerated promises. Greater transparency, stronger enforcement and informed buyers can help transform property investment from a speculative gamble into a safer and more credible transaction.

Karachi | ReNews PakistanThe Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) has rejected the government’s proposed smart lockdown and refused to implement the announced petrol relief package, saying that the government should provide relief from its own funds instead of placing the financial burden on dealers.PPDA representatives said they fear that payments may get delayed as previous commitments were not fulfilled, therefore dealers cannot provide petrol on credit under the government’s subsidy plan.Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, PPDA Chairman Malik Khuda Bakhsh, along with Vice Chairman Tariq Hassan, Anwar Kamal, Sindh President Ameer Khan and Karachi President Saeed Khan, said dealers cannot sell petrol at a reduced price of Rs100 under the announced relief package.He warned that if pressure was applied on dealers, petrol pumps could be closed. He said the government should arrange funds for the relief package itself instead of blocking the money of petroleum dealers.The association also rejected the proposed smart lockdown plan, saying dealers are concerned about financial losses and uncertainty regarding payment mechanisms.PPDA officials said they had not been taken into confidence before the announcement of the package and were not informed about how and when their payments would be returned.Vice Chairman Tariq Hassan said dealers had been trying to contact the government for the last three days but communication was not effective.The association said its 14,000 dealers across Pakistan would not sell petrol under the relief package from Wednesday night.Dealers suggested that allowing oil marketing companies to directly import petroleum products could help resolve the issue.

UAE | ReNews International Desk NewsPunjab Land Records Authority (PLRA) services have been made available through Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in the United Arab Emirates, enabling overseas Pakistanis to access official Punjab land records and obtain a Fard (Record of Rights) without travelling to Pakistan.The facility has been introduced in collaboration with the PLRA and is being facilitated through the Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai. The initiative is particularly significant for the large Pakistani community in the UAE, many of whom own agricultural, residential and other properties in Punjab.The services include access to Fard and recorded ownership information, along with related land-record facilitation. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to digitise Punjab’s land administration and provide easier access to government services for Pakistanis living abroad.A Fard is an extract from the official land-revenue record that contains information relating to a property or landholding. Depending on the record, it may include the recorded owner’s name, district, tehsil, mauza, khasra or other land identifiers and ownership share.The availability of the service in the UAE could make property verification more convenient for overseas Pakistanis who previously had to depend on relatives, property dealers, attorneys or other representatives in Pakistan, or travel personally to complete certain land-record requirements.The facility is expected to benefit both existing property owners and prospective buyers. Existing owners may obtain an updated Fard to confirm ownership details before selling property, settling inheritance matters, preparing a power of attorney or undertaking other transactions.For prospective buyers, independent access to official land records can provide an important due-diligence step before committing funds. However, a Fard alone does not establish that a property transaction is completely safe or legally clear.Overseas buyers are advised to separately verify the seller’s identity and authority, registry and sale-deed records, mutation history, possible litigation or encumbrances, and the property's status with the relevant development authority or housing society.For housing-society plots, buyers should additionally verify approval status, allotment and transfer records, outstanding payments, development charges, possession status and whether the specific property exists within approved project documentation.The service is currently accessible through Pakistan’s Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Consulate General in Dubai. Applicants have been advised to confirm the latest appointment procedure, documentation, applicable fees and service availability with the relevant mission or PLRA before visiting.The UAE-based facility represents a significant step toward improving overseas access to Pakistan’s property records and could help reduce information gaps and dependence on intermediaries in land related transactions.

