Month: December 2024

When considering investing in a condo in Singapore, one must take into account the government’s property cooling measures. These measures have been put in place to maintain a stable and secure real estate market, and have been implemented over the years to discourage speculative buying. One of these measures is the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which imposes higher taxes on foreign buyers as well as those purchasing multiple properties. While these policies may affect the short-term profitability of a Singapore Condo, they ultimately contribute to the overall stability of the market, creating a safe and reliable investment environment. Thus, it is essential to consider these government measures when contemplating a condo investment in Singapore in order to make a well-informed decision.

November 2024 saw a surge in new launch sales, with many of the top-selling projects located in the Rest of Central Region and Outside Central Region. These areas saw strong demand from upgraders, propelled by a robust HDB resale market. According to Mark Yip, CEO of Huttons Asia, three out of the top 10 best-selling projects of 2024 were launched in November.Emerald of Katong emerged as the top-selling project of the year, with 99% of its 846 units sold in just two days. The 99-year leasehold development is now almost completely sold out, with only six units available as of Dec 17.The Chuan Park, with its 916 units, came in second place, selling 696 units (76%) within a day of its launch in November. The project is now 79% sold out, thanks to its strategic location in a neighbourhood that has not seen any new private condo launches since 2010.In third place is the 533-unit Lentor Mansion, which achieved 75% sales during its launch weekend in March. Nine months later, the project has sold 92% of its units. The 552-unit Nava Grove ranks fourth, with a 65% take-up rate since its mid-November launch. The project is now almost 70% sold out.Other best-selling projects include Norwood Grand, Hillhaven, Kassia on Flora Drive, Lentoria, Sora, and Meyer Blue. In total, four projects launched in 2023 saw significant sales momentum in the second half of 2024, with over 200 units sold each. These projects included The Continuum, Tembusu Grand, Hillock Green, and Pinetree Hill, which all saw an increase in their sales following the launch of new developments in their neighbourhoods. 2024 was a strong year for new launch sales, with November being a particularly successful month for projects in the RCR and OCR regions. According to Mark Yip, CEO of Huttons Asia, three out of the top 10 best-selling projects of the year were launched in November.Emerald of Katong, a 846-unit development that offers a 99-year lease, was the top-selling project of the year, with 99% of its units sold in just 48 hours. As of December 17, there are only six units left available for purchase.Search for the most recent New Launches to learn about the transaction prices and available units.The 916-unit Chuan Park took second place, selling 76% of its units in just one day during its November launch. As of December 17, the project has reached 79% in sales. This success can be attributed to the lack of new private condo launches in the neighbourhood since 2010.Next on the list is Lentor Mansion, a 533-unit development that achieved a 75% sales rate in its March launch weekend. After nine months, the project has sold 92% of its units. The 552-unit Nava Grove follows in fourth place, with a 65% take-up rate since its mid-November launch. As of December 17, the project has reached nearly 70% in sales.The remaining six projects on the list are Norwood Grand, Hillhaven, Kassia on Flora Drive, Lentoria, Sora, and Meyer Blue. These developments have all seen strong sales, with the least successful selling 58% of its units in private sales.Overall, four projects launched in 2023 have seen significant sales momentum in the second half of 2024, with over 200 units sold each. These projects are The Continuum, Tembusu Grand, Hillock Green, and Pinetree Hill. The Continuum saw a surge in sales after the launch of Emerald of Katong, selling a total of 233 units in 2024 and reaching a cumulative sales rate of 66%. Similarly, Tembusu Grand saw a boost in sales following the nearby launch of Emerald of Katong, with 204 units sold post-July. The project is now 91% sold. Hillock Green, located in Lentor Hills Estate, sold 217 units in 2024, bringing its cumulative sales to 359 (76%). Lastly, the 520-unit Pinetree Hill saw an increase in sales after the second phase of units was released in September, with 208 units sold – 72% of the project’s total sales. The launch of nearby projects such as Nava Grove also contributed to its success.…

As we approach 2025, Singapore’s built environment is heading towards a period of significant change. The facilities management (FM) sector is facing pressure to adapt to new regulatory requirements, cost constraints, and technological advancements. Three key factors will shape the future of FM and help improve its sustainability: the mandatory energy improvement regime, the impact of rising temperatures on energy costs, and the growing trend of adaptive reuse in construction.

