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Chiu Teng Group, a renowned property developer in Singapore known for its quality commercial and industrial spaces, has launched its latest project – CT Pemimpin. This new freehold development is set to excite property investors and business owners on the lookout for a prime property in land-scarce Singapore.

Located at 43 Jalan Pemimpin in the Central Region, CT Pemimpin is a nine-storey, partial ramp-up factory consisting of 56 strata-titled units and three canteen units. The building boasts floor heights ranging from 5.6m to 7.35m, with selected units on levels one and five featuring mezzanine floors.

One of the main highlights of CT Pemimpin is its rare freehold status, making it a sought-after property in a market where most industrial developments have a lease of only 30 or 60 years. Furthermore, commercial and industrial property buyers are not subject to Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) by the government, making it an attractive option for investors and eligible foreigners.

“The freehold status of this development, coupled with its central location, makes it a valuable asset for both investors and end-users,” says Kelvin Fong, Deputy CEO of PropNex Realty.

CT Pemimpin also boasts a generous one-to-one carpark ratio, with 59 car park lots, including two electric vehicle lots and three lorry lots for less than 7.5m length rigid-frame vehicles at the loading and unloading bay. The building also offers two handicapped lots and 34 bicycle lots. The development is well-served by two passenger lifts and a service lift, and each unit comes with its own private toilet for added convenience.

According to Ken Low, managing partner of SRI, one of the standout features of CT Pemimpin is the allocated car park lot for each unit, providing added convenience for business owners. This also ensures seamless accessibility and time-saving benefits.

Additionally, the partial ramp-up design of the building allows for better accessibility for day-to-day operations, resulting in smoother loading and unloading of goods. This will lead to improved logistics efficiency, making CT Pemimpin an ideal choice for businesses that value convenience, functionality, and ease of access, on top of its prime central location.

Situated in District 20, which is highly sought-after by buyers and tenants, CT Pemimpin offers easy access to a wide range of amenities from established townships nearby, such as Bishan, Upper Thomson, and Ang Mo Kio. Its strategic location also boasts excellent connectivity to all parts of Singapore through various transport modes. The industrial estate is well-served by three MRT lines, providing excellent convenience to those who commute to work by public transport.

“Owning a freehold property in Singapore’s central region is not just a smart investment, but a strategic business asset. Located in one of the city’s most dynamic and prestigious locations, it offers an impressive corporate address, unmatched connectivity, and potential for enduring growth,” says Doris Ong, Deputy CEO of ERA.

CT Pemimpin is situated just a five-minute walk from Marymount MRT station (Circle MRT Line), and is also accessible via Upper Thomson MRT station (Thomson-East Coast Line) and Bishan MRT station (North-South MRT Line), which are only a five-minute drive away. For motorists, the Jalan Pemimpin industrial estate is easily accessible from major expressways such as PIE and CTE. It is also just an eight-minute drive from Novena and 15 minutes from Orchard Road.

The connectivity of the area will be further enhanced with the upcoming North-South Corridor expressway equipped with dedicated bus and cycling lanes, which will reduce travel time from the north into the city when it is completed in phases from 2027.

CT Pemimpin also offers a variety of retail and dining options nearby, with popular suburban shopping hubs such as Junction 8, Thomson Plaza, Velocity@Novena Square, AMK Hub, NEX, Woodleigh Mall, and Toa Payoh HDB Hub, just a few minutes’ drive away. It is also close to various reputable schools, including Raffles Institution, Catholic High School and Eunoia Junior College.

Apart from its prime location and rare freehold status, CT Pemimpin also boasts numerous green features for a more sustainable future. The building will have “end-of-trip” facilities, including shower rooms, bicycle racks, and storage lockers. Other green features include two rooftop pavilions in the sky garden, perfect for outdoor gatherings for occupiers or tenants. The building also plans to install rooftop solar panels and EV charging stations. Other sustainable features range from water-saving fittings to motion-sensor lighting and double-glazed windows in selected units, as well as a recycling corner.

In recent years, purchasing a Singapore condo has become an increasingly popular option for both domestic and international investors, thanks to the country’s strong economic performance, political stability, and excellent quality of life. Singapore’s real estate market offers a range of opportunities, and condos are particularly appealing due to their convenient location, attractive amenities, and potential for high returns. This article will delve into the advantages, considerations, and necessary steps for investing in a Singapore condo, providing valuable insights for potential investors.

