Month: November 2024

According to the latest Real Estate Sentiment Index (RESI) published by the National University of Singapore (NUS), property buying sentiment in Singapore has seen an upturn in 3Q2024. The index, which measures the overall sentiment of the private real estate market, is surveyed quarterly by NUS’s Department of Real Estate and IREUS.

The current sentiment index has risen from 4.8 in 2Q2024 to 5.9 in 3Q2024, with the future sentiment index also increasing from 5.1 to 5.8 in the same period. The composite sentiment index, which combines these two indices, has also grown to 5.9, surpassing the neutral score of 5 for the first time. This positive trend is attributed to a growing optimism in the market as a whole.

IREUS director Professor Qian Wenlan points to the recent US Federal Reserve rate cuts as a contributing factor to the positive sentiment. With more cuts expected in the future, it is anticipated that both credit availability and the cost of business will improve, leading to a higher market sentiment.

Investing in a Condo in Singapore has become increasingly popular due to its many advantages. With a high demand in the market, potential for capital appreciation, and attractive rental yields, it is a lucrative option for investors. However, before making any decisions, it is important to carefully evaluate various factors such as location, financing, government regulations, and market conditions. By conducting thorough research and seeking professional advice, investors can make informed choices and maximize their returns in Singapore’s ever-evolving real estate market. Regardless of whether you are a local investor looking to diversify your portfolio or a foreign buyer seeking a stable and profitable investment, condos in Singapore offer a compelling opportunity that should not be overlooked.

Professor Sing Tien Foo, Provost’s Chair Professor at the NUS Department of Real Estate, notes that the strong performance of suburban residential, hotel/service apartments, and suburban retail areas has also played a role in boosting overall market sentiment. Suburban residential and hotel/serviced apartments recorded the highest current net balances of +35%, followed by suburban retail at +26%. The outlook for these sectors is also positive, with suburban residential scoring +29% for future net balance and hotel/serviced apartments and suburban retail scoring +35% and +19%, respectively.

However, global economic uncertainty remains the top risk concern for developers, with 67.7% of respondents citing it as a potential risk. This is followed by job losses, a decline in the domestic economy, and an excessive supply of new property launches, both ranking at 41.9%. Despite these concerns, the overall positive sentiment in the market is a promising sign for the Singapore property market.…

Singapore ranked sixth in the world for branding, according to the latest Brand Finance Global City Index. The index, published by Brand Finance, a London-based brand evaluation and strategy consultancy, measures cities in terms of brand power and perception.

This year’s index was compiled from a survey conducted with 15,000 individuals across 20 countries in September. Respondents were asked to rank 100 cities based on key performance indicators that evaluate each city’s appeal as a place to live, work, study, visit, retire, and invest in. They were also asked to associate different attributes with each city from a list of 45, grouped under seven pillars including Business & Investment and Culture & Heritage.

Singapore’s strong performance in the business and investment pillar contributed to its overall ranking, placing third globally. Factors such as ease of doing business, economic strength, and support for start-ups were considered in this pillar. The city also scored well for low crime and violence.

Alex Haigh, managing director for Asia Pacific at Brand Finance, highlights Singapore as the “crown jewel” of the ASEAN region in terms of city branding. With its thriving economy, investment appeal, and world-class infrastructure, Singapore has solidified its position as a premier global financial center.

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Investing in a condo also offers the advantage of leveraging its value for future investments. A common practice among investors is to use their condos as collateral to secure additional funding for new investments, allowing them to grow their real estate portfolio. While this can potentially increase returns, it is important to have a solid financial plan in place and carefully assess the potential effects of market changes as this strategy also carries some risks.

