annorman | ExpatWoman.com
 

annorman

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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 September 2015 - 13:44
If you have a choice between shopping here or US for christmas, I think you will save far more by doing it in the states. Here, like most things, Christmas is over-priced, especially as its an occasion celebrated by Western expats so they know they can ramp up the commercialisation!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 September 2015 - 13:39
sounds like the 50p man in Benefits Street :-)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 September 2015 - 08:05
yes there are hundreds of garages behind MOE - I used one behind Gold and Diamond park a while ago and it only cost a couple of hundred dirhams to get a few scrathes touched up
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 September 2015 - 08:00
Strictly speaking same gender massage is the law and hence this is the practice observed by almost all the 4 and 5 star hotels. You can either go to the likes of Dreamworks or the lower quality hotels for a lady to massage your husband.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 August 2015 - 07:53
Hi, with the summer months coming to an end, I was thinking about experimenting with some home grown produce......I'm not sure what works best in this climate - can anyone give me any suggestions on the easiest / best options? Thanks
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 August 2015 - 22:26
depends on the type and quality of the fabrics - for what you describe, I don't think the price you quoted is extortionate to cover 3 bedrooms, a study, living room, dining room and kitchen. We paid slightly more for a similar set up
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 August 2015 - 22:22
Agreed - always risky logging into social media, banking, email accounts when on public internet portals. What usually happens is that you naturally surf the web as you would in your home - so you log into FB, then you go onto a search engine and go onto various pages.....all it takes is for the next person to hit the 'back' button and, in many cases, they can access the sites where you have logged in.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 August 2015 - 18:46
Hi there, I've found 'Shop and Ship' the cheapest option when shipping in quantities - you only pay for the weight of goods. Thanks
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 August 2015 - 15:33
Hi - how does she presently sustain herself / her daughter in dubai without a job? The likelihood is that if she was to be successful in getting a job, the issue around nurseries / nanny would probably be resolved. What field of work is she looking at getting employment? I know of someone looking for an admin assistant which would pay around 8k - 10k depending on experience (native English speaker required) so possibly an option. Good luck
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 August 2015 - 15:25
Hi, saw a few styles / sizes of wooden sheds today in Dubai Garden centre - but probably not the same variety as Ace in Festival City
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 August 2015 - 11:30
Try Cooper dermatology on Al Wasl Road (Umm Suqueim 2) - I would recommend Dr Rolf who is European and has decades of experience on all aspects of dermatology and should be able to give advice on aspects such as complexion etc.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 August 2015 - 11:26
Hi, I was pretty sure I still had my copy but just realised that DH had just binned it yesterday. You can get hold of back copies from the publisher (I've done this before for copies I missed whilst I was on leave). Good luck
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 August 2015 - 11:09
I've used arabindfishes (link on the first post of this thread) a few times - always comes fresh, clean and saves the hassle of trawling through fish markets and pay far less than the likes of Spinneys / Waitrose.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 August 2015 - 11:07
Hi, just bought some very well priced laminate flooring from Floorworld in the Marina - staff are very helpful and knowledgeable as well which is always welcome here
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 August 2015 - 22:22
You can get them in Ace Hardware
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 August 2015 - 23:04
If you live in Umm Suqeim, one of my favourite restaurants which I always try and take guests is the Seaview restaurant on the harbour. All options are local and the likes of the seafood platter will surely impress even the most selective guests. Prices are very reasonable and views are amazing. Otherwise, any of the restaurants in Souq Al Bahar where you have an elevated view of the fountains is also a sure hit! Enjoy!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 August 2015 - 21:55
Hi ladies, I was going to post this on the Kuwait site but just had a look over there and there is hardly any posting activity so hopefully I may have more success here. DH has just been offered the top job at one of the banks in Kuwait - professionally, its what he's been aspiring to do for most of his career and the package is really staggering. We visited last week for a couple of days and it is a different world from Dubai where we are very settled and have a fantastic lifestyle. I've got a really decent job in also and would have the luxury of not having to work (DH would also finish work by 6pm each day)..........but I really am reluctant to leave Dubai and move to Kuwait. Does anyone else have experience of living there - I would be interested in any experiences that other ladies have had?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 August 2015 - 17:29
