Defence Housing Authority and Bahria Town are the two locations that immediately pop into the mind when you think about buying property in Karachi. Whether you are looking for a place to live or somewhere you can invest in this bustling metropolitan, you are most likely stuck in Bahria Town vs DHA Karachi debate.
As per the property trends in the city, Bahria Town and Defence Karachi are two of the most popular areas for renting and buying real estate. Both of these areas are not just meticulously planned. They also offer a wide range of housing options along with modern infrastructure, latest facilities and a secure environment.
Buying real estate is undoubtedly one of the biggest financial decisions most people have to make in their lives. Be it a house or a piece of land, the prices of property have been on an upward spike for the past several years across the country. Whatever the reason may be behind this sharp uptick, one thing is for certain, you cannot decide where to purchase real estate on a whim.
Before investing any money, you need to do an in-depth analysis of the market trends in an area. You should also make sure to take a look at the facilities and amenities available there. Of course, it’s time-consuming and requires a lot of patience, however, it is a necessity that cannot be ignored.
Therefore, in order to make things a little easier for you, here is a Bahria Town vs DHA Karachi comparison that might make it easier for you to decide which area would better suit your needs.
DHA Karachi
DHA is considered one of the most affluent residential societies in the city.
Established by the Armed Forces of Pakistan Welfare Department, this neighbourhood started out as a co-operative housing society for the retired military officials and their families. However, the area soon began drawing attention for its ideal location and flourishing economy. Eventually, regular civilians were also allowed to buy property in DHA Karachi.
Those living in DHA Karachi have easy access to the rest of the city. Furthermore, situated right next to the extremely posh neighbourhood of Clifton Karachi, Defence Housing Authority houses several state-of-the-art hospitals, campuses of popular schools, famous restaurants and cafes, widely-known shopping centres, gyms, salons and much more.
The entire area has been sub-divided into eight phases and further extension. Phase 8, Phase 6 and Phase 5 appear to be the most popular localities to buy property in DHA Karachi, according to the popularity index on Zameen.com. These phases also seem to be popular among those looking to rent out houses or flats in the area.
Overall, Defence scored the third position on the list of most searched areas to buy property in the city. It drew about 10.1% of the total searches on Zameen.com during May 2019.
Bahria Town Karachi
Bahria Town Karachi is a city within itself.
It is easily one of the biggest commercial and housing schemes in the city spanning over 44,000 acres of land. Although most parts of this upscale gated community are still being developed, its modern infrastructure and affordable housing options have made it a top choice among the residents of the busy metropolitan.
A project of Bahria Town Limited, the largest privately-owned real estate development company in the region, Bahria Town Karachi is the brainchild of business mogul Malik Riaz. Similar projects are also underway in different major cities of Pakistan, including Islamabad and Lahore.
The residential community is located just off the Super Highway and has been divided into more than 31 precincts. Precinct 12, Bahria Sports City and Bahria Paradise appear to be the most popular localities to buy property in Bahria Town.
On the other hand, precincts 2, 10 and Bahria Apartments seem to be the most sought after localities among those planning to rent houses and flats in the neighbourhood. Overall, Bahria Town was the most popular area to buy property in Karachi. It received 12.5% of overall searches on the popularity index during May 2019.
Moreover, the Dancing Fountain, Cinegold Plex Cinema and Danzoo Day And Night Zoo in Bahria Town have quickly become popular tourist attractions in Karachi.
Location
Needless to say, location is one of the most important aspects of this entire DHA Karachi vs Bahria Town Karachi debate.
Located near the beach, Defence Karachi is well-connected to the rest of the city via several roads, bridges and underpasses. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the Jinnah International Airport for those living in DHA Karachi. Furthermore, Cantt. Railway Station is located some 22-minute drive from the area.
Meanwhile, Bahria Town is only a 9-minute drive away from Karachi Toll Plaza and is connected to the M9 motorway and Malir Cantt. People living in Bahria Town Karachi also have to take a 45-minute drive to reach the Jinnah International Airport. However, Cantt. Railway Station is located approximately 47 kilometres from the gated community.
