The Dhaka real estate landscape has always been dynamic, shaped by rapid urbanization, population growth, infrastructure development, and shifting economic conditions. For buyers, sellers, and investors alike, one critical question continues to dominate discussions: Is Dhaka currently a buyer’s market or a seller’s market? A closer real estate market analysis helps clarify where the balance of power truly lies.
Understanding Buyer’s vs. Seller’s Market
In simple terms, a buyer’s market exists when property supply exceeds demand. Buyers have more choices, stronger negotiation power, and greater flexibility on price and payment terms. Conversely, a seller’s market occurs when demand outpaces supply, allowing sellers to command higher prices and close deals more quickly.
Dhaka’s situation, however, is not entirely black and white. The city’s real estate market reflects characteristics of both, depending on location, property type, and buyer profile.
Current Supply and Demand Dynamics in Dhaka
Over the past decade, Dhaka has seen a significant increase in residential developments, particularly apartments in areas such as Mirpur, Uttara, Bashundhara, Badda, and parts of Old Dhaka. This growing inventory has led to heightened competition among developers.
At the same time, demand has become more selective. Buyers are no longer purchasing purely based on location; they now prioritize legal transparency, construction quality, community features, and long-term value. This shift has slowed absorption in some segments, tilting certain parts of the market toward buyers.
However, in prime locations like Gulshan, Banani, Baridhara, and select central zones, land scarcity continues to restrict supply. Well-designed projects in these areas still experience strong demand, maintaining seller-friendly conditions.
Pricing Trends and Negotiation Power
Price growth in Dhaka’s property market has moderated compared to earlier years. Construction costs have risen due to increased prices of materials and utilities, but developers are cautious about passing the full burden onto buyers.
As a result, negotiations have become more common. Flexible payment plans, discounts on lump-sum payments, and value-added offerings are increasingly used to attract buyers—clear indicators of buyer leverage in many mid-range and peripheral markets.
That said, premium and ready apartments in established neighborhoods often maintain firm pricing, reinforcing seller strength in those segments.
Buyer Behavior and Financing Constraints
Another key factor in this property market analysis is buyer sentiment. Many buyers are adopting a “wait-and-see” approach, influenced by economic uncertainty, financing limitations, and regulatory scrutiny. Home loan accessibility, interest rates, and documentation requirements play a major role in slowing purchase decisions.
This cautious mindset gives buyers more control, especially in projects with high inventory levels or extended delivery timelines.
Seller Perspective: Where Sellers Still Hold Power
Despite these buyer-friendly signals, Dhaka cannot be labeled a full buyer’s market. Sellers with legally compliant projects, strong developer reputations, and strategic locations continue to close deals efficiently. Properties offering modern amenities, wellness-focused living, and community-centric designs are particularly resilient.
Moreover, long-term investors recognize Dhaka’s fundamentals, limited land availability, steady population growth, and ongoing infrastructure expansion, supporting sustained demand over time.
So, Is Dhaka a Buyer’s or Seller’s Market?
The most accurate conclusion from this real estate market analysis is that Dhaka is currently a selective buyer’s market. Buyers enjoy greater negotiation power in many areas, especially in mid-range and emerging locations. However, sellers retain an advantage in premium zones and high-quality, well-positioned developments.
In essence, the market rewards informed decision-making. Buyers who conduct thorough research and sellers who focus on value, transparency, and differentiation are best positioned to succeed.
Final Thoughts
Dhaka’s real estate market is evolving rather than declining or overheating. It is no longer uniformly seller-driven, nor fully buyer-dominated. Instead, it reflects a mature phase where quality, location, and long-term vision matter more than speculation.
For anyone navigating Dhaka’s property landscape today, understanding these nuances is essential. Whether buying or selling, informed strategy, not timing alone, will define success in this ever-changing market.