The Mandatory Energy Improvement regime, set to begin in the third quarter of 2025, will require existing energy-intensive buildings to undergo energy audits and implement energy-efficient measures. This applies to commercial, healthcare, institutional, civic, community, and educational buildings with a gross floor area of over 5,000 sq m. These buildings must reduce their energy usage intensity by 10% from pre-energy audit levels, which is an achievable goal with the right strategies.

Asset owners are encouraged to take a long-term approach to investing in energy-efficient systems. The energy audits will provide valuable data on energy consumption patterns, identify areas for improvement, and guide asset owners in extending the lifespan of their assets, reducing operating costs over time, and contributing to a more sustainable built environment. Building owners can also access government grants to help cover the costs of energy efficiency upgrades.

In 2021, Temasek Polytechnic became Singapore’s first smart campus by implementing a range of digital solutions to improve campus operations. Their experience offers valuable insights into the future of smart and sustainable facilities management. These solutions include digitizing facility bookings, automating repair and maintenance work orders, and implementing crowd management and temperature control measures. All of this data is collected and visualized at a central control center on campus, allowing for better decision-making to keep the building’s operational systems efficient and minimize its carbon footprint.

Climate disclosure obligations for listed and large non-listed companies with revenues of at least $1 billion and total assets of at least $500 million will be another driving force for energy efficiency. These obligations will be in effect by 2027 and will encourage companies to disclose their impact on the environment. Rising temperatures and energy costs will also push for more investments in predictive technologies. Air conditioning and mechanical ventilation (ACMV) systems are already major contributors to operational costs, making up around 60% of total energy expenses in many buildings. By optimizing energy systems and implementing energy-efficient solutions, such as energy recovery systems and thermal energy storage, building owners can mitigate the impact of rising energy costs.

Extreme weather risks, such as flooding and urban heat, pose a threat to critical infrastructure in cities and precincts. These systems are crucial to keeping the areas running smoothly, which is why it’s essential to incorporate a clear understanding of climate change risks into building operations. By leveraging advances in web-based geospatial IT, building owners and city planners can identify flood-prone areas or highly exposed spaces and develop a comprehensive operational plan to predict extreme weather events and mitigate the risk of equipment failure and downtime. Additionally, optimizing chiller operations to match changing weather conditions can reduce energy waste and costs.

The increasing construction costs in Singapore have prompted a shift towards adaptive reuse, with the rate of redevelopment accelerating over the past five years. Surbana Jurong (SJ) estimates that mechanical and electrical costs have increased by approximately 30% compared to pre-Covid levels. This can be attributed to a 77% increase in logistic shipping costs, a 9% increase in labor costs, and a shortage of mechanical and electrical (M&E) contractors, as well as material price increases, such as copper (15%). As a result, there has been a greater push for smart design and engineering practices, including collaborative common data environments to benchmark construction and operational costs.

Adaptive reuse – repurposing old buildings for new functions – is becoming a more popular response to rising costs. Proptech platforms, such as Podium, are being used to support integrated digital delivery, allowing real estate developers and contractors to gain real-time insights into key performance indicators, such as time, cost, quality, and safety. By consolidating data from multiple sources, stakeholders across the various stages of the building cycle can access valuable information on design, civil and structural engineering plans, construction materials, and components to drive sustainable building practices. By retaining structural elements during adaptive reuse, such as columns, beams, and slabs, material, time, and labor can be saved.

Investing in real estate requires careful consideration, and location is a key factor to keep in mind, especially in Singapore. Condominiums located in central areas or near important conveniences like schools, shopping centers, and public transportation hubs typically experience higher appreciation in value over time. Prime locations in Singapore, such as Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the Central Business District (CBD), have consistently shown an upward trend in property values. The proximity to reputable schools and educational institutions also adds to the appeal of condos in these areas, making them a highly sought-after investment option for families. Condo in these locations is a wise choice for those looking to capitalize on the city’s growth and development.