Buying Trends
If you are looking to buy real estate, here is an analysis of Bahria Town vs DHA Karachi market trends.
DHA Karachi
Prices of real estate in DHA Karachi are slightly steeper than most areas of the city.
The buying trend of 120 sq yd houses for sale in DHA Karachi starts at PKR 3.1 crore and goes up to PKR 5.5 crore. If you are looking for a bigger place, a 250 sq yd house in the area costs between PKR 4.6 crore and PKR 6.5 crore. Moreover, the price of 500 sq yd houses in Defence ranges from PKR 5 crore to PKR 16 crore.
Meanwhile, the prices of flats for sale in DHA Karachi are also a bit steep compared to other parts in the city.
A 1-bedroom apartment in the area costs somewhere between PKR 38 lakh and PKR 2.8 crore. Whereas, the price of the 2-bed option varies from PKR 45 lakh to PKR 4.5 crore. Furthermore, you can buy a 3-bedroom flat in Defence within the price range of PKR 70 lakh to PKR 7 crore.
DHA Karachi plot prices also vary with each area. However, on average, those looking to invest in this part of the town can buy a 120 sq yd residential plot in Defence between PKR 2 crore and PKR 4 crore. As for 500 sq yd residential plots, their prices vary from PKR 3 crore to PKR 9.5 crore.
Bahria Town Karachi
Here are the buying trends of real estate in Bahria Town Karachi.
If you are looking for accommodation options in the area, 125 sq yd houses are available for as low as PKR 41 lakh and can go up to PKR 1.7 crore. Moreover, 250 sq yd houses for sale in Bahria Town Karachi range between PKR 1 crore and PKR 2.8 crore.
On the other hand, the 2-bedroom flats for sale in the area cost between PKR 13.8 lakh and PKR 1.6 crore. Meanwhile, the price of 3-bed units varies from PKR 45 lakh to PKR 1.6 crore. You can also buy a 4-bedroom apartment in Bahria Town Karachi within the range of PKR 82.6 lakh and PKR 2.3 crore.
As for plots for sale in Bahria Town Karachi, a 250 sq yd residential plot is priced somewhere around PKR 5 lakh to PKR 1.7 crore. However, buying trend of 500 sq yd residential plots in the area begins at PKR 8.5 lakh and goes up to PR 2.5 crore.
Rental Trends
Given their popularity, investment in DHA or Bahria Town appears to be a great option for those looking to buy real estate in Karachi.
Let’s take a look at the rental trends in each area.
DHA Karachi
As for those seeking to rent a property in DHA Karachi, the rent of a 250 sq yd house ranges between PKR 1.3 lakh to PKR 1.8 lakh per month on average. You can rent a 500 sq yd house in the area for PKR 90 thousand to PKR 5 lakh.
Moreover, the monthly rents of 1-bedroom flats in Defence range between PKR 20 thousand to PKR 50 thousand. The rental trend for 2-bed apartments varies from PKR 22 thousand to PKR 80 thousand, depending on the project.
Bahria Town Karachi
Renting property in Bahria Town Karachi also appears to be a popular option among the inhabitants of the city.
If you are looking to rent a house in Bahria Town Karachi, the rental trend of 125 sq yd house varies from PKR 22 thousand to PKR 33 thousand. Meanwhile, a 200 sq yd house in the area will cost you between PKR 25 thousand to PKR 75 thousand on an average.
The monthly rent of a 2-bedroom flat in the housing society starts from PKR 16 thousand. It can go up to PKR 35 thousand or more. On the other hand, living in a 3-bed apartment in Bahria Town costs between PKR 20 thousand to PKR 40 thousand.
Facilities in Bahria Town vs DHA Karachi
Living in DHA Karachi and Bahria Town comes with a lot of perks in terms of facilities and amenities. Let’s take a look at what makes these housing societies two of the most sought after areas for real estate investment in Karachi.
DHA Karachi
Some of the facilities and amenities in DHA Karachi include easy access to public transport, state-of-the-art hospitals, multi-cuisine restaurants, schools of international standards and several shopping centres.