Charsadda | ReNews PakistanThe Khyber Pakhtunkhwa authorities have intensified their crackdown against illegal and unauthorised housing schemes, with the Charsadda Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA) sealing 10 housing schemes, colonies, townships and plotting sites for allegedly operating without the legally required approvals.The latest enforcement action was carried out on Friday on the directives of Deputy Commissioner Fazal Rahim Marwat. Assistant Additional Commissioner Nida Shams, accompanied by officials of the TMA, inspected various housing projects and took action against schemes found to be lacking the required permissions and approvals.According to the latest newspaper report, authorities have also served notices on 32 housing schemes in the district over alleged deficiencies in their legal approvals. Officials are examining the status and documentation of these projects to determine whether they comply with applicable land-use, planning and development regulations.The action has raised concerns among developers, property dealers and investors because housing schemes operating without valid approvals can expose buyers to substantial financial and legal risks. Such projects may face restrictions on development, transfer of plots and provision of utilities, while purchasers can encounter difficulties in establishing ownership or completing property transactions.The Charsadda operation is part of a wider regulatory push in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to bring private housing development under stricter legal and planning controls. Provincial authorities have been increasingly focusing on housing societies that allegedly begin development or market plots without securing the mandatory No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and other permissions from relevant departments.The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Land Use and Building Control Authority (LUBCA) has previously directed housing-scheme developers to provide complete records concerning their projects. The authorities have particularly focused on determining whether schemes possess valid NOCs and whether their development activities conform to approved plans and land-use requirements.Officials have also warned that housing societies that fail to demonstrate their legal status may face enforcement action. The regulatory drive is aimed at preventing the development and marketing of unauthorised schemes and protecting citizens from investing in projects whose legal status remains uncertain.The issue is particularly important for KP's rapidly expanding urban areas, where demand for residential plots and housing has increased alongside population growth and urbanisation. Unregulated development can create problems not only for individual buyers but also for local governments because unauthorised schemes may develop without adequate arrangements for roads, drainage, sewerage, water supply, electricity, public spaces and other essential infrastructure.For property buyers, the latest crackdown highlights the importance of conducting proper due diligence before purchasing a plot in any private housing scheme. Buyers are advised to verify the project's NOC, approved layout plan, land ownership documents and development permissions from the relevant authorities rather than relying solely on advertisements, property dealers or assurances provided by developers.The enforcement action could also increase pressure on private developers across the province to regularise their projects and complete outstanding approval requirements. Housing societies that are unable to establish their legal status could face further inspections, sealing or other action under the applicable regulations.The latest figures from Charsadda — 10 schemes sealed and notices issued to 32 schemes — indicate that authorities are moving beyond warnings towards direct enforcement. If the ongoing verification process identifies further violations, the crackdown could expand to additional housing projects.

For several years, Dubai has remained a major destination for Pakistani investors seeking to invest in real estate abroad. Thousands of Pakistanis have invested in residential and commercial projects in Dubai, while many businesspeople have also regarded the emirate as a relatively secure destination for their business and financial assets. However, the ongoing conflict in the Gulf and growing geopolitical tensions appear to be changing this trend, with market sources indicating that some Pakistani investors are bringing funds held in Dubai back to Pakistan and redirecting them towards the local real estate market.According to recent reports, Pakistan has twice ranked as the second-largest foreign investor in Dubai’s property market. Pakistani investors have been attracted to Dubai by the rapid growth of its real estate sector, business-friendly environment, international outlook and diverse investment opportunities. However, the current regional crisis has altered investors’ perception of risk. Some market sources suggest that investors who previously moved funds to Dubai are now finding it more difficult to repatriate or reposition those investments, prompting them to explore alternative destinations.One significant impact of this shift is becoming visible in Pakistan’s domestic property market. Property prices have reportedly increased substantially in some areas of Karachi, particularly Defence. According to market sources, property prices in certain parts of Defence have risen by around 50 to 60 percent since the Gulf conflict began, while increases of 20 to 25 percent have been reported in other parts of Karachi. Property dealers say buying and selling activity has also increased as liquidity in the local market has improved.A sensitive aspect of the situation concerns claims regarding undeclared or illicit capital. Hasan Bakhshi, chairman of the All Pakistan Builders Association, has reportedly claimed that around $60 million in such funds is generated in Pakistan every month and was previously transferred to Dubai. According to him, this flow has now slowed or stopped. However, this figure is a market estimate and has not been independently verified; therefore, it should not be treated as an official government statistic.If the trend continues, it could have both positive and negative implications for Pakistan’s real estate sector. Additional capital could stimulate construction activity, property transactions and related industries. On the other hand, a sudden influx of funds could fuel artificial increases in property prices, making homes even less affordable for ordinary buyers.The key question is how Pakistan can channel any returning capital into productive investment. If such funds are brought into the formal economy through transparent, legal and documented channels and directed towards construction, affordable housing and new residential developments, they could provide a significant opportunity for the country’s economy and housing sector. Otherwise, if the money merely drives up the prices of existing plots and houses, homeownership could become even more difficult for the average Pakistani.The potential shift of investment from Dubai back to Pakistan, therefore, is not merely a change in the direction of property investment. It also represents an important policy test for Pakistan’s real estate sector: whether the country can convert returning capital into productive economic activity while ensuring greater transparency, affordability and sustainable growth.

