Allocation vs Affidavit: which file should you buy?
Same plot, different paperwork. The price gap is real but small. We explain what changes for you, the transfer, and the resale market.
The short answer
Allocation = original. Affidavit = resold.
Allocation file
Original DHA-issued allocation letter to the first allottee. Clean transfer history. Slight price premium.
Affidavit file
Same plot, but transferred at least once via legal affidavit. Slightly cheaper. Transfer involves more paperwork verification.
Both fully tradable
MFX procurement verifies the chain of paperwork either way before listing. Both can be reserved on the platform.
Same underlying plot
The land, location, size, and DHA registry record are identical. The difference is the paper trail, not the asset.
When each one wins
Pick allocation for simplicity, affidavit for price
Without MFX
Buy an Allocation file when…
- You want the simplest, fastest DHA-office transfer.
- You plan to hold long-term and don't want any chain-of-paperwork risk.
- You're a first-time buyer and want the cleanest possible deal.
- You're paying a premium for peace of mind and don't mind it.
With MFX
Buy an Affidavit file when…
- You want the same plot at a discount of typically 3-7%.
- You're comfortable trusting MFX procurement's chain verification.
- You're optimizing for return over transfer simplicity.
- You're flipping mid-term and the discount compresses your hold cost.
What actually changes
Transfer process side-by-side
Allocation file transfer
DHA office staff verify the original allocation letter, your identity, the seller's identity, and execute a clean transfer to your name. One paper, one chain. Typical timeline once paperwork is in: a few business days.
Affidavit file transfer
DHA office staff verify the most recent affidavit plus every previous affidavit in the chain back to the original allocation. Each affidavit must match the prior holder's identity and have no unresolved claims. Typical timeline: a bit longer because verification has more steps.
Why MFX makes this safer either way
Our procurement team confirms the file with the relevant DHA branch, runs lien checks, runs court-record screening, and documents every check. By the time you reserve, the chain has already been verified. Read how we prevent fraud for the long version.
Resale market
Does the file class affect resale?
Slightly, yes. When you eventually sell, your file is itself either an allocation or an affidavit. If you bought an affidavit, your sale will be an affidavit-to-affidavit transfer for the next buyer.
In practice, the price discount holds across the lifecycle. The absolute price moves with the phase, not with file class. If your phase doubles, your file doubles regardless.
For most overseas investors, the affidavit discount is the better deal. Pay less, get the same plot, hold for the same upside.
Common questions
Is an allocation file 'safer' than an affidavit file?
Both are equally safe to hold. The risk in DHA files is fraud during purchase, not class. A verified affidavit file from a trustworthy source is exactly as safe as a verified allocation file.
What's the typical price difference?
Allocation files usually trade 3-7% above affidavit files for the same plot. Larger phases with active markets show tighter spreads; smaller phases show wider ones.
Can an affidavit file become an allocation again?
No. Once the original allocation has been transferred, the file is in affidavit form for the rest of its life until possession of the actual plot.
Does MFX list both?
Yes. Browse inventory and you'll see file class clearly labeled on every listing. Filter by class on the browse page if you have a preference.
I can't tell which class my current file is. How do I check?
Look at the top of the document. An original DHA allocation letter is on DHA letterhead and addressed to the original allottee. An affidavit file will have legal affidavit pages stapled in front. If unclear, our procurement team can help — email support@mfx.pk.
See both file classes priced fairly
Filter by class on browse, compare benchmarks, and reserve the file that fits your strategy.
Keep reading
What is a DHA file?
Plain-English explainer of files, sizes, and what you actually own.
Read more
How DHA file transfer works
From token to ownership: every step of the actual transfer process.
Read more
How MFX prevents file fraud
Common scams in the DHA file market and how our procurement catches them.
Read more