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Singapore’s Hill House Condo Sets New Record of $3,267 psf During Nov 10-21 Period

Hill House, a boutique development situated in the prestigious District 9, has recently taken the lead with its condominiums reaching the highest psf-price highs between November 10 to 21. This new price-high of $3,267 psf was achieved from the sale of a 452 sq ft, two-bedroom unit on the fifth floor, which the developer sold for $1.48 million on November 11.The new record is slightly 0.1% higher than the previous price high of $3,263 psf that was set in November 2023 when a 624 sq ft two-bedroom unit on the ninth floor was sold for $2.04 million. Hill House, which is currently under development, has recorded a total of 11 transactions this year, with an average price of $3,098 psf. This is 0.9% lower than the average price of $3,127 psf based on the five transactions at the development last year.

To keep up-to-date with the latest new launches, check out the New Launches page to find out the transaction prices and available units. Hill House, an artist’s impression which has seen a new record of $3,267 psf during the period in review (Photo: Macly Group)Hill House is a 999-year leasehold condo located at the top of Institution Hill, off River Valley Road, in prime District 9. The boutique development, comprising 72 units, has 40 one-bedroom and one-bedroom plus study types measuring 431 sq ft to 452 sq ft. The remaining 24 units are two-bedroom units of 624 sq ft and eight three-bedroom apartments of 753 sq ft.

According to URA caveats, 29 units (40%) at Hill House have been sold at an average price of $3,060 psf since the condo’s launch in November 2022. The condo is still under construction and is slated to be completed in 3Q2026.

In second place for reaching new psf-price highs between November 10 to 21 is The Continuum, a freehold condo, which achieved a record of $3,084 psf. This was from the sale of a 721 sq ft, two-bedroom unit on the 17th floor, sold for $2.22 million on November 16. The Continuum saw a new psf-price high of $3,084 psf from the new sale of a 721 sq ft, two-bedroom unit on the 17th floor, sold at $2.22 million on Nov 16 (Photo: Samuel Isaac Chua/EdgeProp Singapore)The new record is only 0.4% higher than the previous high of $3,071 psf at The Continuum. This was set a day earlier when a 721 sq ft, two-bedroom unit on the 16th floor was sold for $2.22 million on Nov 15.

The Continuum is a freehold condo situated on Thiam Siew Avenue, off Haig Road and Tanjong Katong Road in District 15. Launched in April last year, the development consists of six residential towers across two land parcels. Residents will be linked by a private pedestrian overhead bridge. The units in the development are a mix of one- to five-bedroom apartments, ranging from 560 sq ft to 2,260 sq ft.

When investing in a Condo, it is essential to consider the upkeep and management of the property. Typically, Condos come with maintenance fees that cover the maintenance of common areas and facilities. While these fees may add to the overall cost of owning a Condo, they also ensure the preservation of the property’s state and value. By teaming up with a property management company, buyers can take a more hands-off approach to managing their Condo, making it a more effortless investment. Additionally, investors can visit Condo to find more information about managing their property.

Based on caveats lodged, a total of 489 units (59.8%) at The Continuum have been sold at an average price of $2,779 psf since its launch in May 2023. The condo is also still under construction and is expected to be completed by 2026.

Meanwhile, Lavender Residence, a freehold boutique development, has achieved a record low psf-price during the period in review. The new low was set from the sale of a 990 sq ft, one-bedroom plus studio unit on the second floor, sold for $1.61 million, or $1,626 psf, on November 17.

In comparison, the condo’s previous psf-price low was $1,710 psf achieved in June 2023, when a 1,335 sq ft, four-bedroom unit on the sixth floor was purchased for $2.28 million. With the November 17 transaction, Lavender Residence is now fully sold at an average price of $1,984 psf.

When contemplating an investment in a Singapore condo, it is crucial to also evaluate its potential rental yield. This refers to the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s purchase price. The rental yield for condos in Singapore can vary significantly depending on factors such as its location, condition, and demand in the market. Generally, areas with a high demand for rentals, such as those near business districts or educational institutions, are more likely to have a higher rental yield. To gain a better understanding of a specific Singapore condo’s rental potential, it is beneficial to conduct thorough market research and consult with real estate agents. Consider exploring options with a company like Singapore Condo to make an informed decision.