The ongoing Gulf war and growing geopolitical tensions have affected not only the region’s politics and economy but also the investment preferences of Pakistani investors. For years, Dubai has been regarded as a safe and attractive property destination for Pakistani investors. However, the current situation is raising an important question: Is Pakistani capital now beginning to flow back from Dubai to Pakistan?According to media reports and property market sources, the flow of new capital from Pakistan into Dubai has slowed, while some investors who had previously invested in the UAE’s real estate sector are now considering bringing their funds back to Pakistan and reinvesting in the local market.The development is significant because Pakistani nationals have long been among the major foreign investors in Dubai’s property market. On several occasions, Pakistani investors have been ranked among the leading foreign buyers of real estate in Dubai, highlighting the scale of their involvement in the UAE’s property sector. Any shift in this investment pattern could therefore have implications for Pakistan’s real estate and construction industries.Chairman of the All Pakistan Builders Association Hassan Bakshi said that around $60 million in allegedly illegal or undeclared funds were generated in Pakistan every month and subsequently invested in Dubai. According to him, the ongoing conflict and uncertainty in the Gulf region have significantly disrupted this flow.Currency dealers, meanwhile, say some Pakistani investors are attempting to bring their liquid assets back from Dubai. An increase in remittances from the United Arab Emirates could partly reflect the repatriation of funds by Pakistanis reassessing their investments amid the prevailing geopolitical uncertainty. However, it would be premature to attribute the entire increase in remittances to the return of property investment.An interesting aspect of this shift is emerging in Pakistan’s domestic property market. Market sources say increased investment in key areas, particularly Defence in Lahore, has contributed to a significant rise in property prices. Hassan Bakshi claimed that property prices in Defence have increased by around 50 to 60 percent since the outbreak of the Gulf war.Karachi’s property market has also witnessed increased activity, according to property dealers. They report that property values in various parts of the city have risen by around 20 to 25 percent, while improved liquidity has contributed to greater buying and selling activity.However, it would be premature to describe these developments as a permanent shift in Pakistan’s property market. Investors’ decisions will continue to depend on several factors, including the duration of the conflict, confidence in Dubai’s property market, Pakistan’s economic conditions, exchange-rate stability and government policies.If geopolitical tensions in the Gulf persist, a portion of Pakistani capital could increasingly look for opportunities in the domestic real estate market instead of being invested abroad. Such a trend could place further pressure on property demand, prices and construction activity in major Pakistani cities.The Gulf crisis, therefore, may represent more than a geopolitical challenge for Pakistan. It could also trigger a significant change in the flow of investment capital. The key question is whether Pakistan’s property market is prepared to absorb any returning capital and channel it into productive, sustainable and long term real estate investment.