Hi Ladies, Anyone else been to this event? I only found out about it yesterday evening - got a call yesterday evening from a friend who could barely contain her excitement. Basically she was at this event and was hoovering up Michael Kors bags, Tiffany's accessories, Nine West shoes, clothing from Hugo Boss etc at clearance prices. She insisted I went over there immediately as everything was being priced to go. I decided to wait until this morning to make a visit as I have been to these WTC events before and never been too impressed and 4 hours later, I think I've now managed to get gifts for everyone for the rest of the year including christmas. Some excellent deals - 80% of Prosche clothing, 60% off Mont Blanc cuff links, I bought myself 4 pairs of shoes from 9 west costing 30 dhs per pair (one of which I was hoping to buy in the malls at 300dhs a few weeks back), Tiffany's bracelet for 65% off, Raybans at 50% off. Also managed to get a few different coloured lacoste t-shirts for AED 150 - bargain! Ended up filling up the boot 3 times throughout the course of the afternoon - rarely seen these sorts of deals in UAE. Still tonnes of stock in most of the outlets when I left at around 4pm. They are also shifting loads of stuff from Next / Debenhams - end of season clothing.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 August 2015 - 10:34
Hi Prethihappy, As you're looking at doing something part time, I'd suggest you look at either CIMA or ACCA - they have a qualifications which range from beginners right through to becoming a full-on chartered accountant. And these are globally recognised so great for your profile and if you enjoy the initial beginner's modules, these can go towards credits if you do decide you want to progress through the various qualifications. Both websites will have loads of information on how to enroll etc. Good luck!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 August 2015 - 08:51
Hi - I have a photographer friend mojo who should be albe to sort you out - 055 362 6469
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 August 2015 - 08:45
Hey, I honestly think the chances for your husband are still high - he has good international experience, has UAE experience and is in HR which really does provide scope across sectors (unlike bankers). If you aren't having any luck via online networks, I would suggest that he visits Dubai and really blitzes contacts, networks, recruitment consultants. We have 2 different sets of friends, who were in the same situation as your husband (left UAE to go back to the UK reluctantly, before looking for opportunities to return), who have both managed to return this year (and a third one is one his way). And thats how they managed to do it - by visiting and meeting people face-to-face, their intent appears to be more serious. Make sure he contacts the likes of the big recruiters beforehand to pre-arrange meetings - what you tend to find is that they become a lot more responsive (and motivated to identify opportunities) after meeting. Also I'm sure your hubby still has some friends / ex-colleagues who are in the UAE. No harm in meeting these guys for a coffee and informally try to guage if there are any potential opportunities - surprising how much more he might glean than just sending them a speculative email (which they may never respond to). All these conversations may only provide some vague leads.....but it gives him scope to follow-up on these leads and stay in touch with contacts here may lead to a job. A lot of the big Abu Dhabi banks are also aggressively diversifying the nationalities of their staff - in DH's bank, they have hired over 30 staff from Europe this year. I'm sure it will happen for you guys also but it will take more time if you are doing this purely from the UK.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 July 2015 - 11:49
Recent articles are saying that they are ready to roll out the new VAT scheme and could be in place before the end of the year. With the inevitable increase following the fuel increments, this could be a real double whammy. Cost of flights is sure to be impacted big time and it scares me how much Emirates flights will cost once they pass on these additional taxes!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 July 2015 - 22:56
From what I've seen, rents are actually down from 12 months ago - there has been so much new supply coming on the market, Russian demand has disappeared due to their weak currency and the $ has really strong.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 July 2015 - 17:01
If you have the Entertainer app, I would use their Dreamworks voucher to get BOGOF which you can use for the couple massage. The last time I went, it cost AED 225 and you can expect a certain standard of massage there. They have couples rooms in most of their outlet - enjoy!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 21:31
