Dhaka, April 19 -- Bangladesh's real estate sector, once a key pillar of urban development, is currently experiencing a severe downturn, attributed to political transition, rising construction costs, and policy uncertainty surrounding the Detailed Area Plan (DAP).

The slowdown has not only stifled industry growth but has also dampened the aspirations of the country's middle class, many of whom now view home ownership as increasingly out of reach.

Shahjalal Khan, a retired school headmaster from the Mohammadpur area of Dhaka, had long hoped to purchase a modest flat as a peaceful retreat in retirement. His wife, Rayea Akter, who is nearing retirement herself, shares this long-standing dream. Despite having saved Tk 75 lakh over decades o...