Post-construction, Podium can integrate with other operational platforms to track building performance metrics, such as energy, waste, water, indoor air quality, and occupancy trends, to drive operational carbon reduction goals. Utility costs for ACMV chiller plants can quickly spiral post-construction, making up around 60% of total operational expenditures. Smart buildings help mitigate additional cost pressures by maximizing the life cycle of capital-expenditure-heavy equipment, such as ACMVs, lifts, and air handling units. This is done through a data-driven, long-term life cycle approach that prioritizes energy savings to offset the energy tariffs from the initial investment in these assets. With access to detailed data, building owners can identify the best options for refurbishment, replacement, or retrofitting to optimize equipment efficiency and achieve compliance with local and international regulations and sustainable financing requirements.

Sensors can monitor and track the performance of each component in a piece of equipment, allowing for predictive maintenance and reducing downtime. For example, sensors can analyze vibrations in chiller equipment, which can reveal any wear or impending failure. Advanced thermography can detect abnormal temperatures or heat buildup in the system. Smart monitoring systems powered by AI can also track various components of a building’s M&E system using sensors, providing granular detail on each part’s performance and helping asset owners make informed decisions on replacements or retrofits.

In conclusion, the facilities management sector in Singapore is set for transformation as we approach 2025. By embracing digitalization, data analytics, and sustainable practices, the sector can drive sustainability, reduce costs, and ensure long-term operational success. Mandatory energy improvement regimes, rising temperatures, and the trend of adaptive reuse will be the key drivers of this change. As the built environment continues to evolve, it’s essential to stay ahead of these trends and proactively adapt to new challenges and opportunities.…

The Meyerise, a freehold condominium, has set a new price record of $2,771 psf due to the recent sale of a 1,270 sq ft unit. The previous record was set back in October 2019 when a 1,819 sq ft unit was sold for $2,764 psf. The new record is just a slight increase of 0.25% compared to the previous record. The project, completed in 2015, is a 239-unit development with two- and three-bedroom units, ranging from 872 sq ft to 1,313 sq ft, four-bedroom units between 1,819 sq ft and 2,056 sq ft, and a 5,490 sq ft penthouse. Other recent high-priced units were sold at The Imperial and Sky Vue at $2,624 psf and $2,505 psf respectively. The Imperial, located at Jalan Rumbia, is a 187-unit freehold condominium in District 9 while Sky Vue is located at Bishan Street 15 with 694 units, completed in 2016.

When making a decision to invest in a condo, one must also carefully consider the maintenance and management of the property. Condos typically require maintenance fees, which are used for the upkeep of shared spaces and amenities. Although these fees may increase the overall cost of ownership, they also guarantee that the condo will be well-maintained and its value will be preserved. To make the investment more passive, investors can enlist the help of a property management company to handle the day-to-day management of their condo.…

A six-bedroom penthouse at JadeScape has recently been sold for a record-breaking price, making it the most profitable condo resale transaction during the week of December 3 to December 10. The unit, which is located on the 23rd floor and spans 4,230 square feet, was sold for $10.15 million, translating to $2,399 per square foot on December 9.

The seller had originally purchased the unit from the developer in December 2019 for $5.8 million, or $1,371 per square foot. This means that the seller has made a profit of $4.35 million after owning the unit for just five years, which equates to a remarkable capital gain of 75% or an annualised profit of 15%. This is the largest gain ever made on a unit at JadeScape, surpassing the previous top gain of $1.14 million from the sale of a 2,099 square foot, five-bedroom unit on the 10th floor on August 12. The seller had bought the unit from the developer in September 2019 for $3.28 million, or $1,562 per square foot.

JadeScape is a 99-year leasehold condo located at the junction of Marymount Road and Shunfu Road in District 20. Completed in 2022, the development boasts 1,206 units spread across seven residential towers, offering one- to five-bedroom apartments that range from 527 square feet to 2,099 square feet. There are also two exclusive penthouses measuring 4,230 square feet each. The condo is conveniently situated within walking distance of Marymount MRT Station on the Circle Line.

Throughout this year, there have been 72 other resale transactions at JadeScape, with units selling for prices ranging from $1,955 per square foot to $2,420 per square foot. All of these deals have been profitable, with sellers netting gains that range from $55,000 to $1.15 million.