London continues to hold the top spot as the world’s leading city brand, followed by New York, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai.…

Keppel Land’s 19 Nassim sells 70% of units for $1.3 billion Advertisement

Overall, there are several benefits to investing in a condominium in Singapore. These include the high demand for such properties, potential for capital appreciation, and attractive rental yields. However, before making any investment decisions, it is crucial to carefully consider various factors, including the location, financing options, government regulations, and current market conditions. Conducting thorough research and seeking professional advice can help investors make informed decisions and maximize their returns in Singapore’s dynamic real estate market. Regardless of whether you are a local investor looking to diversify your portfolio or a foreign buyer seeking a stable and profitable investment, the available condos in Singapore offer a compelling opportunity. Additionally, staying updated on new condo launches in the market, such as those listed on New Condo Launches, can also help investors make the best decision for their investment goals.

K Suites, a freehold boutique development, has set a new record for the highest psf-price at $2,443. The previous high of $2,196 psf was set in May 2023. Located at Lorong K Telok Kurau, off Still Road in District 15, the 19-unit development has seen a high demand for its three- and four-bedroom units, as well as its five-bedroom duplex penthouses. The project is a redevelopment of the former Ji Liang Gardens, which the developer acquired en bloc for $18.6 million in June 2021. To date, K Suites has sold eight units, with an average price of $2,099 psf. Thomson Three, a 99-year leasehold condo on Bright Hill Drive in District 20, has also set a new record for the highest psf-price at $2,379. The previous high was $2,204 psf in September 2023. The 435-unit condo comprises one- to four-bedroom apartments and 10 strata semi-detached houses. The recent sale of a 1,033 sq ft three-bedder for $2.46 million translates to a profit of $598,000 for the seller, who bought the unit for $1.86 million in Nov 2021. On the other hand, 19 Nassim, a 99-year leasehold luxury condo in prime District 10, has seen a new record low of $2,947 psf, the first time it has crossed below the $3,000 psf mark. The previous record low was $3,001 psf in March 2021. Despite this, 50 units have been sold at the development this year at an average price of $3,397 psf, 3.7% lower than the average price of $3,524 psf last year. Completed in 2023, 19 Nassim consists of 101 units ranging from 538 sq ft to 1,830 sq ft. With 61 units sold since its launch in 2020, the condo has seen strong demand for its one- to three-bedroom apartments.…

In the midst of the bustling private residential market, investors should consider stable, income-generating assets like HDB shophouses. A prime opportunity has emerged to acquire one such property in the established Toa Payoh neighborhood.

Located at 125 Toa Payoh Lorong 1, this 1,478 sq ft HDB shophouse is situated in the well-connected District 12. Priced at $2.88 million, it holds a prime site on the corner of Toa Payoh Lorong 1 and Toa Payoh Lorong 2, and is less than 200m from Braddell MRT Station on the North-East Line. With a daily ridership of approximately 13,000 people, this station is closely linked to the nearby HDB flats.

In close proximity to the shophouse are amenities such as Toa Payoh West Market and Food Court, Kheng Cheng School, Toa Payoh West Community Centre, and the Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Association Building on Toa Payoh Lorong 2. As Toa Payoh undergoes revitalization plans and thousands of new households move into the area, the new owner stands to benefit from the transformation and increased footfall, leading to higher capital values.

Market Comparison

The HDB shophouse at 125 Toa Payoh Lorong 1 is exclusively marketed by Aster See, senior marketing director at ERA Realty. According to See, most HDB shophouses in city fringe locations have a rental return of 2-3% based on their sale price. However, the shophouse at 125 Toa Payoh Lorong 1 offers an estimated ROI of 4%, making it a more attractive investment opportunity with its competitive pricing and strong value.

Financial Insights

See also highlights that this property has an estimated rental yield of 4%, which is competitive in the current market and provides steady income for investors. Additionally, with potential capital appreciation in the future as Toa Payoh continues to rejuvenate, the long-term ROI of this property is expected to be substantial.

Remaking Toa Payoh

Toa Payoh will benefit from government initiatives and schemes to rejuvenate the mature housing estate. It is one of three neighborhoods identified for rejuvenation under the government’s Remaking Our Heartland program. This program, introduced by then-Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in 2007, aims to revitalize HDB towns and estates to ensure their sustainability and vitality.