Dubai | ReNews International Desk NewsThe ongoing Gulf war has significantly altered investment patterns among Pakistani investors, with fresh capital outflows from Pakistan to Dubai reportedly slowing sharply while funds already invested in the emirate are increasingly being considered for repatriation and reinvestment in Pakistan’s property market.According to a media report, thousands of Pakistanis have invested hundreds of millions of dollars in Dubai, particularly in the real estate sector. Pakistan has on two occasions been identified as the second-largest foreign investor in Dubai’s property market, reflecting the scale of Pakistani participation in the emirate’s real estate sector.All Pakistan Builders Association Chairman Hassan Bakhshi said that approximately $60 million in allegedly illegal or undeclared money was being generated in Pakistan every month and subsequently invested in Dubai. He claimed that this flow has now largely stopped because of the conflict and growing uncertainty across the Gulf region.Currency dealers said the investment trend has begun to reverse, with some Pakistani investors attempting to bring liquid assets back from Dubai. They said increased remittances from the UAE could partly reflect the repatriation of funds by Pakistanis who are reassessing their investments amid the prevailing geopolitical situation.The conflict has also affected Dubai’s attractiveness as an investment and tourism destination. Pakistani investors who previously used Dubai as a base for conducting international business are reportedly facing difficulties in recovering or moving their investments because of the uncertain environment.Before the conflict, a number of Pakistani technology companies had also established operations in Dubai, attracted by its relatively business-friendly environment. Some businesses had moved abroad citing challenges in Pakistan, including internet connectivity disruptions and concerns over regulatory and tax-related interference.Property market participants said the changing investment environment has encouraged some capital to return to Pakistan. Defence, in particular, has emerged as a preferred destination because investors consider property transactions there relatively secure and less exposed to issues such as double filing and fraudulent dealings.Bakhshi claimed that property prices in Defence had increased by around 50% to 60% since the beginning of the Gulf war, with substantial amounts of redirected capital entering the market.The trend is not limited to Lahore. Property dealers in Karachi have also reported a significant increase in prices and market activity. According to property dealer Karim Dad, property prices in several parts of Karachi have risen by approximately 20% to 25%, while both buying and selling activity has increased as liquidity improves.Market participants also attributed the recovery partly to government measures aimed at supporting the construction and property sectors. They said improved liquidity, greater domestic investment and expectations of continued government support could further strengthen Pakistan’s real estate market.Currency dealers believe that if the regional situation remains unstable, additional capital could gradually move back to Pakistan. However, they said the eventual scale of repatriation would depend heavily on how quickly conditions in the Gulf normalize and whether investor confidence in Dubai’s property market recovers.The developments mark a notable shift in the flow of Pakistani property investment, with geopolitical uncertainty in the Gulf potentially encouraging capital that once moved toward Dubai to seek opportunities in Pakistan’s domestic real estate market.

Lahore | ReNews PakistanThe Punjab government has introduced a Property Transparency System, PTS, aimed at giving citizens easier access to verified information about approved housing societies and helping property buyers make safer investment decisions.According to a public awareness notice issued under the Punjab Land Records Authority's land administration reform programme, citizens can use the online system to check important information about housing societies before purchasing or investing in property.The platform provides access to information including the list of approved housing societies, approved Layout Plans, or LOPs, details of plots and other relevant information related to housing schemes.The government has advised prospective buyers and investors to verify the status and details of a housing society through the official portal before making any property transaction.The initiative is intended to improve transparency in Punjab's housing and property sector by making official information more easily accessible to the public. It may also help buyers distinguish between approved projects and schemes whose regulatory status requires further verification.The system offers citizens a relatively simple way to check property related information online rather than relying solely on claims made by developers, property dealers or marketing material.According to the government's awareness campaign, the Property Transparency System is designed around three key benefits: greater protection for property buyers and investors, easier access to verified information, and availability of important housing society records through an official digital platform.Citizens have been urged to obtain relevant information about a housing scheme before buying a plot or making an investment, particularly by checking its approval status and approved layout plan.The government has made the information available through its Punjab Zameen online platform as part of broader efforts to digitise land and property related services and increase public access to official records.

