Interview with Matthew Solomon – Palm Jumeirah specialist at haus & haus

Matthew’s self-effacing and infectious personality means that feedback from his clients usually say one thing: "he is a pleasure to do business with". Find out more on what makes him tick…

How would you describe yourself in 5 words?

“Ethical. Reliable. Persistent. Enthusiastic. Charismatic.”

You started your career in interiors working for more than 16 years amassing a wealth of experience all over the world, with a wide spectrum of clients. How would you say this experience benefits you today in your current role as a real estate broker?

“The main thing would be the ability to deal with a wide range of people from varying backgrounds. This job is similar. Being able to understand and show empathy with people who have different motivations, are from different countries, but with the same end goal in mind has proven priceless. Dubai is such a melting pot of cultures, and in this job, you really have to ‘merge’ in order to be able to deliver results.”

Where else in the world can you go to the beach, visit a 5 star hotel, go for a run in the park, go shopping, all within a few minutes from home?

What is the best part of your job, and what is the most challenging?\

“I would say the best part of the job is when you have been instrumental in finding someone a new home, and all of the emotions that brings. It can be quite a stressful process anywhere in the world, and believe me, here is no exception. With regards to the most challenging, the ‘challenge’ also makes it one of the best parts of the job. Being responsible for everything, from taking photographs, marketing, viewing, right through to negotiation and closing the deals. I think I speak on behalf of all my colleagues that this aspect makes the job even more rewarding.”

If you were an investor, which 3 developments would be most interesting for you on the Palm Jumeirah and why?

“That’s a good question. There is so much to choose from, for varying reasons. For simple, reliable returns, I would say one beds on the left side of Shoreline. Beach access, close to the park and shops. Good to rent to young couples or single professionals. And with prices having softened, now is a good time to invest here. For something of a higher premium but still with good capability for capital growth, perhaps something like Tiara or Oceana. As a bit of a curveball, I would also consider something like Anantara on the crescent. There are some competitive sales prices there at present and being part of a 5 star hotel, you have the versatility of using the property for long term rentals, putting it in the hotel pool, or for use as a holiday home.”