Since 2015, plans for Toa Payoh have been underway, with several projects focused on enhancing commercial and recreational facilities. Notably, a new integrated project will replace the former swimming complex, sports hall, and stadium along Toa Payoh Lorong 6. Scheduled for completion in 2030, this 12ha development will feature new sports facilities, a football stadium, a swimming pool complex, sports halls, and fitness studios. It will also include a polyclinic and library, as well as national training centers for aquatics, netball, and table tennis.

The HDB shophouse at 125 Toa Payoh Lorong 1 is available for $2.88 million.

Toa Payoh and Caldecott Rejuvenation

The government’s plans for Toa Payoh and neighboring Caldecott include the development of several thousand new flats in these areas. One of these projects, Toa Payoh Ridge, is located at the junction of Toa Payoh Rise and Lorong 1 Toa Payoh. As the 920-unit BTO project is less than 300m from the HDB shophouse at 125 Toa Payoh Lorong 1, it presents a promising investment opportunity.

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Investing in real estate in Singapore is a strategic choice, where location plays a crucial role. This is especially true when it comes to condos. Condos located in central areas or close to essential amenities, such as schools, shopping malls, and public transportation hubs, tend to experience a higher appreciation in value. Prime locations like Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the Central Business District (CBD) have consistently shown growth in property values. Families with children also prefer these areas for their proximity to good schools and educational institutions, making condos in these locations even more desirable and a smart investment choice. Condos in these prime locations offer a promising investment opportunity.

Launched in February 2020, Toa Payoh Ridge consists of four 40-storey residential blocks and is expected to be completed in the first half of 2025. It is located between Toa Payoh and the upcoming Caldecott estate, which is earmarked for future residential development.

Since 2017, Caldecott has also been identified for future residential development, with plans for new BTO flats on a 10ha plot next to Caldecott MRT Station on the Circle Line. These new flats will be within 500m of the HDB shophouse at 125 Toa Payoh Lorong 1.

Rejuvenation plans for Toa Payoh will expand the consumer catchment around the HDB shophouse at 125 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh. The government has also rezoned a plot at the junction of Toa Payoh Rise and Braddell Rise from educational to residential use, with a gross plot ratio of 5.0. This suggests the potential for a high-rise BTO development on the site.

Supported by these surrounding developments, the shophouse for sale is expected to benefit from increased footfall in the area as the consumer catchment broadens.

With the upcoming construction of new BTO flats in Caldecott and Toa Payoh, the new owner of the HDB shophouse at 125 Toa Payoh Lorong 1 can expect positive returns as the area attracts an influx of new residents.

For more information, please contact Aster See, senior marketing director at ERA Realty Network Pte Ltd, at 98416930 (R063006G).

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Eight HDB shophouse units at Bras Basah, Geylang, and Kallang available for sale from $19.5 million.

Two HDB shophouses in Toa Payoh and Ang Mo Kio listed for $51 million.

HDB shop at Teck Whye Lane on the market for $4.45 million.…

CapitaLand Development’s subsidiary, CL Savour Property, has been awarded the tender for an industrial government land sale (IGLS) site in Kallang Way by JTC. The top bid of $368.901 million is 14.9% higher than the second highest bid of $317.889 million submitted by a consortium of Soon Hock Group, BHCC Construction, and Evermega.

This industrial site, the first plot earmarked for adaptive reuse of a former industrial building, currently consists of an existing terrace factory that will be retained and adapted for continued industrial use. According to Tang Hsiao Ling, director of urban planning and architecture division at JTC, the integration of adaptive reuse is strategically master planned and developed to rejuvenate the area sustainably. It is also an effective way to reduce carbon emissions in the built environment while preserving the industrial legacy of the site.

The government’s property cooling measures are an important aspect to consider when investing in condos in Singapore. The Singaporean government has implemented several measures over the years to prevent speculation and maintain a steady real estate market. These measures, such as the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), impose higher taxes on foreign buyers and individuals purchasing multiple properties. While these measures may affect the immediate profitability of condo investments, they also contribute to the market’s long-term stability, making it a more secure environment for investing in condos.