Lavender Residence is a 17-unit development located at the junction of Lavender Street and Kempas Road in Boon Keng, District 12. The development sits on a site occupied by a trio of two-storey conservation shophouses dating back to the 1940s in the art-deco style. Its units range from studios to three-bedroom apartments, with some dual-key variants, from 463 sq ft to 1,550 sq ft. The development is within walking distance to Bendemeer MRT Station on the Downtown Line. To find out the latest listings for Hill House, The Continuum, and Lavender Residence properties, or to view sale transactions and price trends, you can use the Ask Buddy feature on EdgeProp.…

The government has recently announced a plan to provide property tax rebates for both owner-occupied HDB flats and private residential properties in 2025. The rebate for HDB flats will be a one-off 20%, while the rebate for private residential properties will be a one-off 15%. However, there will be a cap of $1,000 for owners of private residential properties.

Purchasing a condo in Singapore offers numerous benefits, one of which is the potential for capital appreciation. Due to its strategic position as a leading global business hub and its stable economic foundation, there is a consistent demand for real estate in Singapore. This has resulted in a steady increase in property prices over the years, particularly for condos located in prime areas. As a result, investors who make wise decisions and retain their properties for an extended period of time can reap significant capital gains. For those interested in investing in a condo in Singapore, this potential for capital appreciation is certainly a key factor to consider.

In Singapore, property tax is calculated based on a property’s annual value, which is an estimate of the annual rent if the property was to be rented out. This rebate was proposed by the government on Nov 29, as they plan to raise the annual value bands for owner-occupied properties on Jan 1 next year, as part of Budget 2024.

These changes are expected to benefit a majority of owner-occupiers, with over 90% of private residential properties and all HDB flats seeing a decrease in property taxes next year. This move by the government aims to alleviate any concerns about the cost of living for Singaporeans.

Lee Sze Teck, the senior director of data analytics at Huttons Asia, predicts that the annual value for private properties will remain steady due to the low growth of private residential rents in the current year. However, HDB rents are expected to increase by 4%, thus raising the annual value of HDB flats.

To help cushion the impact of this increase in annual value, the one-off property tax rebate may be beneficial for HDB owners. For instance, if a HDB flat has an annual value of $30,000, the property tax payable in 2025 would be $720. With the rebate, the owner would only need to pay $576, resulting in a savings of $144.

Similarly, private residential property owners may also stand to benefit from this one-off rebate. For example, if the annual value of a property is $85,000, the property tax payable in 2025 would be $5,760. However, with the 15% rebate capped at $1,000, the owner would only need to pay $4,896, saving $864 in property taxes.

Despite the availability of property tax rebates, Lee emphasizes that it will not affect the appeal of investing in residential properties in Singapore. The potential for capital appreciation far outweighs the increase in property taxes, making it a lucrative option for investors.

When purchasing a condo, it is crucial to take into account the maintenance and management aspects of the property. Along with the purchase comes maintenance fees that cover the upkeep of shared areas and amenities. While this may increase the overall cost of ownership, it also guarantees that the condo stays in good condition and holds its value. Employing the services of a property management company can assist investors in handling the day-to-day management of their condo, making it a more passive investment.

In conclusion, the property tax rebates proposed by the government in their recent Budget 2024 announcement will benefit owner-occupied properties with lower annual values. This move is in line with their goal of addressing cost-of-living concerns among Singaporeans.…

In just two years, local real estate developer Jason Ng has built his property investment and training firm Aurico Global from the ground up to reach $52 million in assets under management. Ng, who serves as CEO and executive chairman of Aurico, has had a long journey in the property investment industry, with his first investment dating back to 1993 when he was motivated to provide for his family.

The decision to invest in a condominium in Singapore has gained popularity among both local and foreign investors, thanks to the country’s thriving economy, unwavering political climate, and exceptional quality of life. Singapore’s real estate industry presents a multitude of prospects, and condos reign supreme for their convenience, facilities, and potential for lucrative returns. In this article, we will delve into the advantages, factors to consider, and necessary measures for investing in a condo in Singapore, including Singapore projects.