Have done both Al Qasr and Westin and I prefer the former. We did Westin this year and there wasn't really much difference from the usual brunch in terms of selection or entertainment - but the venue was completely packed out and the food quality seemed to be lower than usual, the food took longer to replenish, as did the bubbly. Al Qasr is also pretty busy but the quality always seems to be consistently good, even at christmas - we're going back this year but had to book almost a year in advance. Plus they have everything you would expect in a traditional christmas meal which really makes it feel more christmassy!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 21:24
Agreed - iplayer allows you to choose any of the matches live (up to 15 in one go) and also you've got all the legends commentating there - McEnroe, Becker etc and Sue Barker and Tim Henman also providing analysis. Great if you're from the UK and used to their presence :-)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 21:20
Yes we must have bought from Cara (Gold and Diamond Park) around 20 times over the past few years and never had a problem - I've even taken various pieces back and actually been paid more (than we paid) when I've had a change of heart. It always seems to be the busiest place there and this is, in part, down to the pricing policy they have which involves working on a minimum 7% profit margin (far lower than others in the G & D park). I've also had a number of UK friends who have bought there and managed to immediately sell in the UK for far more....hence free flights in most cases!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 21:15
There are a few things which can be done to get rid of bed bugs - the safest ways revolve around heat.....if you have an outdoor area which catches the sun, you could try taking your furniture / cushions etc outside, directly in sunlight during the day and this will cause bed bugs to die and also disinfect your wares (within a matter of minutes at this time of year). Also a service which most pest control places provide for treatment of bed bugs is a steam-cleaning service where they will run a steamer over your mattress which will have a similar effect. These steamers aren't too expensive so you could easily pick one of these up and do this yourself - they are also really useful for cleaning the likes of curtains, rugs and sofas so it can work out to be a decent investment. I've heard of some really bad stories of pest control companies who use some very powerful / toxic chemicals so perhaps try these options first. Good luck
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 June 2015 - 22:46
Glad to be of assistance - hopefully you get the result that you want but your situation really is win win :-)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 June 2015 - 22:15
1. Can I negotiate the salary with Company A despite my (arguable) verbal agreement to salary at interview? Why not? If they don't agree, you already have a far better offer waiting for you with Company B.....so I see this as win-win. 2. When would be the best time to enter into negotiations with Company A, i.e. before they are making approvals to make the formal offer or should I wait for the final offer (which may be considered by them that I am timewasting and annoy them). It really has to be before they have received approval - you have a solid offer so no point on wasting their time in producing an offer which i) is less than you've been offered elsewhere and ii) is not acceptable. You are in a strong bargaining position so you can afford to call the shots on this one. 3. Should I just be honest (esp. since I now have formed a good relationship with Company A) and say I have an offer from Company B and ask if they can match or better it? I always say that honesty / transparency is the best policy - in almost anything in life. I don't really know what you gain by not doing so in your situation.....what is the benefit of not disclosing the other offer?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 June 2015 - 22:10
Hi Shzee, The company DH and I worked for in Dubai, exited the Middle East in 2012 which resulted in about 20 people being relocated in locations back in the UK. The good news is that pretty much 75% of them have had the same experience as you and have made it back to Dubai (after persisting with their attempts to find jobs). The good news is that recruitment, especially for expats with International experience really seems to have picked up towards the end of 2013 onwards and I actually know of 3 families from Scotland who are in the midst of moving to UAE. I would also consider looking into Abu Dhabi as I'm aware that the big local banks are all looking to diversify their personnel (e.g. NBAD have a new third/third/third policy for their departments - third local, third subcontinent and third Western) which has resulted in a huge glut of Europeans being recruited on really decent packages. Hope your hubby is properly hooked into Linkedin as our close friends (also from Glasgow) was recently headhunted via there. Also bayt and gulftalent also good places to search for professional roles - the good thing about being in HR is that all large organisations have a need for them and hence he should not be short of options! Good luck!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 May 2015 - 08:52
Yes agreed with bingo12, make sure you declare any offshore monies as otherwise there could be scrutiny over tax evasion. You will only be liable for tax on any interest earned on your 500k from the date you become permanently resident back in the UK.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 May 2015 - 21:21