In DHA Lahore, the No Demand Certificate, commonly known as the NDC, is a key part of the property sale and transfer process. In recent days, the reported imposition of a Rs 25,000 fee at the time of applying for an NDC has drawn considerable attention from estate agents and other stakeholders in the property market. The development has raised several important questions: Why has the fee been introduced? What is the justification behind it? And, most importantly, should the buyer or the seller bear the cost?Under DHA Lahore’s transfer procedure, the purpose of an NDC is primarily to confirm that there are no outstanding dues, objections or other issues linked to the property that could obstruct the transfer process. Information available on DHA Lahore’s website places the NDC process among the initial stages of a property transfer, while separate fees are charged for various executive services. This makes it important for DHA authorities to clearly explain the nature of the Rs 25,000 charge, the notification under which it has been introduced and the manner in which it is being applied.DHA Estate Agents Association Director Information Chaudhry Touqeer Asif has also raised questions over the issue. According to him, the first point that needs clarification is why a Rs 25,000 fee has been imposed on an NDC application and whether such an additional charge is justified under the prevailing market conditions.He believes the practical impact of the decision also needs to be assessed, as any new fee directly affects buyers, sellers and property dealers involved in day to day transactions.Touqeer Asif has particularly highlighted the need to determine which party should be responsible for paying the NDC fee. Since the NDC is linked to the clearance of dues and obligations attached to the existing owner and property, the question naturally arises whether the seller should bear the cost or whether it should become part of the broader transfer expenses paid by the buyer.In the absence of a clearly defined policy, such charges can become a source of disagreement between the parties involved in property transactions.Property transfers already involve a number of financial obligations. Some taxes and charges are payable by the buyer, while others are the responsibility of the seller. Income tax laws also prescribe separate advance tax obligations for purchasers and sellers of immovable property. For this reason, any new fee should clearly identify the stage at which it applies and the party responsible for paying it.According to Chaudhry Touqeer Asif, the issue is not limited to the Rs 25,000 amount alone. It is also linked to the overall transfer system and the operational difficulties being faced by estate agents.Against this backdrop, an important meeting of the DHA Estate Agents Association cabinet is being held to discuss members’ concerns, complaints and proposals. Members have been encouraged to provide feedback on whether verification and clearance of outstanding dues are being completed within the required timeframe.If estate agents are facing unnecessary delays, demands for additional documentation or administrative hurdles, they have been asked to identify those issues so they can be taken up with the relevant authorities.The conduct of transfer officers and their interaction with association members is also expected to be discussed. Touqeer Asif has urged members to report any legitimate grievance relating to an official or a specific procedure.He has stressed that the objective should not be to target individuals, but to help develop a transfer system that is faster, clearer and more professional.The DHA Estate Agents Association also maintains that feedback from members should not be collected merely as a formality. Instead, genuine complaints and workable recommendations should be placed before the relevant authorities, particularly the Director Transfer, so that practical solutions can be considered.For this reason, Touqeer Asif has asked members not only to highlight problems but also to put forward constructive suggestions for improving the existing system.The issue carries wider significance because confidence in the property market depends heavily on clear rules, advance disclosure of charges and transparent allocation of costs. Both buyers and sellers need to know how much a property transfer is likely to cost and which party is responsible for each payment.Unexpected or insufficiently explained charges can create uncertainty and complicate transactions.The debate over the NDC fee should therefore not be viewed simply as a dispute over an additional charge. It also offers an opportunity for DHA management and the estate agents’ association to review the broader transfer mechanism.If the Rs 25,000 fee is linked to an administrative requirement, improved service, additional verification or another specific facility, that purpose should be clearly communicated. On the other hand, if the charge ultimately proves to be an unnecessary additional burden, the concerns of estate agents, buyers and sellers deserve to be heard.Touqeer Asif’s decision to seek direct feedback from association members is significant because it can help bring practical, ground level problems before the appropriate forum.The more important question now is how far the recommendations emerging from the association’s meeting will be acted upon and what clarification or corrective steps DHA management may take regarding the Rs25,000 NDC fee and other transfer related issues.Maintaining confidence in the property market requires more than simply introducing fees. The purpose of every charge, the procedure for its collection and the party responsible for paying it must also be clearly defined.A timely and meaningful consultation between DHA management and estate agents could reduce uncertainty, address genuine concerns and enable both buyers and sellers to carry out property transactions with greater confidence.