Growing up in a rental flat in Dakota Crescent with six family members, Ng worked hard to secure a well-paying job that allowed him to make his first property investment – a 1,400 sq ft three-bedroom apartment for $435,000. With real estate experience under his belt, he continued to expand his portfolio while also venturing into student enrichment and parenting training. He is now accredited as a family life educator and has been working with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Social and Family Development for over 15 years.

In January 2023, Ng co-founded Aurico with his wife, Emelyn Ho, to consolidate his diverse portfolio of businesses. These include Aurico’s co-living investment and management arm JC Global Developments, property and investment training arm Anchor of Life Training Consultants, and My Preschool Hub – a provider of preschool enrichment resources and programmes.

Aurico has a wide range of property investments, from residential co-living units to commercial and industrial assets. Its co-living venture, Communa, managed by JC Global Developments, currently has 380 units in shophouses, condos, and landed properties with a total value of over $30 million. Aurico plans to acquire more properties and aims to nearly double its current portfolio to reach 600 units by the end of the year.

The company’s strategy is to acquire valuable properties in high-traffic areas below their valuation price. In September, Aurico purchased a two-storey shophouse on 321 Joo Chiat Road for $5.1 million, which was 12% below its valuation of $5.8 million. According to shareholder Patrick Loke, this is a testament to the firm’s strong property investment team and Ng’s sharp acumen. He emphasizes the importance of buying properties at below market value, ensuring a profit before the purchase is even made.

Aurico also has its sights set on commercial properties in strategic locations that are experiencing rapid transformation, such as the 99-year leasehold mixed-use development Woods Square in Woodlands. The company purchased a 560 sq ft commercial strata office unit at Woods Square in July for its own use, believing it will provide benefits in the long term as the area develops. The company also recently acquired food factory assets to take advantage of the government’s “30 by 30” goal to produce 30% of the country’s nutritional needs by 2030.

In May, Aurico acquired a 29.8% controlling stake in Autagco Ltd, a company listed on the Singapore Exchange. Ng has appointed Loke as the executive director of Autagco, and the board of directors has announced a strategic review to potentially diversify into property investment, co-living property management, education, and other businesses. With this, Aurico has plans to inject its assets into the company, and in October, Autagco announced its intention to expand into residential assisted living with the establishment of Communa Gold, a subsidiary focused on this sector.

In summary, making a real estate investment in Singapore through purchasing a condo presents numerous benefits, including a high demand, potential for value appreciation, and attractive rental yields. Nevertheless, it is crucial to carefully evaluate various factors such as the location, financing options, government policies, and market conditions before making a decision. By conducting thorough research and seeking expert advice, investors can make informed choices and leverage the dynamic real estate market in Singapore. This is where Singapore Projects can come into play, providing premium opportunities for both local and foreign investors to diversify and achieve profitable returns. Whether you are a local investor looking to expand your portfolio or a foreign buyer seeking a secure and lucrative investment, condos in Singapore offer a compelling chance for success.

Ng has also made it his mission to provide comprehensive and high-quality property investment education to aspiring investors. He believes that investment education is essential but often inaccessible to many. Through Aurico’s courses, participants have the opportunity to leverage the firm’s network and strategies to enhance their investment portfolio. Ng is passionate about helping millennial and Gen Z investors, debunking the belief that property investment is only for the affluent. With its comprehensive curriculum and hands-on support, Aurico aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions and achieve their financial goals through real estate.…

Investing in a condo in Singapore is a smart choice for many reasons. This type of property boasts a high demand in the current market, making it an ideal investment option. Furthermore, condos in Singapore offer the potential for capital appreciation, providing owners with the opportunity to see a return on their investment over time. Additionally, the attractive rental yields make condos in Singapore a profitable choice for investors.

However, before making an investment, it is crucial to carefully consider various factors. Location is a key aspect to keep in mind as it can greatly impact the success of a condo investment. It is essential to research the neighborhood and ensure that it meets your investment goals. Apart from location, financing options must also be carefully evaluated to determine the most suitable option for your budget and goals.