The second most profitable resale deal during the same week was the sale of a 1,410 square foot, three-bedroom unit at The Imperial for $3.7 million, which translates to $2,624 per square foot, on December 5. The seller had purchased the unit from the developer for $1.3 million, or $925 per square foot, in September 2004. This means that the seller has made a profit of $2.4 million, a 184% gain, after holding onto the unit for 20 years. This deal is the fifth most profitable resale transaction at The Imperial, with the record gain belonging to a four-bedroom unit measuring 3,918 square feet that sold for $7.64 million, or $1,950 per square foot, in June 2007. The seller had bought the unit for $3.99 million, or $1,018 per square foot, in March 2006, making a gain of $3.65 million.

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The cityscape of Singapore is characterized by towering skyscrapers and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Condominiums, strategically situated in desirable locations, offer a fusion of opulence and convenience that entices both locals and foreigners. These properties boast an array of facilities, including swimming pools, fitness centers, and round-the-clock security, which elevate the standard of living and make them highly sought after by prospective tenants and purchasers. For savvy investors, these amenities result in greater rental returns and appreciation of real estate values in the long run. Additionally, the latest addition of Singapore Projects adds to the appeal of these revamped spaces.

The Imperial is a freehold condo located on Jalan Rumbia, near Fort Canning Park in District 9. Completed in 2006, the development comprises 187 units spread across five blocks, offering two-, three-, and four-bedroom units that range from 980 square feet to 3,918 square feet. It is within walking distance of Fort Canning MRT Station on the Downtown Line, as well as Dhoby Ghaut MRT Interchange, which serves the North-South, North-East, and Circle Lines.

On the other hand, the sale of a one-bedroom unit at The Montana was the least profitable condo resale deal during the same week. The 635 square foot unit was sold for $1.02 million, or $1,603 per square foot, on December 6. The unit had previously changed hands in July 2014 for $1.18 million, or $1,863 per square foot, which means that the seller has made a loss of approximately $165,000 on the transaction. This is also the third-biggest loss ever made on a unit at The Montana, with the largest loss recorded for the sale of a three-bedroom unit spanning 1,109 square feet that was sold for $1 million, or $902 per square foot, in May 2003. The seller had bought the unit from the developer in December 1999 for $1.35 million, or $1,215 per square foot, resulting in a loss of approximately $347,000.

The Montana is a freehold condo located on Jalan Mutiara, just off River Valley Road in District 10. Completed in 2002, the development comprises 108 units housed in a 12-storey tower, offering one- to four-bedroom units that range from 549 square feet to 2,659 square feet. Out of the four other resale transactions at The Montana this year, all of them have been profitable, with the units selling for prices between $1,930 per square foot to $2,371 per square foot, making gains ranging from $80,000 to $525,000.…

Singapore-based real estate investment trust (REIT) CapitaLand Ascendas REIT (CLAR) has announced its intention to acquire DHL Indianapolis Logistics Center, a Class A logistics property, from Exel Inc. d/b/a DHL Supply Chain (DHL USA) for $150.3 million. This purchase represents a 4.1% discount to the independent market valuation of the property as of Jan 1, 2025. After including transaction-related fees and expenses of $1.7 million, and an acquisition fee of $1.5 million paid to the manager, the total cost of the acquisition will be $153.4 million. To finance this purchase, the manager plans to use a combination of internal resources, divestment proceeds, and/or existing debt facilities, according to a press release issued on December 17th.

Under the terms of the deal, DHL USA will enter into a long-term leaseback agreement for the property’s entire gross floor area until December 2035, with options to renew for two additional five-year terms. This long lease term, with a built-in rent escalation of 3.5% per annum, is expected to provide income stability and strengthen the resilience of CLAR’s portfolio. With a weighted average lease to expiry (WALE) of approximately 11 years, the fully occupied property will also increase CLAR’s US portfolio WALE from 4.2 years to 4.7 years on a pro forma basis.