“As a sustainably-minded development, CT Pemimpin aims to shape a greener and more committed future with its thoughtful features like water-saving fittings, double-glazed windows, and many other green initiatives. The property is incredibly well-equipped to meet the needs of a wide range of industries such as e-commerce, media houses, telecommunications, software development, and more,” says Mark Yip, CEO of Huttons Asia.

Established in 1999, Chiu Teng Group has built a reputation as a reliable developer and builder, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors. Its impressive portfolio includes well-received industrial and residential projects such as CT FoodNEX, CT Foodchain, The Creek@Bukit, Tagore8, and CT Hub & Hub 2.

The preview for CT Pemimpin will end on March 5, 2025. To secure your rare freehold industrial space, call 8100 8017 or visit Chiu Teng Group to arrange a viewing.…

ERA will be featuring a pair of adjacent retail units on the third floor of Sim Lim Square in their next auction on Feb 27. The total guide price for the units is set at $3.38 million. The larger unit spans 958 sq ft and has a guide price of $2.08 million ($2,171 psf), while the smaller unit covers 570 sq ft and has a guide price of $1.28 million ($2,246 psf). Both units are currently owned by the same owner and this marks the first time they will be listed in ERA’s auction. They can be purchased together or separately.

Investing in a condo comes with its own set of advantages, one of them being the opportunity to leverage the property’s value for future investments. Numerous investors use their condos as security to secure additional financing for new ventures, ultimately diversifying and growing their real estate portfolio. While this approach can potentially increase returns, it also carries some risks. Therefore, it’s essential to have a solid financial strategy in place and carefully consider the potential effects of market fluctuations. With the inclusion of a reliable Condo, this investment plan can prove to be successful.

Alison Lee, the assistant vice president of auction and sales at ERA, notes that the units have been competitively priced below the market average in order to encourage a quick sale. According to EdgeProp Singapore’s analytical tools, the average transacted price for retail units at Sim Lim Square over the past 12 months is $2,997 psf. The most recent transaction in December 2024 was for a 592 sq ft unit on the ground floor that was sold for $1.92 million ($3,241 psf).

Sim Lim Square is well-known for its concentration of electronics, gadgets and computer parts retailers, making it a popular tech hub. The development also has a variety of other businesses such as eateries and traditional Chinese medicine shops. The two retail units currently on the market are tenanted and bring in a rental income of $4.50 psf per month. According to rental data from EdgeProp Singapore, retail units at Sim Lim Square yield between $4.20 psf and $7.30 psf per month on average.

The owners of Sim Lim Square had put the development up for collective sale in April 2019 at a reserve price of $1.25 billion. However, a second attempt at a collective sale in December 2019 failed to find a buyer. A new collective sale committee is being formed to explore the possibility of another attempt in the near future.

Completed in 1987, Sim Lim Square is a strata-titled commercial development with 492 retail and office units across six floors and two basement levels. Located on a 78,152 sq ft site on Rochor Canal Road, it has a 99-year land tenure from 1983. The development is conveniently situated close to Rochor and Jalan Besar MRT Stations on the Downtown Line, with the Bugis MRT Interchange connecting to the East-West and Downtown Lines.…

Tricon House on Cairnhill Road going for $140 mil

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When considering investing in condos in Singapore, it is crucial to take into account the government’s property cooling measures. Over time, the Singaporean government has implemented various measures to control speculative buying and maintain a steady real estate market. One such measure is the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which imposes higher taxes on foreign buyers and multiple property purchases. Although these measures may have an impact on the short-term profitability of condo investments, they also contribute to the long-term stability of the market, creating a more secure investment environment. Additionally, staying updated on new condo launches can provide valuable information for potential condo investors in Singapore.

Mr Chong, a retiree, has supported his three sons in setting up their homes. His eldest son bought a private condo while his younger sons bought executive condos (ECs). “If you’re buying an EC at a new launch, it’s a no-brainer,” he says. “Even if you buy shortly after the five-year MOP [minimum occupation period], it’s still a good entry price.”