Hi Hitch, I remember we had the same dilemma when we first contemplated a big transfer......this is probably not the place you want such a large amount to transfer. We opted for HSBC - what I would recommend is that you also get them to open a GBP account in Jersey / offshore. You can then use the Global Transfers facility to move money real time (you'll see the money instantly to your UK offshore account) with zero transaction / transfer cost. You can then move this money to any UK High Street Bank at zero cost. With the strong US$, DH has shifted over AED 1m over the last 6 months with no bother. Also there will be no tax implications on your transfer as you will be able demonstrate that this was earned overseas over 7 years. Good luck and all the best.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 April 2015 - 20:14
Hi Ladies, I was hoping never to have to write about one of these incidents but unfortunately the time has come.... DH has just told me about having the worst start to the week - he was waiting for the security barrier to come up to get into his car park for work as he has done hundreds of times. Next minute he knows someone comes up from nowhere and crashes right into the back of his car (at pace). He gets out and the other guy blames him for changing lanes too late before turning towards the barrier. DH insisted that he'd checked his mirrors, saw there were no cars, signalled and then turned right to wait in front of the barrier. Security came out to see what had happened - they took pictures and asked for the details of both DH and the other guy.........the car park is for staff only and the other guy refused to give the name or any details to Security. Security's view was that the guy had tried to tail gate DH to access the car park and did not appear to have access. The other guy moved his car to the side and stayed in his car. DH stayed with Security who advised that they would call police etc...... Unfortunately the other guy was of Arabian origin (although possibly not Emiratie). When the police eventually came, they didn't even bother asking DH what his version of events were. He just explained that it was his fault and asked him to sign a form which was 100% written in Arabic. DH then tried to make a case re. the fact that he accesses the same car park every day, the road was completely clear when he turned, this guy came from nowhere and hit him from behind etc but the police just did not want to listen. Their conclusion had been made up...security were reluctant to get too involved until DH encouraged one of them to explain their view that this guy had no reason to be trying to enter the car park but this did not seem to be relevant to them. Its now obvious that the Arabian guy had called the police and explained his version of the events - meantime DH was with Security who had called the police also (but won't have gone into the details). So DH took the pink slip, the other guy took the green slip - we've always heard stories like this but it all seems so unfair. Not sure whether there is anything we can do - DH is very annoyed and really unprepared for this. I feel like contesting the decision but just don't know if its worth it. Any views out there?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 April 2015 - 07:00
Silk 1970 - did you ever get a personal CD player? I've got a pristine sony discman which I give to you - I think I was given this just before MP3 players flooded the market and hence i only ever used it a couple of times
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 April 2015 - 10:22
In the cold light of day - what would the result have been had a lady tapped a man on the shoulder?! Appreciate that we are in an Arab country but the difference is terms of repercussions should not be so polarised! This does not put the UAE in a good light and, in an age where the BBC have provided very positive coverage over women in the UAE (Is Dubai the best place for women in the Middle East?), this kind of coverage really does run the risk of shifting perception back decades. http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20150422-which-women-get-ahead-in-dubai I suspect that the story has somewhat been sensationalised (hence look at the debate it has caused here) - I think it is important that the authorities exercise an element of common sense on this case for the country, whilst also ensuring that there is some redress for the girl who felt violated.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 April 2015 - 18:01
Tallybalt - that is actually a fantastic idea!! Fresh pizza dough for around 1dh per pizza...............I've been using the vitamix to make my own but my results have been pretty mixed. I love your idea and will certainly give that a go as I usually buy the pakistani bread anyway whenever I'm in that neck of the woods. I've tried the supermarket ones (fridge and freezer) and they are 15dhs +!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 April 2015 - 17:58
I suppose it is a difficult question to answer Cleopatra - as you say, they seem to be everywhere in Al Barsha so I think it is difficult to generalise that they are all good / not. I'm sure, like everywhere, there are good massage places and some which are not so good (and probably some which are in the 'suspect' category). For consistency, I've always tried to stick to the chains / hotels but there are so many places across Dubai, there are bound to be several gems dotted around!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 April 2015 - 08:01
Al Boom in Al Wasl also have a number of options on rash vests so worth giving them a try!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 April 2015 - 20:45