When it comes to investing in a condo, financing is a crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked, especially in Singapore. The country offers a variety of mortgage options, but it is essential for investors to have a thorough understanding of the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) framework. This framework sets a limit on the amount of loan that a borrower can take based on their income and existing debt obligations. To make well-informed decisions about financing, it is crucial for investors to seek guidance from financial advisors or mortgage brokers who have a deep understanding of the TDSR and can help navigate the process. This not only helps prevent investors from over-leveraging, but also ensures a more successful investment in Singapore Projects. It is important to work with professionals who have knowledge and experience in dealing with the TDSR framework, to ensure a wise investment decision in the Singapore Projects.

The first-year net property income (NPI) yield of the proposed acquisition stands at around 7.6% pre-transaction costs and 7.4% post-transaction costs. As a result, it is expected to have a positive impact on the distribution per unit (DPU) for the financial year ended Dec 31, 2023, with an estimated improvement of approximately 0.019 Singapore cents, or a DPU accretion of 0.1%, assuming the acquisition was completed on Jan 1, 2023.

Located in Whiteland, a submarket in southeast Indianapolis, Indiana, the property was completed in 2022. It is a fully air-conditioned, single-storey logistics building with a gross floor area of 979,649 sq ft. This acquisition will increase the value of CLAR’s logistics assets under management (AUM) in the US by 35.3% to around $587.5 million. It will also expand CLAR’s logistics footprint in the US to 20 properties across four cities, with a total GFA of approximately 5.1 million sq ft. Currently, CLAR’s logistics assets in the US are located in Kansas City, Chicago, and Charleston.

William Tay, executive director and CEO of the manager, said, “DHL Indianapolis Logistics Center is a strategic fit with our existing portfolio… This is CLAR’s first sale and leaseback acquisition in the US and, with the addition of this Class A logistics property, modern logistics assets will account for 42.3% of our US logistics assets under management. With the long lease in place, this property will further enhance CLAR’s resilient income stream, and we expect the two new properties to contribute positively to our long-term returns.”…

Wee Hur Holdings Announces Sale of PBSA Portfolio to Greystar

Investing in a condo in Singapore has become an increasingly popular decision for both local and foreign investors. This is largely due to the city-state’s strong economy, stable political climate, and exceptional quality of life. With a real estate market that offers a plethora of opportunities, condos have emerged as a top choice for their convenience, amenities, and potential for high returns. In this article, we will delve into the advantages, considerations, and necessary steps to take when making a condo investment in Singapore.

Wee Hur Holdings has recently revealed that it has entered into a binding agreement to sell its portfolio of seven purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) assets to Greystar. This sale, which was announced on December 16, will see Greystar acquiring the group’s PBSA portfolio, which comprises over 5,500 beds across various Australian cities, for a total consideration of A$1.6 billion ($1.4 billion).

Following the completion of the transaction, Wee Hur will retain a 13% stake in the portfolio through its subsidiary, Wee Hur (Australia). The group has stated that the net proceeds of approximately $320 million will be used towards its strategic growth, supporting its reinvestment in core business, and expanding into new areas such as alternative investments. The completion of the transaction is expected to take place within the next six months, pending approvals from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) for Greystar and consent from Wee Hur’s shareholders.

Wee Hur believes that this transaction is a testament to the group’s ability to navigate through complex market conditions, including the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic and greenfield developments. It also aligns with the group’s long-term strategy of diversifying its portfolio and positioning itself for sustainable growth in various sectors.

Goh Wee Ping, CEO of Wee Hur Capital, expressed his satisfaction with the sale and stated that it is a result of the group’s decisive actions to secure liquidity and stability in the midst of global uncertainty. He further added that the sale is a prime example of the group’s commitment to unlocking maximum value for its stakeholders.

Indeed, Wee Hur’s shares have surged by 11% after the announcement of the sale, as investors responded positively to the news. This is a significant development for the group, which has been expanding its presence in the PBSA market over the years. In addition, the sale also shows the group’s ability to adapt and capitalize on opportunities, positioning itself for sustained growth in the long run.…

On December 16, developers Hoi Hup Realty and Sunway Developments successfully sold 137 units at Novo Place executive condominium (EC) during the second round of balloting. This phase was open to second-timers, or buyers who have previously purchased a subsidized flat, either as a new or resale HDB flat or an EC.