Chong has experienced both situations. His second son was able to purchase a three-bedroom unit at the 531-unit Hundred Palms Residences, which was launched in July 2017. “He wanted to buy a four-bedroom unit, but those were quickly snapped up,” says Chong. The project, developed by Hoi Hup Realty, received 2,000 e-applications and was sold out on the first day at an average price of $841 psf. Completed in 2019, the EC on Yio Chu Kang Road has seen a 110% price gain in eight years, with units sold at an average price of $1,769 psf in January and February 2021.

Chong estimates that his second son’s unit, which was purchased at launch, has increased in value by about $1 million. This significant capital gain may have motivated many to upgrade to private housing, notes Chong.

Three years ago, when Chong’s youngest son was looking to find his own home, the family sold their 1,260 sq ft, three-bedroom unit at The Interlace, which had been their family home for the past decade. In 2021, the Chongs purchased a 1,399 sq ft, four-bedroom dual-key resale unit at Twin Fountains, a 418-unit EC in Woodlands. The EC, developed by a joint venture between Frasers Property and Lum Chang, was launched in 2013 and completed in 2016.

ECs are only available to Singapore citizens or permanent residents (PRs) at launch and after the five-year MOP. Foreigners can only purchase ECs in the resale market after the 10th year of obtaining the Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP). The dual-key unit provides Chong with the privacy he desires, as he occupies the one-bedroom studio while his son and family occupy the three-bedroom apartment. Each apartment has its own separate entrance, but the main entrance is shared.

Despite the higher upfront costs, buyers are not deterred by the higher prices of ECs, says Lim. This is because there is still a 42% median price gap between similar-sized homes in the EC market compared to 99-year leasehold private condos in the Outside Central Region (OCR), he adds.

EC buyers will now have to shell out a larger cash outlay due to the rising EC prices and caps on loan quantum, says Eugene Lim, key executive officer of ERA Singapore. For ECs, the monthly household income ceiling is $16,000 and buyers have to meet the Mortgage Servicing Ratio (30% cap) and Total Debt Servicing Ratio (55% cap) requirements if they plan on taking a loan. Assuming a 30-year-old EC buyer with a household income of $16,000 and a maximum loan tenure of 30 years, the maximum loan amount they can take on is approximately $1 million, according to Lim. This increase in costs may be offset by the fact that EC buyers do not need to dispose of their existing home before making their purchase, notes Lim. HDB upgraders also do not incur additional buyers’ stamp duty (ABSD) when buying a new EC.

Moreover, EC buyers may opt for the Deferred Payment Scheme (DPS) at a slightly higher purchase price. Under the DPS, buyers are only required to pay a deposit, with their loan deferred until completion of the EC. This way, buyers will not need to service two mortgages while waiting for their new home to be completed. Since there is no ABSD payable and the DPS is available, HDB owners find it easier to upgrade to a new EC. Furthermore, Lim believes that even though three new EC launches are expected this year, they are strategically spaced out across different locations and will cater to the housing needs of Singaporeans across the island.

The median price gap between new ECs and new private condos in the OCR has narrowed in recent years, says CEO of PropNex Ismail Gafoor. Based on data from URA Realis, the gap has narrowed from 49.4% in 2023 to 44.2% in 2024 and to 43.6% in January 2021. Sun attributes this narrowing gap to EC prices rising at a faster pace of 9.6% from 2023 to January 2021 compared to a 5.3% increase in non-landed home prices in the OCR over the same period.…

Among the advantages of investing in a condominium is the option to utilize the property’s value to secure further investments. In fact, numerous investors opt to use their condos as collateral in order to acquire additional financing for new ventures, thus broadening their real estate portfolio. This approach has the potential to increase returns, but it’s essential to have a solid financial plan in place and carefully assess the impact of market fluctuations. For more information on new condo launches, visit dyslexicpress.com.