Lahore | ReNews PakistanProperty buyers across Punjab can now check the legal status of housing societies online before purchasing a plot or house, as the provincial government expands its digital verification system aimed at improving transparency and reducing fraud in the real estate market.The facility is available through the Punjab Land Records Authority's Housing Societies Management System (HSMS), which provides citizens with an online directory for conducting an initial verification of housing schemes operating across the province.Through PLRA's official housing society directory, prospective buyers can search for a scheme by selecting the relevant authority, division, district, tehsil and housing society name. Available records can then provide information about the scheme, including its legal classification.The initiative is particularly significant for property buyers who previously had to rely heavily on information supplied by developers, dealers or housing societies themselves when determining whether a project had the necessary approvals.However, the online directory represents only one component of a broader restructuring of Punjab's property registration and housing-society management system.Earlier in 2026, the Punjab government moved towards bringing private housing societies under a unified digital verification framework through HSMS. The reforms are intended to reduce dependence on the traditional "file" system under which property rights and transactions were frequently represented through documents issued by developers rather than through a centralised government-backed ownership record.Under the new framework, property transactions are increasingly being linked with verified plot locations and records maintained through PLRA.The transition has moved particularly rapidly in Lahore.Housing societies falling within the jurisdiction of the Lahore Development Authority were directed to transfer and integrate their property records with PLRA's HSMS by June 30, 2026.From July 1, the new system effectively shifted plot transactions in participating Lahore housing schemes towards PLRA backed property certificates instead of the conventional developer issued file system.The reform is designed to create a more traceable record of property ownership and transactions while reducing risks associated with duplicate files, fraudulent allotments, disputed ownership and the sale of plots whose physical location or regulatory status may be unclear.The Punjab Land Records Authority is well positioned to operate the system because it already manages much of the province's digitised land record infrastructure.Established under the Punjab Land Records Authority Act 2017 and operating under the Board of Revenue Punjab, PLRA was created as part of the province's transition from traditional manual land records towards a centralised digital system.The authority has subsequently expanded its role in property documentation and has been working towards bringing private housing society records within a more formal registration and verification framework.The latest online facility could provide an important additional layer of protection for people considering investments in housing projects, particularly in a market where questions surrounding approvals, land ownership, layout plans and no-objection certificates can substantially affect the value and legality of a property.The system, however, should not be treated as a complete substitute for legal due diligence.An online search can provide buyers with an initial indication of a housing society's status, but purchasers should still verify ownership documents, approved layout plans, relevant NOCs, registration records and the title and status of the underlying land.For high-value transactions, independent legal verification remains particularly important.The introduction of the searchable directory therefore gives buyers an additional screening mechanism before they hand over money to a developer, property dealer or seller.A society appearing in the official database can provide useful information for further investigation, while an absent, incomplete or unclear record should prompt buyers to seek additional verification from the relevant development authority and PLRA before proceeding with a transaction.The development also signals a broader change in Punjab's real estate market. As housing societies become increasingly integrated with PLRA's digital infrastructure, government-backed property records and certificates are expected to assume greater importance in transactions that have traditionally depended heavily on developer maintained records.For buyers, the practical message is straightforward: checking the official digital record should now become one of the first steps before purchasing a plot or house in a private housing scheme in Punjab.