Moreover, government regulations and market conditions play a crucial role in a condo’s success as an investment. It is important to stay updated on any changes in regulations and market trends to make informed decisions. Seeking professional advice from experts in the real estate industry can also help guide investors in making the best investment choices.

For both local and foreign investors, condos in Singapore offer a compelling opportunity to diversify their portfolio and achieve stable and profitable returns. By conducting thorough research and seeking professional guidance, investors can maximize their returns in Singapore’s dynamic real estate market. So, whether you are a local investor looking to expand your investment portfolio or a foreign buyer seeking a lucrative opportunity, consider investing in a condo in Singapore for long-term success.

During the week of November 12 to 19, the most profitable condo resale deal was recorded at Maple Woods, where a three-bedroom unit was sold for $3.3 million ($2,144 psf) on November 15. The 1,539 sq ft unit on the first floor had been purchased in April 2009 for $1.28 million ($830 psf), resulting in the seller making a profit of $2.02 million. This translates to a capital gain of 158% or an annualized profit of 10.6% over a holding period of approximately 15 and a half years.

Maple Woods is a freehold condo situated in prime District 10, along Bukit Timah Road. Built in 1997, it boasts 697 units ranging from two-bedders to four-bedders, with sizes ranging from 850 sq ft to 3,003 sq ft. The development is a short five-minute walk from King Albert Park MRT Station on the Downtown Line and is also near reputable schools such as Methodist Girls’ School and the Rail Corridor.

There have been 10 other resale transactions at Maple Woods this year, all of which have been profitable deals with the sellers making gains of at least $425,000. Three of these units were sold for profits of over $2 million. The first was a 1,787 sq ft three-bedroom unit on the eighth floor that was sold for $3.75 million ($2,099 psf), netting the seller a profit of $2.15 million. They had originally purchased the unit in July 1997 for $1.6 million ($895 psf).

The second unit was a 1,787 sq ft three-bedroom unit that was sold for $3.82 million ($2,138 psf) on September 10. The seller, who had bought the unit in March 2007 for $1.35 million ($756 psf), made a profit of $2.47 million. The third unit was also sold on September 10. The 3,003 sq ft four-bedroom unit on the eighth floor was transacted at $5 million ($1,665 psf). The seller, who had bought the unit in September 1998 for $2.4 million ($798 psf), made a gain of $2.6 million.

UE Square saw the second most profitable condo resale deal during the week of November 12 to 19. A three-bedroom unit measuring 1,528 sq ft on the seventh floor was sold for $2.95 million ($1,930 psf) on November 14. The seller had bought the unit through a sub-sale in December 1997 for $1.3 million ($850 psf), resulting in a profit of $1.65 million (127%) after owning the unit for nearly 27 years.

This deal ranks as the fourth most profitable resale transaction at UE Square. The highest profit recorded at this development is for a four-bedroom penthouse spanning 3,089 sq ft, which sold for $6.27 million ($2,031 psf) on October 6, 2023. The seller, who had bought the unit for $4.1 million ($1,327 psf) in December 2009, made a $2.17 million profit.

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Proper financing is a crucial aspect to consider when investing in a Condo. In Singapore, there is a wide variety of mortgage options available to potential buyers. However, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) framework. This guideline sets a limit on the loan amount that a borrower can obtain based on their income and current debt obligations. It is essential for investors to thoroughly understand the TDSR and seek guidance from financial experts or mortgage brokers to make well-informed decisions about financing. This will prevent them from overextending their financial resources and allow them to successfully invest in a Condo that fits within their budgetary constraints. It is important to keep in mind the TDSR when considering financing options for a Condo investment. Consulting with professionals can provide valuable insight and aid in securing a desirable and affordable Condo.

UE Square is part of UE BizHub City, a mixed-use development along Clemenceau Avenue in District 9, near Clarke Quay. It comprises an 18-storey office building with a four-storey shopping podium and a pair of 18-storey residential towers housing 345 units. A service road separates the commercial tower from the residential towers.

The residences at UE Square consist of one- to five-bedders ranging from 506 sq ft to 2,379 sq ft, as well as penthouses spanning 3,089 sq ft. The development is located near Fort Canning MRT Station on the Downtown Line.