try RAK free zone as well - my friend's established his own cleaning services business and decided that this was the easiest, cheapest way he could do it without requiring the involvement of a local sponsor.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 April 2015 - 20:35
yes I agree with the other ladies - man / men with a van is certainly the best option for moving within the same apartment once. I did something similar once when I moved into a neighbouring apartment - saves loads of time transporting everything to the lift, down a ramp, outside to the truck, then exactly the same the other side.....also they don't technically need the van so it should work out much cheaper!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 April 2015 - 20:33
Unfortunately in this region, it is still very much 'who you know' and its very difficult to get something by relying on the internet / recruitment agents. I think the fact that you've had 10 interviews shows that your profile is strong (I know loads of people who would be happy to get any interview to keep them motivated during an incredibly frustrating process). Within my circle of friends, almost everyone who has found a job in Dubai, has done so via knowing someone who has a high position (or someone who knows someone else who might be able to help). I think this is the best way - don't feel bad / proud by asking everyone you know (and ask DH to do the same with all his friends and colleagues and I'm pretty sure something will work out for you....you also stand a far better chance of being successful at interview if you are a warm rather than cold candidate. Some big organisations also have incentive schemes to refer friends for vacancies as statistically this provides a bit of quality control around candidates. Good luck and keep trying - the big benefit you have is that all companies, regardless of sector, requires experienced HR people!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 April 2015 - 14:02
Yes you pay cash for the blood test - there is an ATM in the place so you'll be fine as long as you have your bank card (and funds in your account). I think the purposes of the test is for disease but I don't believe you get anything in writing which confirms exactly what tests they do. Best time of day is first thing in the morning - it opens at 8am and your sponsor does not have to attend with you (a sponsor can be responsible for thousands of employees so you can imagine how impractical that would be). My company visa is renewable every 2 years which i think is fairly normal although I think this can be a 3-year period. The duration will be on the form and will clearly displayed on your Emirates ID card.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 April 2015 - 19:27
hi janatks, can you please post your email address and I will be in touch re. a couple of potential leads DH may have at his current company.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 April 2015 - 22:19
agreed there is quite a bit of construction round there......have to say, I do love Silverene though!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 April 2015 - 07:43
whatever happened to the sentiment 'its the thought that counts'? Expat kids in Dubai here can already be considered as incredibly fortunate and have everything.....therefore AED 200 gifts from 20+ friends appears to be extravagant.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 April 2015 - 21:52
Barlas, Have a look at souq - there is a Bissell Steam shot handheld cleaner which looks ideal to get into every nook and cranny in your bedfame / mattress etc and only AED 150. Good luck and try to get in there quick....these breed so quickly!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 April 2015 - 21:46
Hi McDubai - aesthetically, I've heard that WA looks great and ticks the boxes in terms of location and amenities. However, something to bear in mind that Select Group are considered to be b-grade in terms of quality and hence I would always recommend Emaar over Select if you were to compare the 2. You will really notice the different in terms of quality of build, finishing and maintenance. Also Select Group are the developers for Torch Tower which is presently under investigation for using cladding which is flammable and Im aware there have been other quality issues with the likes of Yacht Bay and The Point. However, if your daughter is just renting, I think convenience / cost may override quality issues (which would mainly concern owners) and WA isn't a bad option
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 April 2015 - 21:35
yes if you have a 2 month penalty, this will be netted off against any rent which is due back to you as a result of vacating early. In theory, this 2 months is to allow the landlord compensation for time they didn't get to plan another tenant.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 April 2015 - 18:32
Sue R - I've sold before back to the dealer simply because I got an excellent deal as they were familiar with the history of the car and they will always be best placed to sell again at a higher price than any private seller (who may want to flip the car). They honoured the number which was verbally agreed - they should be expecting a few routine scratches / wear & tear which is characteristic of a car of its age so I wouldn't worry too much. Just go to the garage and ask for the quotation in writing. But saves so much hassle (and risk) associated with selling on Dubizzle.