People have always been drawn to the idea of owning a farmhouse in a peaceful, scenic environment surrounded by greenery. Traditionally, farmhouses were considered a privilege of the elite class, accessible only to high-net-worth individuals. However, in recent years—particularly after the global pandemic—this perception has shifted significantly. Farmhouses are now increasingly seen as viable options for retirement living, second homes, and weekend retreats.
At the same time, Islamabad’s farmhouse developments have gained attention for their potential capital appreciation and rental income, contributing to the growing demand for suburban and semi-rural residential living in the twin cities.
Farmhouse Living in Islamabad: A Comparative Overview
While Islamabad offers a range of farmhouse developments, two of the most sought-after projects include the Agro Farming Scheme and Gulberg Islamabad. Both are located in prime areas and are known for their natural surroundings, accessibility, and planned infrastructure.
A comparative evaluation of such projects is often helpful for buyers seeking clarity before making investment decisions, as each development offers distinct advantages in terms of location, planning, and lifestyle features.
Developers Overview
Agro Farming Scheme Developer
The Agro Farming Scheme is associated with Bahria Town, one of Pakistan’s most recognized real estate development organizations. Established in 1996, the group has played a major role in shaping the country’s modern housing and commercial landscape.
Bahria Town has delivered large-scale projects across Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi, introducing master-planned communities and landmark developments such as large-scale mosques, theme parks, hospitality projects, and golf facilities. The developer has also received multiple international property awards for its contributions to real estate and urban development.
Gulberg Islamabad Developer
Gulberg Islamabad is developed by the Intelligence Bureau Employees Cooperative Housing Society (IBECHS), a long-standing welfare-based housing organization.
IBECHS initially developed housing schemes for its employees and later expanded into larger-scale projects, including Pakistan Town and Gulberg Islamabad. Launched as a major development initiative in 2005, Gulberg Islamabad—also known as IBECHS Phase III—has become one of the notable planned communities in the capital region.
Location Comparison
Agro Farming Scheme Location
The Agro Farming Scheme is located along Angoori Road near the Murree Expressway in Zone IV of Islamabad. The project benefits from its natural surroundings and scenic views of the Murree Hills.
Key access points include:
- Near Angoori Road
- Approximately 10 minutes from Serena Hotel Islamabad
- Around 5 minutes from Bhara Kahu
- Approximately 10 minutes from Zero Point Islamabad
Nearby landmarks and developments include Bahria Golf City, Green Enclave, Chattar Park, and Sheraton Golf & Country Club, among others.
Gulberg Islamabad Location
Gulberg Islamabad is located at the junction of Zone IV and Zone V along the Islamabad Expressway. Its location provides strong connectivity to both Islamabad and Rawalpindi, making it one of the most accessible housing developments in the region.
Key access points include:
- 17 minutes from Zero Point
- 28 minutes from Giga Mall
- 5 minutes from Koral Chowk
- 24 minutes from DHA Phase II
- 45 minutes from Islamabad International Airport
Nearby housing societies include Bahria Town Rawalpindi, PWD Housing Society, Naval Anchorage, Pakistan Town, Korang Town, Media Town, and others.
Legal Status and NOC
Agro Farming Scheme NOC
The Agro Farming Scheme is a CDA-approved development covering approximately 2,489.3 kanals in Zone IV. Its No Objection Certificate (NOC) was issued by the Capital Development Authority on June 10, 2019, confirming its legal status for development.
Gulberg Islamabad NOC
Gulberg Islamabad is also CDA-approved under reference number CDA/PLW-HS (127)/2009/257. Its NOCs were issued for different phases, with Gulberg Residencia approved in 2011 and Gulberg Greens in 2012.
Master Plan Overview
Agro Farming Scheme Master Plan
The Agro Farming Scheme spans approximately 2,489 kanals and has been designed to integrate natural landscapes with planned infrastructure.
Key features of the land-use distribution include residential farmhouses, commercial zones, green areas, public buildings, and road networks. A significant portion of land is dedicated to parks, green belts, and open spaces to preserve the natural environment.
Farmhouse plot sizes include:
- 4 kanal (2444 sq. yd.)
- 4.1 kanal (2480.5 sq. yd.)
- 4.3 kanal (2647 sq. yd.)
- 5 kanal (3025 sq. yd.)
- 5.3 kanal (3241 sq. yd.)
- 5.6 kanal (3436 sq. yd.)
- 6.6 kanal (4027 sq. yd.)
- 6.9 kanal (4175 sq. yd.)
Gulberg Islamabad Master Plan
Gulberg Islamabad spans approximately 42,000 kanals and is divided into three major zones: Gulberg Residencia, Gulberg Greens, and Gulberg Commercial.
Gulberg Residencia covers around 19,390 kanals and consists of multiple residential blocks offering plot sizes ranging from 7 marla to 2 kanal, along with developed housing infrastructure.
Gulberg Greens spans approximately 18,660 kanals and includes farmhouse enclaves such as Jasmine, Rose, and Tulip Enclaves, offering 4, 5, and 10 kanal farmhouse categories.
Gulberg Commercial includes major commercial developments such as malls, business towers, and mixed-use projects, catering to retail, residential, and entertainment needs.
Payment Plans Overview
Agro Farming Scheme Payment Plan
The Agro Farming Scheme offers a 3-year payment plan for 5 kanal farmhouses. Booking starts from approximately 25% down payment, with installment-based options available.
Price range:
| Farmhouse Size | Price Range |
| 5 Kanal | 4.5 Crore – 8.25 Crore |
Gulberg Islamabad Payment Plan
Gulberg Islamabad offers flexible installment plans spread over approximately 33 monthly installments, along with various discount options depending on payment method.
- 50% payment: 3% discount
- Full payment: 10% discount
- Corner plots: additional 15% premium
Installment plans vary based on plot size and block category, including Executive Block and other designated sectors.
Facilities and Amenities
Agro Farming Scheme Amenities
- Green parks and open spaces
- Grand mosque
- Community centre
- Commercial and business hub
- Healthcare and education facilities
- Sports and recreational areas
- Modern road infrastructure
- Utilities including electricity, water, and gas
- Security and emergency services
Gulberg Islamabad Amenities
- Sports and fitness complexes
- Parks and walking tracks
- Educational institutions
- Healthcare centers and pharmacies
- Commercial zones
- Cinemas and entertainment facilities
- Water filtration plants
- CCTV surveillance and security systems
- Wide boulevards and road networks
Conclusion
Both Agro Farming Scheme and Gulberg Islamabad represent distinct approaches to planned residential and farmhouse living in Islamabad. While Agro Farming Scheme emphasizes nature-integrated farmhouse living, Gulberg Islamabad offers a more diversified master-planned urban environment with residential, commercial, and farmhouse segments.
For buyers and investors, both projects present unique opportunities depending on lifestyle preferences, investment goals, and long-term residential needs.