Lastly, the most unprofitable condo resale deal during the week of November 12 to 19 was recorded at Tomlinson Heights, where a three-bedroom unit measuring 2,745 sq ft on the 19th floor was sold for $8.25 million ($3,006 psf) on November 19. The seller had originally purchased the unit from the developer in February 2011 for $8.85 million ($3,225 psf), incurring a loss of about $601,000 (6.8%) after holding on to the unit for almost 14 years.

Tomlinson Heights is a luxury 70-unit condo situated off Orchard Boulevard, comprising a 36-storey tower with a mix of three- and five-bedroom units ranging from 2,551 sq ft to 6,738 sq ft. Completed in 2014, the freehold development is within walking distance of malls along the Orchard Road shopping belt.

This transaction is the first caveated deal at Tomlinson Heights since January 5, 2023, when another 2,745 sq ft unit was sold for $10.5 million ($3,825 psf). The seller, who had bought the unit from the developer in May 2011 for $8.38 million ($3,053 psf), made a profit of $2.12 million.…

Hong Lai Huat, a company listed on the Mainboard, has recently announced a strategic partnership with co-living operator, The Assembly Place. Under the terms of the agreement, The Assembly Place will be responsible for managing Hong Lai Huat’s real estate and property development projects in Cambodia. This marks the first introduction of the co-living concept to the country.

Both companies released a joint statement on November 28, stating their intent to finalize key objectives within the next 60 days and enter into a binding agreement. Some of these objectives include conducting feasibility studies for fitting out available units in Hong Lai Huat’s Royal Group Platinum development in Cambodia.

In addition, the partnership aims to explore ways to market Hong Lai Huat’s available commercial shop-house units at Royal Group Platinum. The Assembly Place’s extensive network will be leveraged to establish new sales channels in Singapore, Hong Kong, and first-tier cities in Greater China for Hong Lai Huat’s completed and upcoming projects. The collaboration will also provide ongoing after-sales asset management services and create job opportunities in local communities.

According to Hong Lai Huat’s website, the Royal Group Platinum development is a mixed residential and commercial project featuring 851 residential and 50 shophouse units. It is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Phnom Penh International Airport and is surrounded by 16 international schools and six sports facilities. The project is also within a 10-minute drive from Aeon Mall 2, the largest shopping mall in Phnom Penh.

Ong Jia Jing, executive director of Hong Lai Huat, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that it will enable the company to provide top-tier asset management services to their investors and buyers in Cambodia. He believes that this will give them the confidence they need when purchasing units in their developments.

The Assembly Place’s CEO, Eugene Lim Ying Jie, views this partnership as an opportunity to further expand the co-living concept both locally and internationally. He believes that with Hong Lai Huat’s high-quality and well-designed developments, combined with The Assembly Place’s extensive experience in the co-living sector, they can deliver exceptional value to their purchasers.

When it comes to investing in real estate, one of the most important factors to consider is location. This holds even more true in Singapore, where the right location can make all the difference. Choosing a condo in a central area or one that is close to essential amenities such as schools, shopping malls, and public transportation hubs can greatly enhance the value of your investment. For instance, areas like Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the Central Business District (CBD) have consistently seen an increase in property values over time. Additionally, condos located near reputable schools and educational institutions have become a popular choice for families, making them even more desirable and lucrative investments. For more information on top Singapore Projects, be sure to do your research and consider these prime locations for your real estate investment.

The signing ceremony for the partnership took place at the CAMPUS by The Assembly Place on November 28.

When considering investing in a Singapore Condo, it is important to also take into account its potential rental yield. This refers to the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s purchase price. In Singapore, condo rental yields can vary significantly based on factors like location, property condition, and market demand. Typically, areas with high rental demand, such as those near business districts or educational institutions, offer better rental yields. To accurately assess the rental potential of a particular Singapore Condo, it is advisable to thoroughly research the market and consult with real estate agents.…

On November 27, global real estate services firm CBRE announced the appointment of Michael Tay as deputy managing director of Singapore Advisory, effective Jan 1, 2025. In addition to his current role as head of capital markets in Singapore, Tay will now report to Moray Armstrong, CBRE’s managing director of Singapore Advisory.