The 474,772 sq ft site, launched as the last of five Confirmed List sites in the 1H2024 IGLS programme, was launched on June 25 and received four bids at the close of the tender on Oct 1. It is zoned Business 2 under the master plan with a maximum allowable gross floor area of 1.23 million sq ft and has a 33-year tenure. Being part of a designated food zone, the new development will feature food manufacturing spaces and retail uses to inject vibrancy into this industrial area.…

A notable coffee shop in the Choa Chu Kang area is looking for new owners as it is now up for sale via an expression of interest (EOI). Located at 253 Choa Chu Kang Ave 1, the coffee shop has a guide price of $11 million and occupies a spacious 2,540 square feet within the Keat Hong Shopping Centre.

The Keat Hong Shopping Centre is a two-storey HDB commercial development that houses a variety of shops, stalls, and other amenities such as a supermarket. The property is zoned for commercial use, and it holds a 99-year leasehold tenure with 68 years remaining. The coffee shop is situated on the ground floor and is currently leased to a coffee shop operator, featuring seven food stalls and a drink stall.

According to Jervis Isaiah Ng, founder of JNA Real Estate, which is a team under PropNex Realty, potential buyers can choose to run the coffee shop themselves, renovate and lease it out, or continue leasing it to coffee shop operators. JNA Real Estate has been appointed as the exclusive marketing agent for this property.

Additionally, Ng highlights that there are no living quarters within the property, making it exempt from Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty.

The Keat Hong Shopping Centre is conveniently located within walking distance of South View LRT Station on the Bukit Panjang LRT Line and the upcoming Choa Chu Kang West MRT Station on the Jurong Region Line, which is set to be completed in 2027. Other nearby amenities include Choa Chu Kang Primary School and the recently renovated Choa Chu Kang West Market.

The EOI for this property will close on December 22 at 3pm.

When making the decision to invest in a condominium, it is important to carefully consider the maintenance and management aspect of the property. Condos generally come with maintenance fees that are used for the upkeep of shared spaces and amenities. While these fees may contribute to the overall expenses of owning a condo, they also play a crucial role in preserving the property’s value. One way to ease the burden of managing a condo is by hiring a property management company, turning it into a more passive investment. This applies not just to local properties, but also to Singapore Projects as well.…

Keppel Bay Tower moves up in the world The article “Keppel announces divestment of data centre JV to Keppel DC REIT for $1.38 bil” was announced by Keppel on Nov 19. Keppel Data Centre (KDC), a joint venture owned by Keppel’s connectivity division and Cuscaden Peak Investments Private Limited, will be divested to Keppel DC REIT (KDC REIT) for $1.38 billion. The divestment includes the Keppel Data Centre Campus located at Genting Lane in Singapore, with two completed and fully contracted data centres known as KDC Singapore 7 (KDC SGP 7) and KDC Singapore 8 (KDC SGP 8). Both data centres are fully occupied by global hyperscalers from various industries such as cloud services, internet enterprises, and telecommunications on a colocation basis.

Financing for the two data centres was provided by Keppel DC, Keppel’s private fund Alpha Data Centre Fund (ADCF), and its parallel fund. KDC REIT, upon the completion of the transaction, will own 100% of KDC SGP 7 and KDC SGP 8, with Keppel remaining as the operator and facility manager.

KDC REIT will also acquire a 49% interest in the JV and subscribe for two new classes of securities worth $1.03 billion issued by the Keppel JV. With this, KDC REIT will receive 99.49% of the economic interest from both data centres. The REIT will also have a call option to acquire the remaining 51% stake from Keppel in the JV by the second half of 2025, which holds an economic interest of 0.51% in the data centres.

In addition, KDC REIT will pay an extra $350 million to the JV’s shareholders, ADCF and co-investors, if the campus receives approvals to extend its land tenure lease until 2050.