Lahore | ReNews PakistanPrivate housing societies in Lahore have until August 31, 2026 to upload their complete property purchase and sale records to the Housing Societies Management System (HSMS), as Punjab moves towards a digital system aimed at making property ownership easier to verify and reducing fraud.The deadline has attracted attention on social media, where several property pages are describing it as a major change for buyers and investors. However, the August 31 deadline applies mainly to housing societies for completing the transfer of their records to the digital system.For property buyers and sellers in Lahore, the more important change has already taken effect. According to a public notice displayed by the Lahore Development Authority (LDA), a Property Certificate has been required for property transactions in Lahore housing schemes since July 1, 2026.Under the new system, the Property Certificate serves as official proof linked to property ownership records. The move is intended to reduce dependence on traditional files and make it easier to check whether the person selling a property is recorded as its owner.Private housing societies have been directed to place their purchase and sale records on HSMS by August 31. Reports on the government directive say societies that fail to comply may face action under the LDA Act, 1975.The Punjab Land Records Authority also describes its Green Property Certificate as an official document used to verify the ownership and legal status of a property.For buyers, the change means that relying only on a property file, allotment letter or a dealer's claim may no longer be enough. Before making a payment, buyers should check the status of the housing scheme and confirm that the property can be verified through the official digital record.LDA currently provides separate online sections for approved, illegal and regular housing schemes, along with tools for checking property and application status.The digitalisation drive could become particularly important in Lahore's property market, where disputes over ownership, duplicate files and incomplete society records have long remained a concern for buyers.With the August 31 deadline approaching, the key question will be how many private housing societies complete their digital records on time and what action authorities take against schemes that remain outside the system.

Lahore | ReNews PakistanProperty buyers and investors in Punjab can check information about housing societies online through the Punjab Land Records Authority’s (PLRA) Housing Society Management System, providing a convenient way to carry out preliminary verification before purchasing a plot, house or other property in a housing project.The online facility allows citizens to search the housing societies directory using details such as division, district, tehsil and the name of the housing society. The system then displays the information available in official records for the selected project.The service is particularly important for prospective buyers because the legal and approval status of a housing society can have significant implications for property ownership, development permissions, infrastructure and future resale.Before investing in a housing project, buyers are generally advised to establish whether the scheme has obtained the necessary approvals from the relevant development or regulatory authority. Depending on the location of a project, the competent authority may vary, making verification an important part of the property-buying process.How the Online Verification System WorksCitizens can access the housing society search facility through the Punjab Zameen portal and open the approved societies directory.The search system provides several fields through which users can narrow down the relevant housing project. These include division, district, tehsil and housing society name.After entering the available information, the user can select the “Search Now” option to retrieve matching records.This enables buyers to check available official information about a project instead of depending entirely on advertisements, property dealers, social media promotions or claims made by developers.The online system can also be useful when two projects have similar names or when a housing scheme is being marketed across different areas. Searching by geographical details can help users identify the relevant project more accurately.Why Verification Matters Before Buying PropertyHousing society approval is one of the key issues buyers should investigate before committing money to a property transaction.Marketing material, booking forms or claims by an agent should not by themselves be treated as proof that an entire housing project, or every block and extension within it, has received all necessary approvals.Buyers should therefore examine the available official record carefully and, where necessary, seek further confirmation from the relevant development authority or government department.Particular attention should be paid to the exact name and location of the society, its approved area and any information available regarding specific phases, blocks or extensions. A project may undergo changes over time, and the status of different portions of a development may not necessarily be identical.Prospective purchasers should also verify property ownership and land records separately where relevant, as checking a housing society’s regulatory status does not replace due diligence on the particular plot or property being purchased.A Digital Tool for Safer Property DecisionsThe PLRA facility provides citizens with a useful first step for conducting property due diligence from home. It can help prospective buyers identify available government records before visiting a developer’s office, paying a booking amount or entering into a property transaction.However, buyers should treat the online directory as part of a broader verification process rather than relying on a single source of information.Before making a substantial investment, purchasers should cross-check the latest status with the competent authority, examine ownership and title documents, confirm the status of the specific plot or block and ensure that information supplied by the seller or developer corresponds with official records.The Punjab Zameen housing societies directory can be accessed through the official PLRA portal:Check Housing Society Status on Punjab ZameenThe availability of an online verification facility gives property buyers another way to independently examine a housing project before committing their savings, potentially reducing their reliance on unverified marketing claims and informal sources.