These 137 units bring the total sold at Novo Place to 444 units, representing 88.1% of the development, according to Mark Yip, CEO of Huttons Asia. Yip adds that the project achieved this milestone within just one month of its launch on November 16, making it the best-selling EC project of 2024.

When purchasing a condominium, it is crucial to take into account the maintenance and management aspect of the property as well. In most cases, condos come with maintenance fees that cover the maintenance of shared areas and amenities. Although these fees may increase the total cost of ownership, they also guarantee that the property stays in excellent condition and maintains its value. Hiring a property management firm can assist investors in handling the daily management of their condos, making it a less involved investment. Additionally, Singapore Projects offer a diverse range of condo options for investors to consider when making their investment decisions.

“This reflects strong interest from second-timers who are eager to upgrade their lifestyle,” Yip notes. “Many of the buyers are current residents in the West.”

According to Yip, all four-bedroom units at Novo Place have been sold out, indicating high demand for spacious homes.

Novo Place is located at Plantation Close in the new Tengah town and is just a five-minute walk from Tengah Park MRT station on the Jurong Region Line (JRL). The JRL provides convenient access to major employment hubs in the West, such as the Jurong Lake District and Jurong Innovation District. Yip highlights that very few ECs can offer such close proximity to an MRT station.

Huttons reveals that many buyers have chosen the deferred payment scheme, which allows them to secure their desired unit first while deferring their home loan payments. “This helps ease the financial burden for HDB upgraders who still have an outstanding loan on their current flat,” Yip explains.

“ECs are experiencing strong demand from HDB upgraders due to their comparable quality and finishes to private condominiums but at a more affordable price,” Yip adds. “In addition, buyers can enjoy upfront remission on the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD).”

As of December 16, the average price of units sold at Novo Place, based on lodged caveats, is $1,656 psf. Interested buyers can check out the latest listings for Novo Place properties and explore comprehensive data about all ECs, including the average profit at 5 and 10 years.

Buddy can help you find more information on Novo Place and show you available condo listings in District 24, where the project is located. You can also check out the sale transactions in District 24 and see what upcoming new launch projects are in the area. If you’re wondering what available units are left at Novo Place, Buddy can provide you with a project summary and show you all the condo listings in District 24, the current sale transactions, and the latest available units at Novo Place.…

Developers have sold a total of 2,557 new private homes in November, excluding executive condos (ECs), based on data released by URA on December 16. This indicates a significant increase of 246.5% from the 738 units sold in October, and a remarkable growth of 226% compared to the number of units sold in November of 2023.

According to Christine Sun, chief researcher and strategist at OrangeTee Group, this surge marks the highest monthly developer sales since March 2013, when 2,793 units (excluding ECs) were sold. Mohan Sandrasegeran, head of research and data analytics at Singapore Realtors Inc (SRI), adds that this is also the first time in over seven years that new home sales have surpassed the 2,000-unit mark in a single month.

The impressive figure for November was driven by an “unprecedented” number of project launches during the month, explains Lee Sze Teck, senior director of data analytics at Huttons Asia. A total of five private residential projects were launched, including the 916-unit Chuan Park, the 846-unit Emerald of Katong, the 552-unit Nava Grove, the 367-unit The Collective at One Sophia, and the 366-unit Union Square Residences.

On top of that, the 504-unit Novo Place EC also commenced sales in November. When including ECs in the figure, new home sales jumped by 277% compared to the previous month and 226% from the same period last year, reaching a total of 2,891 units in November.

Based on the data from URA, developers have sold an estimated 6,344 units as of November, which is only marginally higher than the 6,317 units sold in the first eleven months of 2023. This is despite the fact that developers launched 6,627 units for sale during the same period, which is lower than the 7,515 units launched in the first 11 months of 2023.

Top-performing projects

Emerald of Katong was the top-performing project in November, selling 840 units (or 99%) with a median price of $2,627 psf. Located on Jalan Tembusu in the Rest of Central Region (RCR), the 846-unit development by Sim Lian Group has become the best-selling project in 2024 in terms of both units and percentage.