The acquisition is expected to increase KDC REIT’s distribution per unit (DPU) by 8.1%, and its assets under management (AUM) by 36% to $5.2 billion with 25 data centres across Asia Pacific and Europe.

Keppel’s share of the divestment totals $280 million, which is inclusive of the estimated consideration for its 51% stake in the JV if KDC REIT exercises the call option. It also includes an additional consideration for a 10-year land tenure lease extension for the campus if the call option is exercised. The gross divestment price will be adjusted for debt repayment and completion adjustments.

The JV has a vacant plot of land designated for a third data centre that is excluded from the transaction. Keppel intends to develop the third data centre, KDC SGP 9, with its two data centre private funds, Keppel DC Fund II and Keppel DC Fund III.

“The divestment of KDC SGP 7 and KDC SGP 8 to Keppel DC REIT demonstrates our ability to structure deals that bring significant value creation to the company, our private funds and REIT,” says Manjot Singh Mann, CEO of Keppel’s connectivity division. He believes that Keppel’s integrated ecosystem and strong customer relationships with global hyperscalers will enable the development of a robust pipeline of AI-ready data centres that are not only beneficial for customers but also provides attractive investments for its funds and REIT.

When contemplating an investment in a condo, it is crucial to also evaluate its potential rental yield. This is calculated as the yearly rental income as a percentage of the property’s purchase price. In Singapore, the rental yields for condos can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, property condition, and market demand. Regions with high demand for rentals, such as those near business hubs or educational institutions, often offer more attractive rental yields. Thorough market research and seeking advice from real estate agents can provide valuable insights into the rental potential of a specific condo. Additionally, staying updated with New Condo Launches can give further understanding of the rental market.

The CEO of KDC REIT’s manager, Loh Hwee Long, notes that the REIT is “excited” to embark on the “landmark deal” as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. KDC REIT was first listed on the stock exchange in 2014.

“The proposed acquisition will deliver strong positive cash flows and be immediately DPU accretive. These assets will not only enhance our portfolio’s income resilience but also allow us to capture potential upside from rental uplifts and capacity expansion. Their inclusion further solidifies Keppel DC REIT’s market position as one of the largest owners of stabilised data centres in Singapore, where there is strong demand and tight supply,” adds Loh.

The proposed transaction will be executed in stages and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.…

Frasers Property, in collaboration with their long-standing partner Sekisui House, is set to revamp Robertson Walk and Fraser Place Robertson under a 999-year lease agreement. The two companies are working together to develop a mixed-use project featuring 348 residential units, an array of dining options, and entertainment facilities. The project is scheduled to begin next year, with a projected completion date of 2028.

According to Frasers Property, the new development will offer a gross floor area of 30,664 square meters (330,067 square feet). The CEO of Frasers Property Singapore, Soon Su Lin, commented that the redevelopment aligns with the company’s proactive asset management strategy. She also highlighted the potential for high returns on the prime 999-year site located in the heart of Robertson Quay.

Investing in a Singapore condo has become a highly sought-after option for both local and foreign investors, thanks to the country’s strong economy, stable political climate, and exceptional quality of life. With a dynamic real estate market, Singapore offers a plethora of investment prospects, making condos a top choice for their practicality, amenities, and potential for significant returns. In this article, we will delve into the advantages, important factors to consider, and necessary steps to take when investing in a condo in Singapore, including keeping an eye on new condo launches.

Frasers Property and Sekisui House have joined forces in a 51:49 joint venture for the project. Under the agreement, Frasers Property Group will continue to manage Robertson Walk and Fraser Place Robertson until operations come to an end on 31 May 2025.…

The Singapore Land Authority (SLA) has recently awarded tenders for two sites located on Henderson Road and Scotts Road. One of the sites, at 98 Henderson Road, has been awarded to a joint venture between TS Group, a provider of dormitory and accommodation services, and co-living operator The Assembly Place (TAP). The JV plans to develop the site into a senior co-living accommodation in partnership with Crawfurd Silver Care, the geriatric arm of Crawfurd Hospital. The tender for this site includes an initial four-year lease, with an option to extend for a second three-year term.