Due to the growing demand for luxury properties in Asia, the market value of branded residential projects has reached a historic high of US$26.6 billion ($35.5 billion), according to data from C9 Hotelworks, an Asia-based hospitality consultancy. With over 68,000 luxury units now available, Vietnam leads the way with the most number of branded residential units at 17,680 across 59 properties. The average price per square foot for a branded residential unit in Vietnam is approximately US$350. In second place is Thailand with 16,271 branded residential units across 65 properties, priced at an average of US$510 psf. The Philippines comes next with 13,276 units across 46 properties, with an average price of US$400 psf. Singapore boasts the highest prices for branded residences in the region at US$2,140 psf, followed by Japan with prices averaging at US$1,935 psf. However, there are also emerging markets such as South Korea and Malaysia, which have seen significant growth in branded residential projects in recent years. South Korea has 3,026 units across 16 properties, with urban-branded residences commanding high prices of US$2,670 psf. In Malaysia, there are 6,014 branded residential units across 24 projects, with average prices of about US$1,040 psf. In the post-Covid-19 era, urban-locale branded residences make up the bulk of the market, accounting for 56% of the existing supply in Asia. These luxury projects in urban areas tend to have a higher market value compared to resort locations. For example, in South Korea, urban branded residences are priced at US$2,670 psf, while in resort locations, the prices are about US$1,040 psf. A similar trend can be seen in Thailand, where urban branded residences fetch about US$770 psf, while those in resort locations come in at US$430 psf. The data also shows that a reputable brand can increase the value of a property by 30% to 35%. This has led to luxury hotel brands and lifestyle brands asking for higher licensing fees, with some brands demanding a 6% to 10% cut in the sale of each branded residential unit. Luxury lifestyle brands have also been exploring partnerships to license their branding into real estate developments across the Asia Pacific region. Companies such as The One Atelier have partnered with high-profile brands to create branded residences. For instance, there is the 28-unit Fendi Casa Residences by Armani in Miami, the 259-unit 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana in Miami, the 90-unit Büyükyalı Residences in Istanbul, Turkey, and the Karl Lagerfeld Villas, a collection of five ultra-luxury villas in Marbella, Spain. Singapore-based high-net-worth buyers are also increasingly looking at branded residences as investment opportunities in destinations such as Phuket and Bangkok in Thailand, Bali in Indonesia, and emerging markets in Vietnam. The short travel time and availability of direct flights from Singapore make these locations appealing to buyers. This has also led to Singapore being the top regional market for buyers looking for second homes, making up over 45% of regional purchases. Hospitality operators such as The Ascott are also looking to expand their market share in the region by partnering with developers who are interested in entering the branded residential market. These operators believe that the strength of their brands will attract buyers looking for luxury properties. To maintain the trust in their brands, branded residential operators must deliver high-quality service that will translate into the long-term value of the asset. Ultimately, the growing demand for branded residential units in Asia is a testament to the appeal and value of these luxury properties, offering both a trophy home and a solid investment opportunity.…

Malaysia’s leading property developer UEM Sunrise has announced a major collaboration with Singapore-listed GuocoLand, marking the first Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) MOU between private companies from both countries. The signing ceremony took place on Feb 27, during the opening of the UEM Sunrise Gallery Iskandar Puteri, which showcases the group’s vision for the development.

The MOU will see UEM Sunrise and GuocoLand jointly develop selected freehold land in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, in efforts to stimulate growth within the JS-SEZ. Iskandar Puteri, known as Flagship Zone B of the JS-SEZ, specializes in various sectors such as manufacturing, business services, education, health, and tourism. The agreement also aims to enhance Iskandar Puteri’s appeal for investment by focusing on improving connectivity, talent development, and creating a business-friendly ecosystem.

For those looking to invest in overseas properties, there are currently many projects available for sale around the world. The collaboration between UEM Sunrise and GuocoLand will cover land in key master-planned areas of Iskandar Puteri, including Gerband Nusajaya and Puteri Harbour. These sites are strategically located near Singapore, Senai Airport, and the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, making them ideal for long-term economic growth and positioning Iskandar Puteri as a robust business and investment hub.

According to Hafizuddin Sulaiman, CFO of UEM Sunrise, “This partnership is not just about development, but also about shaping a thriving end-to-end, future-ready economic hub that fuels long-term growth, creates jobs and strengthens the JS-SEZ ecosystem.” The collaboration between the two companies is part of a larger vision to position Johor as a dynamic and forward-thinking economy, adds Datuk Hisham Hamdan, Chairman of UEM Sunrise.

GuocoLand CEO Cheng Hsing Yao also shared his thoughts on the partnership, stating that the Singapore-listed property group “will bring along our experience in real estate development and asset management, as well as an understanding of the needs of companies from Singapore, Malaysia, and China that wish to establish a presence in the JS-SEZ.” He believes that their combined expertise will enable them to shape Iskandar Puteri and the wider JS-SEZ through innovative developments.