The newly created position of deputy managing director will focus on providing long-term leadership and planning for CBRE’s Singapore advisory business. Tay will work closely with Armstrong to develop and direct strategy, evaluate and execute investments, including mergers and acquisitions, and drive business growth.

To sum up, the decision to invest in a Singapore condo comes with a multitude of benefits. These include a high demand for properties, potential for a rise in value, and appealing rental yields. However, it is crucial to carefully evaluate key factors like location, financing options, government regulations, and market conditions before making a purchase. By conducting thorough research and seeking guidance from professionals, investors can make well-informed choices and optimize their profits in Singapore’s constantly evolving real estate industry. Whether you are a local investor looking to diversify your portfolio or a foreign buyer searching for a solid and profitable investment, a Singapore Condo is a highly attractive option to consider.

Singapore’s limited land availability has been a major contributing factor to the soaring demand for condos in the country. As a small island nation with a rapidly expanding populace, Singapore grapples with a shortage of land for development. This has resulted in strict land usage regulations and a cutthroat real estate market, where property prices are continually on the rise. As a result, investing in real estate, particularly in condos, has become a highly profitable endeavor, promising substantial capital appreciation. Singapore Projects only add to the appeal of this lucrative sector.

Armstrong expressed confidence in Tay, saying, “With over 30 years of experience in commercial real estate, Michael is one of the most experienced professionals and thought leaders in the Singapore market. This is a result of his progression from office leasing to leadership roles across office services and capital markets with CBRE over the past 25 years.”

Tay has been a part of CBRE since 2000 and has spent almost two decades with the office services team. During this time, he has worked with some of the largest office building owners and prominent occupiers. In 2019, Tay took on the role of leading the Singapore capital markets team, which has been instrumental in many significant investment deals in the country. These include the sale of One George Street, 16 Collyer Quay, and VisionCrest Commercial.

In response to his appointment, Tay expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and the opportunity for career growth within the company. He stated, “It has been an amazing 25-year journey with CBRE and I am grateful for the privilege of advancing my experience with the company, working and learning from some of the leading professionals in Singapore.”…

Location is a crucial factor in real estate investment, and this holds true in the bustling city-state of Singapore. The value of a condo is greatly influenced by its location, especially if it is situated in a prime area near top-rated schools, popular shopping centers, and convenient public transportation. It is no surprise that districts like Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the Central Business District (CBD) have seen consistent growth in property values over time. Families also prioritize condos near prestigious educational institutions, making them highly coveted and strengthening their potential for investment. Therefore, for those considering investing in a Singapore Condo, carefully selecting the location is crucial in order to maximize returns on their investment.

When it comes to investing in a Singapore Condo, financing is a crucial factor to consider. The country offers a variety of mortgage choices, but it is vital to be well-informed about the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) framework. This framework sets a limit on the amount of loan a borrower can take based on their income and existing debt obligations. To avoid over-leveraging, it is important for investors to understand the TDSR and seek advice from financial advisors or mortgage brokers when exploring financing options. By doing so, investors can make informed decisions about their financing and ensure a successful investment in a Singapore Condo.

Singapore has recently made its mark as the sixth most renowned city in the world, according to the latest report from Brand Finance Global City Index. This index, published by a London-based consultancy specializing in brand evaluation and strategy, ranks cities based on their brand strength and perception.

The index is based on a global survey that was conducted among 15,000 individuals in 20 different countries in September. The respondents were asked to rank 100 cities according to various key performance indicators, to convey the level at which each city is perceived as an ideal place to live, work, study, visit, retire, and invest in.

Part of the survey included associating specific attributes with each city. The respondents chose from a list of 45 attributes grouped under seven categories such as Business & Investment and Culture & Heritage.

Singapore’s impressive overall ranking can be largely attributed to its performance in the Business & Investment category, where it ranked third globally. Aspects such as ease of doing business, economic strength, and support for start-ups were taken into consideration under this category. The city also received high scores for its low crime rate and low levels of violence.

