What Is an EOI in Real Estate? And Why New Projects Start With It
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By Sakan Group September 10, 2026 2 min read

What Is an EOI in Real Estate? And Why New Projects Start With It

If you have seen a new project advertised with “Collecting EOI” and wondered what that means — this guide is for you, from a developer that actually uses the system.

What is an EOI?

EOI stands for Expression of Interest: a seriousness deposit paid before a project’s official launch that registers you on the early-interest list. It is neither the unit price nor its down payment — it is your early-entry ticket before the project opens to the public.

What does an EOI holder get?

  • Selection priority: on launch day, EOI holders choose their units first. In limited villa communities, early choice genuinely matters for plot and view.
  • Pre-launch terms: this phase usually carries the best conditions the project will ever offer.
  • Start-of-curve pricing: pre-launch buyers enter at opening prices.

EOI vs down payment

EOI Down payment
When Before the official launch At contract, on a specific unit
Tied to a unit? No — general priority Yes — a specific unit and price
Size Relatively small seriousness amount A percentage of the unit price (e.g. 10%)
Fate Usually deducted from the unit price at contract — ask about refund terms Part of the unit price

3 questions to ask before paying any EOI

  1. Is it deducted from the unit, or refunded if I change my mind? Get it in writing.
  2. Who is the developer, and what is their record? An EOI with a developer that has delivered before is a different thing entirely.
  3. Is the project licensed? Serious developers license before selling.

A live example: Moon Hills 6

We are currently in the pre-launch phase of Moon Hills 6 — our newest phase in Green October — collecting EOIs now, with a pre-launch offer of 10% down, 10% discount and 10-year installments. Villas only, licensed before sales like every phase before it.

For Moon Hills 6 EOI details and terms: Hotline 15571 · WhatsApp +20 108 095 4274.

Source: Sakan Group Developments editorial team