“Buyers were attracted to the project’s excellent design and offerings, particularly those who want to live near the East Coast. The lower interest rates also made mortgages more accessible, providing further incentives for buyers to invest in this city-fringe development,” observes OrangeTee’s Sun.

Chuan Park, a 99-year leasehold condo by Kingsford Group, was the second best-selling project in November, with 721 units (or 79%) sold at a median price of $2,586 psf. Located on Lorong Chuan, adjacent to Lorong Chuan MRT Station in the Outside Central Region (OCR), the 916-unit development takes the title of the second-best-selling project in terms of units.

The third best-selling project in November in terms of units sold was Nava Grove, located at Pine Grove in District 21. The 99-year leasehold condo, developed by MCL Land and Sinarmas Land, sold 382 units (or 69%) at a median price of $2,445 psf.

According to Sun, the strong sales performance among the new launches can be attributed to pent-up demand and improved buyer sentiment following the September interest rate cut. “As a result, many buyers were eager to take advantage of attractive deals offered by several prominent projects launched simultaneously,” she adds.

Investing in a condo in Singapore presents a multitude of benefits, making it a lucrative option for both local and foreign investors. With a high demand for condos, potential for capital appreciation, and attractive rental yields, it is no surprise that this type of property has become a popular choice in the city-state. However, before diving into this market, it is crucial to carefully evaluate crucial factors such as location, financing options, government regulations, and current market conditions. By conducting thorough research and seeking professional advice, investors can make informed decisions and maximize their returns in Singapore’s ever-evolving real estate landscape. Whether you seek to diversify your investment portfolio as a local investor or are a foreign buyer looking for a stable and profitable opportunity, condos in Singapore present an enticing prospect.

Huttons’ Lee further explains that buying momentum has been steadily building up since the last quarter, when project launches such as the 158-unit 8@BT and the 348-unit Norwood Grand received a robust response. There were also instances where buyers, who missed out on their preferred unit in a particular project, quickly committed to a unit in another new or existing project.

In November, EdgeProp Singapore reported that the launch of Emerald of Katong has had a ripple effect on neighboring projects in District 15. Developments such as Tembusu Grand and The Continuum have seen an increase in take-up rates.

Huttons’ Lee predicts that December sales will be more subdued due to the ongoing school holidays and festive season. He expects new private home sales to reach around 200 to 250 units, bringing the total developer sales for the year to approximately 6,500 units. This is slightly more than the number of units sold in 2023. Moreover, he projects price growth to be around 5%, moderating from the 6.8% registered in 2023.

Looking ahead to 2025, Sandrasegeran of SRI anticipates a rebound in new home sales in January with the launch of The Orie by City Developments. Located on Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, the 777-unit development is the first project to be launched in the area since Gem Residences in 2016. The extended gap between launches is expected to generate pent-up demand, particularly from buyers looking to live near Braddell MRT station.

Other developments that are expected to launch in the first quarter of 2025 include the 113-unit Bagnall Haus, the 186-unit Aurea, and the 760-unit Aurelle of Tampines EC.

Sun of OrangeTee believes that the recent surge in sales is temporary and that the subdued demand for new homes will continue in 2024 due to the lack of significant private project launches. She notes that developer sales during the first three quarters of 2024 were the lowest recorded since 2004, the year when URA data became available.

On the other hand, Huttons’ Lee is “cautiously optimistic” about a better performance in the new sale market in 2025. He expects that some of the unsatiated demand in 2024 will carry over to the launches in the first quarter of 2025. Lee projects new private home sales to rebound to between 7,000 and 8,000 units in 2025, while prices are estimated to grow between 4% and 7%.…

When it comes to investing in condominiums in Singapore, one cannot overlook the impact of the government’s property cooling measures. This has been a significant consideration for potential investors, as the Singaporean government has implemented various measures to prevent speculative buying and maintain a stable real estate market. These measures include the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which imposes higher taxes on both foreign buyers and those purchasing multiple properties. While these measures may affect the immediate profitability of investing in Singapore condos, they ultimately contribute to the long-term stability of the market, creating a secure investment environment for investors. Therefore, when looking to invest in Singapore Condos, one must take into account the government’s property cooling measures.