Alex Haigh, the managing director for Asia Pacific at Brand Finance, acknowledges Singapore as the standout city in the Asean region in terms of branding. He adds, “With its strong economic growth, attractive investment opportunities, and first-class infrastructure, Singapore has cemented its position as a world-class financial center.”

Looking at the global scale, London retains its top ranking as the world’s leading city brand, followed by New York, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai. Singapore’s position as the sixth highest city brand in the world shows its increasing reputation and appeal on the global stage.…

When purchasing a condo, it is crucial to factor in the maintenance and management of the property. These types of properties usually come with maintenance fees, which cover the maintenance of common areas and amenities. While these fees may increase the overall cost of ownership, they also guarantee that the property will maintain its value and remain in good condition. For investors looking for a more hands-off approach, hiring a property management company can assist in handling the daily management of their condos. Including Singapore Projects in the options for investing in a condo is beneficial.

During its investor day, CapitaLand Investment’s (CLI) management announced plans to expand its business in Australia. The company has appointed two senior hires to newly created roles to strengthen its talent bench and spearhead growth in its focus market. Angelo Scasserra and Rahul Bharara will be joining the company in the first half of 2025 as CEO of CLI Australia and Chief Investment Officer, respectively.

CLI also stated that it will be investing up to A$1 billion ($876.7 million) to increase its funds under management (FUM) in Australia. In September, CLI successfully closed its Australian Credit Programme (ACP), which was its first credit fund in Australia at A$265 million with the backing of Asian investors.

During the investor day, CLI’s group CEO, Lee Chee Koon, shared, “For private credit, we’ve built our own team and formed a partnership with teams from Wingate in Australia, originating and underwriting deals. There is a lot more pipeline we can build in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.”

Interestingly, on November 25th, the Australian Financial Review published a story reporting that CLI was planning to acquire Wingate.

In 2014, CapitaLand divested Australand Property Group, which was subsequently acquired by Frasers Property and renamed as Frasers Property Australia. During the question-and-answer session, CLI’s Chairman, Miguel Ko, was asked about the decision to sell Australand and focus on investing in China. Ko stated that the decision was made before his time and did not want to comment on his predecessors’ actions. He added that the company “did not have a crystal ball, of course, about China’s situation today.”

At the time of the divestment, China was experiencing a boom, and CapitaLand had a strong competitive advantage. Ko stated, “That could have been a major win or a wrong move. This is not a comment on whether my predecessors made a right or wrong decision.”

When purchasing a condo, it’s crucial to also consider the maintenance and management of the property. These types of properties often come with maintenance fees that cover the upkeep of shared areas and amenities. Although these fees may increase the overall cost of owning a condo, they guarantee that the property stays in good condition and maintains its value. 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.

In March 2014, CapitaLand sold its remaining 39.1% stake in Australand after partially divesting its stake in November 2013 to improve trading liquidity. CapitaLand’s then-President and Group CEO, Lim Ming Yan, had stated that the divestment was made during “favourable” market conditions. He also noted that Australand’s share price had been performing strongly in the months leading up to the divestment. Yan also shared, “This divestment would allow us to reallocate capital to our core businesses in Singapore and China.”

With the recent transaction, CLI’s FUM has risen to $113 billion, contributing to the competitive race among asset management companies.…

Real estate buying sentiment in Singapore has taken a positive turn in the third quarter of 2024, according to the latest Real Estate Sentiment Index (RESI) released by the National University of Singapore (NUS).

In Singapore, investing in condos comes with a crucial consideration – the government’s property cooling measures. These measures have been implemented over the years to regulate speculative buying and maintain a stable real estate market. The Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), for instance, imposes higher taxes on foreign and multiple property buyers. While these measures may affect the short-term profitability of condo investments, they also contribute to the long-term stability of the market, making it a secure investment environment for Singapore Condos.

The RESI measures the overall sentiment of the private real estate market by surveying senior executives of real estate firms on a quarterly basis. It is conducted by the NUS Department of Real Estate and the NUS Institute of Real Estate and Urban Studies (IREUS).

The current sentiment index saw an increase from 4.8 in the second quarter of 2024 to 5.9 in the third quarter, while the future sentiment index also rose from 5.1 to 5.8 in the same period.