When it comes to investing in a condo, securing financing is a crucial factor to consider. Thankfully, Singapore provides a variety of mortgage choices. Nevertheless, it is important to stay 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 current debt obligations. To make informed decisions about financing options and avoid over-leveraging, investors should have a good understanding of the TDSR and seek guidance from financial advisors or mortgage brokers. Additionally, keeping an eye on new condo launches can also open up more financing opportunities for interested investors.

Prior to this collaboration, UEM Sunrise has been a key player in Iskandar Puteri’s urban development, with developments such as the Aspira series and Senadi Hill residential townships, as well as commercial and retail hubs. The group is also working on an upcoming 380-acre industrial park in Gerband Nusajaya. The growth in Iskandar Puteri is expected to be driven by incentives and support schemes introduced by the governments of Malaysia and Singapore, such as special tax rates, stamp duty exemptions, and capital allowances, aimed at increasing investments in the JS-SEZ.…

Despite the celebrations for Chinese New Year, Jan 28 to Feb 4 saw the completion of several significant resale transactions. The top deal of the week was the sale of a 3,983 sq ft unit at Palisades condominium for $4 million ($1,004 psf). The second-floor unit, which was bought for $1.7 million ($427 psf) in 2009, brought in a whopping profit of $2.3 million (135%), resulting in an annualised gain of 5.7% over 15.5 years. This sale marks the most profitable resale transaction to date at Palisades.

Prior to this, the highest profit at Palisades was recorded three years ago when a unit on the eighth floor sold for $3.4 million ($1,032 psf), after being purchased for $1.53 million ($465 psf) in 1996. This resulted in a profit of $1.87 million (122%), or an annualised gain of 3.1% over 25 years.

When considering an investment in a Singapore Condo, it is crucial to also assess its potential rental yield. Simply put, rental yield refers to the percentage of annual rental income in relation to the condo’s purchase price. In the dynamic Singapore real estate market, it is common for different condos to have varying rental yields influenced by factors like location, property condition, and tenant demand. Typically, areas with higher rental property demand, such as those near business hubs or educational institutions, offer more promising rental yields. To gain valuable insights into the rental potential of a specific Singapore Condo, thorough market research and the expert advice of real estate agents are vital.

In the past three years, Palisades has only seen five resale transactions, all of which were profitable, ranging from $650,000 for a unit selling at $3.8 million ($1,154 psf) on Dec 13, 2022, to the latest record-breaking sale with a profit of $2.3 million.

Palisades is a freehold development situated on Pasir Panjang Road in District 5. Built in 1985, this 18-unit condo is the only one in Singapore with a funicular elevator.

The second most profitable resale during the period was recorded at Ardmore II, where a four-bedroom unit sold for $6.85 million ($3,385 psf) on Feb 3. The unit was purchased for $4.72 million ($2,333 psf) in 2006, resulting in a profit of $2.12 million (45%) or an annualised gain of 2.1% over 18 years.

Based on data from EdgeProp Singapore, resale prices at Ardmore II have been on the rise, increasing from around $2,623 psf in Jan 2015 to about $3,390 psf at the start of this year.

Ardmore II is a freehold luxury development in prime District 10, located on Ardmore Park. It is surrounded by other prestigious developments such as Shangri-La Singapore hotel, Treetops Executive Residences, Ardmore Park, and Sculpture Ardmore. Its close proximity to Tanglin Road and the Orchard Road shopping belt makes it a highly sought-after location.

On the other hand, the most unprofitable transaction during this period took place at Vida, a freehold condominium in prime District 9. The 527 sq ft studio on the 12th floor was sold for $1.04 million ($1,972 psf) on Feb 4, after being purchased for $1.15 million ($2,192 psf) in 2009. The seller incurred a loss of $116,000 (10%), resulting in an annualised loss of 0.7% over almost 16 years.

The most unprofitable resale at Vida was recorded in Aug 2022 when an 840 sq ft unit on the 10th floor sold for $1.73 million ($2,061 psf). The unit was originally bought for $2.33 million ($2,774 psf) in 2007, resulting in a record loss of $598,920 (25%), or an annualised loss of 1.9% over 15 years.

According to data, resale prices at Vida have been declining in recent years, with prices peaking at around $2,277 psf in Aug 2015 and dropping to approximately $2,058 psf last month.