Moreover, those living in DHA Karachi can easily travel to any part of the city via public buses. They can also hail a cab through one of the many ride-hailing services operating in the city.
Defence Housing Authority is approximately 40-minute away from Jinnah International Airport and around 20-minute away from the Cantonment Railway Station. It is also one of the most secure neighbourhoods of the city as DHA Security and Vigilance Directorate works with local police to ensure a peaceful environment.
Although there are a number of commercial areas in DHA housing outlets of almost all international and local brands, the residents can also visit nearby Dolmen Mall Clifton and Forum for shopping. Supermarkets such as Agha’s, Imtiaz, Chase Up and Hyperstar are also located in the vicinity.
DHA Karachi is also home to some of the most beautiful mosques in the city, including the world-famous Tooba Mosque in Phase 2. Referred to as ‘Gol Masjid’ for its unique appearance, it is considered one of the largest mosques in Pakistan.
As for restaurants in DHA Karachi, residents can choose from a variety of dining options and cuisines. People who love traditional Pakistani and Continental food can head over to Do Darya. However, those who enjoy fast food and Chinese cuisine can try out Jucy Lucy and Chop Chop Wok for an authentic experience.
The most popular schools in DHA Karachi include Bay View Academy, Haque Academy, Froebel Education Centre and Beaconhouse School, to name a few. Apart from following both matriculation and A-levels systems, these institutes also offer modern facilities to the students. DA Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed College, DHA Suffah University and Greenwich University are also situated in the area.
Zamzama Park, Nisar Shaheed Park, Sea View Park and Capt. Raja Farhan Shaheed Park are some of the major parks in DHA Karachi. In addition to that, Chunky Monkey Amusement Park in Phase 6 is one of the most popular recreational places for kids. Meanwhile, residents also have quick access to Nueplex Cinema along with a number of sports clubs and sports facilities.
Bahria Town Karachi
Even though Bahria Town is located at a small distance from the city, you can easily find quality schools, shopping centres, hospitals, sports facilities and much more without leaving the gated community.
The most prominent facilities and amenities in Bahria Town include 24/7 security, top-notch educational institutes, markets, well-equipped hospitals, restaurants, cafes and parks among others.0
To ensure a quality lifestyle, this aesthetically pleasing real estate project also provides transportation services for its residents. Not only does the bus service operate within the housing society, but it also offers easy access to areas such as Malir Cantt and Sohrab Goth. Moreover, a comprehensive CCTV surveillance system and well-trained security staff guarantee a crime-free and secure environment.
As far as education is concerned, Bahria Town Karachi has established its own schools and colleges. These educational institutes offer world-class facilities to students in the form of modern classrooms and playgrounds. For those seeking options for higher education, Baqai Medical University in Gadap Town is also located in the vicinity.
People living in Bahria Town Karachi also have their own day and night zoo, a theme park, a carnival area and a cinema. The Mini Formula-1 Track, Dancing Fountain, Dolphin Area, Sheraton Golf and Country Club, Bahria Night Safari and Grand Mosque have also become some of the most famous tourist attractions in Bahria Town.
Furthermore, Pakistan’s largest cricket stadium is also under construction in Bahria Sports City. Once completed, the Grand Gymnasium will also house facilities for other sports including Squash, Badminton, and Tennis.
Whether you love Middle Eastern cuisine or fast food, the restaurants in Bahria Town Karachi offer something to satisfy every palate. Cave Restaurant, Istanbul Grill, Usmania Restaurant and Ridan House of Mandi are some of the best places to enjoy a scrumptious meal in the area.
The mega real estate project also has its own hospital that offers an around the clock emergency room, internationally trained medical staff and technicians among other facilities.
Needless to say, the facilities available in Bahria Town rival those of DHA Karachi. However, depending on your personal preferences, both of these areas are considered the best places to live and invest in the city.
If you are still stuck in the DHA vs Bahria Town debate, head over to Zameen Blog, the best property and lifestyle blog in Pakistan, for more information. Moreover, to learn more about other housing societies in the city, check out our comprehensive area guides for Karachi.
In addition to that, you can send us your comments and feedback on blog@zameen.com.