Hilton, a renowned global hospitality company, has recently opened a new property called Hilton Garden Inn Beihai Jiafu in the bustling seaport city of Beihai, China. This marks a significant milestone as it is the 100th Hilton Garden Inn property in the Greater China region. The hotel features 199 well-appointed rooms and is conveniently located just 2km from Beihai High-Speed Railway Station and 6km from Beihai Fucheng Airport. It is also a short 20-minute drive to Beihai International Passenger Port.

According to Qian Jin, the president of Hilton Greater China and Mongolia, the opening of Beihai Jiafu Hilton Garden Inn not only showcases the brand’s rapid growth, but also demonstrates their strong commitment to the Chinese market. Hilton’s first Hilton Garden Inn property was launched in Shenzhen in 2014 and since then, the brand has expanded to various cities in China, including Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, Guilin, and Aksu. In line with its development plans, more Hilton Garden Inn properties are expected to open across China by 2025, with debuts in popular tourist destinations such as Zhangjiajie, Ordos, Huangshan, Shanwei, and Jinan.

In addition, Hilton also plans to introduce the Hilton Garden Inn Gen A properties, a regional prototype specially designed for Generation Alpha travelers in the Greater China region. This was announced in June, with initial locations planned in Nanjing, Chengdu, Chengde, and Jinan. These new properties will contribute to the brand’s expansion in the wider Asia Pacific region. Clarence Tan, the senior vice president of development, Asia Pacific at Hilton, reveals that over 200 Hilton Garden Inn properties are currently under development across Asia Pacific.

In conclusion, the opening of Hilton Garden Inn Beihai Jiafu and the upcoming launches of new properties in China and Asia Pacific reflect Hilton’s strong presence and continuous growth in the region’s mid-market segment. With its commitment to providing excellent hospitality services, Hilton is set to reach new heights and cater to the diverse needs of travelers across the Asia Pacific.…

CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is expanding its presence in Australia with the acquisition of Wingate Group Holdings’ property and corporate credit investment management business for A$200 million ($173 million), plus an additional earn-out. The deal is set to increase CLI’s total funds under management (FUM) in Australia by 30%, bringing it to $8.3 billion. This will also contribute to CLI’s ambition to reach $200 billion in FUM by 2028.

The acquisition, announced on Dec 16, confirms earlier reports by the Australian media last month. Upon completion, CLI’s FUM in Australia will make up around 7% of its total of $115 billion.

CLI’s commitment to investing up to A$1 billion in growing its FUM in Australia is part of its goal to reach $200 billion in FUM by 2028, a decade after divesting its key assets in Australia to focus on rapidly growing markets like China and other overseas markets.

CLI has had a long-standing partnership with Wingate, and in September, announced the successful close of a A$265 million Australia Credit Program (ACP) created in collaboration with Wingate.

Wingate is a reputable credit investment manager in Australia, having completed over 350 transactions worth more than A$20 billion. CLI’s acquisition of Wingate will not only expand its extensive deal origination networks, but also provide access to a larger pool of institutional and high-net-worth investors, as well as increase its geographical presence in the Australian market.

Paul Tham, CLI’s Group Chief Financial Officer, believes that besides Australia, there are also significant private credit opportunities in other Asia Pacific markets such as South Korea, India, and Japan. He states that as CLI continues to diversify geographically, Australia is a key focus market with strong potential for growth.

According to CLI, the Australian private capital market has grown 33% over the past 18 months, with assets under management reaching A$139 billion. There is also a forecasted A$146 billion commercial mortgage funding gap expected by 2028. With Wingate’s expertise, CLI will be able to further diversify its portfolio, which includes logistics, business parks, offices, and lodging assets in nine Australian cities.

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As of Sept 30, CLI manages 34 logistics properties and business parks, as well as four Grade A office buildings in Australia. It also owns over 13,500 lodging units across more than 150 properties through its wholly-owned lodging business unit, The Ascott. This acquisition will contribute to CLI’s goal to expand its presence and FUM in Australia, as well as its overall ambition to reach $200 billion in FUM by 2028.…