To save those costs, you might want to stick to some year build and older, for example, if you cannot do inspections on the properties that you are buying due to off-market deals or something else that is hindering you (all sellers I buy from do not want anyone in the home till we close).

Rents are projected to keep climbing next year, and there are still panicked sellers out there, which means opportunities are popping up.

My goal is to gain a solid understanding of the process, master deal analysis, and ultimately close my first deal.Right now, I’m focused on learning the basics — from finding motivated sellers to building a strong network of cash buyers.

Sellers rarely mind the low deposit and extended closing period due to the nature of the property, or at least they can be made aware of the fact that their lot has issues that will take MY time and MY money to solve and then they come around.My terms on the flip are: Minimum 10K spread between purchase and flip value.  1-2K deposit upfront to hold the property for 7 days then the deposit becomes non-refundable after the 7th day and the buyer has the same amount of time that I originally negotiated with seller typically 8-12 months(its a purchase contract but because of contingencies its essentially an option).  

If you are going to do direct to seller then yes, worth it!

I cold call and go direct to the seller and I have a 3 person team that pretty much just calls all day long for me.

Quote from @Dan Grove: Some combination of cash to seller, closing costs, repairs, construction, paying off arrears, assignment fees, commissions.   

they just aren't going to shine until after you've owned them for 10+ years.i'm personally trying to buy on seller finance right now. 

This gives you a foundation for making a fair offer.Secure Financing: Be prepared to show you’re a serious buyer with funding lined up, whether through cash, traditional financing, or a creative option like seller financing.Have a Strategy for Repairs or Development: If the property is distressed, outline how you’ll handle improvements to bring it back to productive use.

Dubai is a very transitory place where expats move in and out of, and this means lots of motivated sellers.