Meanwhile, the composite sentiment index, encompassing both the current and future sentiment, rose to 5.9 from 4.9 in the previous quarter. For the first time, all three indices have surpassed the neutral score of 5, indicating a growing optimism in the market.

IREUS director, Professor Qian Wenlan, attributes this positive sentiment to the US Federal Reserve’s interest rate cut in September – the first since 2019 – and another reduction in early November. She also expects further cuts in the future, leading to improved credit availability and lower costs of doing business, which will further boost market sentiment.

Professor Sing Tien Foo, Provost’s Chair Professor at the NUS Department of Real Estate, notes that the performance of the suburban residential, hotel/service apartments, and suburban retail sectors have also contributed to the increase in general market sentiment.

Suburban residential and hotel/serviced apartments recorded the highest current net balances of +35%, followed by suburban retail at +26%. These sectors also have a positive outlook for the future, with suburban residential scoring +29%, while hotel/serviced apartments and suburban retail scoring +35% and +19% respectively.

When considering an investment in a condo, it is essential to also evaluate its potential rental yield. Rental yield refers to the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s purchase price. In Singapore, condo rental yields can vary considerably depending on the location, condition of the property, and market demand. Generally, areas with high rental demand, such as those near business districts or educational institutions, offer better rental yields. To gain a better understanding of a condo’s rental potential, conducting thorough market research and consulting with real estate agents is crucial. Additionally, keeping an eye on new condo launches can provide valuable insights into the market and potential rental opportunities.

However, despite the overall positive sentiment, Prof Sing points out that global economic uncertainty remains the top risk concern for developers, with 67.7% of respondents citing a decline in the global economy 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 of which received a ranking of 41.9%.…

Singapore has made its mark on the world stage, coming in as the sixth-highest city in terms of branding according to the latest Brand Finance Global City Index. The index, which is published by Brand Finance, a well-respected brand evaluation and strategy consultancy based in London, ranks cities based on their brand power and perceptions.

The most recent index was compiled after a comprehensive survey was conducted across 15,000 individuals from 20 different countries in September. The respondents were asked to rank 100 cities based on key performance indicators that measure the city’s potential as an ideal destination to live, work, study, visit, retire, and invest in. In addition, the survey also asked respondents to associate specific attributes with each city. These attributes were grouped into seven pillars, including Business & Investment and Culture & Heritage.

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Investing in a condominium (condo) in Singapore offers a multitude of advantages. With its strong demand, potential for capital appreciation, and attractive rental yields, it is a lucrative investment option. However, before diving into it, certain crucial factors must be carefully considered. These include the location of the condo, available financing options, government regulations, and current market conditions. By conducting thorough research and seeking guidance from professionals, investors can make informed decisions and maximize their returns in Singapore’s constantly evolving real estate market. Whether you are a local investor looking to diversify your portfolio or a foreign buyer searching for a stable and profitable investment, condos in Singapore offer a compelling opportunity.

When it comes to investing in Singapore, it is crucial for foreign investors to familiarize themselves with the regulations and limitations surrounding property ownership. Unlike landed properties, which have more stringent ownership rules, foreigners are generally able to purchase condos without much restriction. However, it is important to note that foreign buyers are subject to the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), currently set at 20% for their initial property purchase. Despite these added expenses, the Singapore real estate market remains a highly attractive investment option due to its stability and potential for growth. In fact, the market continues to draw in foreign investment, with the recent launch of new condos, New Condo Launches, only adding to its appeal.

Singapore’s impressive overall ranking was largely attributed to its performance in the Business & Investment pillar, where it clinched the third spot globally. This pillar takes into consideration factors such as the ease of doing business, the strength of the economy, and the city’s support for start-ups. Singapore also received high marks for its low crime rates and a safe environment.

Alex Haigh, the managing director for Asia Pacific at Brand Finance, believes that Singapore stands out as the “crown jewel” in terms of city branding in the ASEAN region. He goes on to say that with its strong economic growth, investment appeal, and top-notch infrastructure, Singapore has solidified its position as a premier global financial hub.

On an international level, London continues to hold its title as the world’s top city brand, followed by New York, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai.…