Real estate marketing in Pakistan is rapidly shifting away from traditional methods and towards social media platforms. Until a few years ago, property dealers, newspaper advertisements, banners and roadside signboards were among the main tools used to market houses, plots, shops and commercial buildings. Today, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp have become important channels for property promotion. The shift has given the real estate industry access to a much wider audience, but it has also raised new questions about transparency, credibility and consumer protection.One of the biggest advantages of social media is its ability to connect property sellers and developers with thousands, and in some cases millions, of potential buyers within a short period of time. Images, videos, maps, prices and payment plans for housing societies, residential schemes and commercial projects can now be shared instantly. Overseas Pakistanis, in particular, are increasingly able to explore property opportunities and new developments without being physically present in the country.Video marketing has also become a major feature of the industry. Property agents routinely produce video tours of houses, plots and commercial buildings, while drone footage is used to showcase housing projects, road networks and surrounding areas. Such content allows prospective buyers to form an initial impression of a location from their homes and enables agents to expand the reach of their marketing campaigns.However, the rapid growth of social media marketing in real estate has a more troubling side. Not every online advertisement is accurate or trustworthy. In some cases, unapproved housing schemes, disputed land or properties with unclear legal status are promoted through professionally produced videos and attractive advertisements. Prices, locations, development progress and expected investment returns may also be exaggerated to attract buyers.The risks become more serious when investors make decisions solely on the basis of a social media post or promotional video. Property is a major financial investment, which makes due diligence essential. Before making any payment, buyers should verify land ownership, approvals from the relevant development authority, the project's no-objection certificate, official records, and the legal status of the person or company offering the property for sale.Another emerging issue is the growing use of celebrities and social media influencers to promote real estate projects. This raises an important question: when an influencer endorses a housing or commercial project, has its legal status actually been verified, or is the endorsement simply part of a paid advertising arrangement? The trend highlights the growing need for clearer rules on disclosure, advertising standards and accountability.The answer is not to discourage social media marketing in Pakistan's real estate sector. Digital platforms are efficient, modern and increasingly important. The challenge is to make their use more transparent and responsible. Regulatory authorities need to monitor the online promotion of illegal or unapproved projects, while buyers must understand that a Facebook post, YouTube video or TikTok clip cannot replace proper legal verification.The future of successful real estate marketing in Pakistan will therefore depend not only on attractive videos and ambitious claims, but also on accurate information, regulatory compliance and, above all, the confidence of buyers.

Lahore | ReNews PakistanProperty marketing linked with Independence Day celebrations has become increasingly visible on social media in DHA Lahore, with real estate dealers and marketing pages using the Azadi Festival atmosphere to promote different property options.Social media posts being circulated ahead of 14 August feature plots, houses, commercial properties and property files available in different parts of DHA Lahore.The marketing campaigns combine Independence Day themes with property promotions in an effort to attract buyers and investors during a period of increased public activity and engagement on social media.Real estate businesses regularly use major national occasions and festivals to run promotional campaigns, special offers and investment-focused marketing.The current activity around DHA Lahore reflects a wider trend in which property dealers and developers link their marketing with major events to increase visibility and generate buyer interest.For prospective buyers, however, promotional campaigns should not replace proper due diligence. Property ownership, approvals, location, development status, payment terms and other relevant documents should be independently verified before making any investment decision.The Independence Day-linked marketing activity is expected to remain visible across property focused social media pages around 14 August as businesses compete for greater attention from potential buyers.