In this Episode the hosts discuss the full lifecycle of buying and renovating a villa in Dubai, focusing first on realistic budgeting. They highlight that buyers must account for purchase-related fees (mortgage, valuation, Dubai Land fees) plus renovation costs, recommending a one-page budget matrix and a 15% contingency on build costs; authority/developer extension fees and volatile procurement/shipping costs can further increase budgets unexpectedly.The conversation then covers design and delivery models: clients often start with interior design aspirations but should consider design-and-build for speed, cost control and fewer handoffs. Practical steps include obtaining DWG/CAD files, creating a clear brief or pre-concept for tendering, validating contractor BOQs against a detailed scope, and using fit-out cost tools or expert site reviews to set realistic expectations.Timelines, variations and project management are emphasised as critical risk areas. The speakers recommend allowing contractors to propose realistic programs, sense-checking schedules, using delay penalties where appropriate, and engaging an experienced project manager early. A good PM (preferably ex-contractor) brings contractor selection, detailed scope/BOQ review, procurement oversight, quality checks and on-site problem solving—often saving more than their fee by preventing costly variations, procurement substitutions, and delays.