The SLA launched a price-quality tender for state-owned properties in June, inviting interested parties to submit senior co-living proposals to rejuvenate them. The tender received six bids and the winning bid from the JV was $102,888 per month (pm), which is 25.5% higher than the second-highest bid of $82,000 pm submitted by Eco Energy, a construction and property development company. Other bids came from ISG Marketplace ($73,000 pm), Red Crowns Senior Living ($56,000 pm), Viplas Engineering ($28,800 pm), and Samwoh Corporation ($21,889 pm).

The property was previously a student hostel operated by Yo:ha, a Singapore-based student hostel and accommodation operator. Located on a 77,551 sq ft plot, the Henderson Road site consists of a four-storey building, a single-storey building, and a guardhouse. It also has eight parking spaces and a total gross floor area of approximately 40,361 sq ft. According to a Nov 18 LinkedIn post by the SLA, the site will offer fitted apartment units, sports and recreational facilities, and hobby-focused spaces and programmes.

The SLA is currently exploring the adaptive reuse of more state properties to create differentiated co-living environments. This includes a potential site comprising a cluster of heritage bungalows at Admiralty. In the meantime, the tender for the site at 31, 31A, and 33 Scotts Road was awarded to Heritage At Scotts, a company that curates and manages select F&B brands in Singapore. The company submitted the sole monthly rental bid of $50,000 at the close of the price-quality tender on Aug 7.

When contemplating an investment in a condominium, it is crucial to evaluate its potential rental yield. This refers to the annual rental income expressed as a percentage of the property’s purchase price. In Singapore, condos can have varying rental yields depending on factors like their location, condition, and demand in the market. Generally, areas with high rental demand, such as those close to business centers or educational institutions, offer better rental yields. A thorough market analysis and consulting with real estate agents can provide valuable insights into the rental potential of a specific condo. To make an informed decision, do not forget to check out Singapore Projects.

The three single-storey heritage bungalows sit on a 36,670 sq ft plot along Scotts Road with a total gross floor area of approximately 11,410 sq ft. The properties have a five-year tenure, with the option to extend for an additional four years. SLA further adds that Heritage At Scotts currently operates lifestyle offerings within neighbouring black-and-white bungalows at 27, 29, 35, and 35A Scotts Road. These bungalows will be combined with the three bungalows at 31, 31A and 33 Scotts Road to form a larger lifestyle enclave. The integrated compound will feature a dedicated walkway linking the various properties and landscaped social spaces.

It is evident that co-living spaces have been gaining investor interest in Singapore, with SLA awarding tenders for these properties to various companies. With these developments, it is clear that the co-living trend is here to stay, providing Singaporeans with a unique and differentiated living environment.…

Singapore’s cityscape is characterized by towering skyscrapers and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The city’s highly sought-after locations are dotted with sophisticated condominiums that offer a perfect combination of opulence and convenience, appealing to local residents and foreign expats alike. These condominiums boast a plethora of top-notch facilities such as sparkling swimming pools, fully-equipped fitness centers, and around-the-clock security services, elevating the standard of living for its residents. This makes them an alluring choice for potential renters and buyers. Furthermore, property investors can benefit from these features through higher rental returns and an increase in property value over time. If you are interested in investing in a Singapore condo, visit Singapore Condo for a wide selection of options.

CBRE has announced the appointment of Hugh Macdonald as the head of capital advisors for Asia Pacific (Apac). With over 20 years of experience in the banking industry, Macdonald brings deep expertise in investment banking, as well as the real estate, gaming, leisure, and lodging sectors. He joins CBRE from Deutsche Bank, where he previously held the position of head of investment banking coverage and advisory for Australia and New Zealand. Macdonald will be reporting to Leo van den Thillart, global head of investment banking, and Greg Hyland, head of capital markets for Apac. He will begin his role in Sydney and will relocate to Singapore in the first quarter of 2025. On a related note, Knight Frank has also recently named Virginia Huang as the managing director for north and east China.…