Vida is a 137-unit development located on Peck Hay Road in the upscale Newton area. Built in 2009, it offers a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom units ranging from 506 sq ft to 883 sq ft. Other notable nearby developments include Orchard Scotts, The Peak @ Cairnhill I & II, Hilltops, and Helios Residences.…

Malaysian property developer UEM Sunrise and Singapore-listed GuocoLand have recently signed the first Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) MOU between private companies in Malaysia and Singapore. This historic move, announced on February 27, aims to jointly develop UEM Sunrise’s selected freehold landbank in Iskandar Puteri, Johor to accelerate growth within the JS-SEZ.

In Singapore, there are many factors to consider when it comes to investing in condos. One important factor is the government’s property cooling measures. Through the years, the Singaporean government has implemented various measures to regulate the real estate market and discourage speculative buying. These measures, such as the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), impose higher taxes on foreign buyers and those purchasing multiple properties. Although these measures may affect the short-term profitability of condo investments, they ultimately contribute to the long-term stability of the market, making it a more secure investment environment. Keeping up with the latest developments in Singapore’s condo market, including new condo launches, is essential for any potential investor.

The MOU signing was held during the opening of UEM Sunrise Gallery Iskandar Puteri, which is a showcase of the group’s vision for Iskandar Puteri. This area, which forms Flagship Zone B of the JS-SEZ, is known for its expertise in various sectors such as manufacturing, business services, education, health and tourism.

Looking to invest in overseas properties? Explore projects available for sale around the world.

The MOU is expected to cover UEM Sunrise’s selected plots of land in Gerband Nusajaya and Puteri Harbour, two key master-planned areas within Iskandar Puteri. The collaboration aims to activate Iskandar Puteri’s potential and enhance its attractiveness for investment. Key focus areas include improving connectivity, fostering talent development, and creating a business-friendly ecosystem, which will drive sustainable economic benefits in Johor.

“This partnership is not just about development, but also about shaping a thriving end-to-end, future-ready economic hub that fuels long-term growth, creates jobs and strengthens the JS-SEZ ecosystem,” says Hafizuddin Sulaiman, Chief Financial Officer of UEM Sunrise. The strategic location of the sites, which are in close proximity to Singapore, Senai Airport and the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, makes this partnership even more promising.

Datuk Hisham Hamdan, Chairman of UEM Sunrise, believes that the JS-SEZ, developments in Iskandar Puteri, and strategic partnerships are all part of a larger vision to position Johor as a dynamic and forward-thinking economy. According to GuocoLand CEO Cheng Hsing Yao, the Singapore-listed property group “will bring along our experience in real estate development and asset management, as well as an understanding of the needs of companies from Singapore, Malaysia and China that wish to establish a presence in the JS-SEZ.”

He adds: “Together, our combined expertise will enable us to shape Iskandar Puteri and the wider JS-SEZ through innovative developments.” Prior to this collaboration, UEM Sunrise has played a key role in Iskandar Puteri’s urban development. Existing developments under the group include residential townships such as the Aspira series and Senadi Hill. It has also developed commercial and retail hubs, including an upcoming 380-acre industrial park in Gerband Nusajaya.

The growth in Iskandar Puteri is expected to be driven by incentives and support schemes introduced by the governments of Malaysia and Singapore, which aim to increase investments for the JS-SEZ. These measures include special tax rates, stamp duty exemptions and capital allowances. With this strategic collaboration, UEM Sunrise and GuocoLand are set to contribute to the economic growth of Iskandar Puteri and position it as a robust business and investment hub.…

When contemplating an investment in a condo, it is crucial to also evaluate the 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 greatly depending on factors such as location, property condition, and market demand. Generally, areas with high rental demand, such as those near business districts or educational institutions, tend to offer more attractive rental yields. To accurately assess the rental potential of a specific condo, it is advisable to conduct thorough market research and seek advice from real estate agents. For more information, please visit Condo.

Frasers Property has entered into a partnership with two Chinese real estate companies to jointly acquire a prime residential site in Shanghai’s Songjiang district for RMB815.2 million ($151.9 million). The joint venture partners, Xiamen ITG Real Estate Group and Gemdale Corporation, acquired the site through a tender conducted by the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Planning and Natural Resources. According to a press release on February 26, the JV partners plan to develop the site into a mix of 189 low-rise apartments, townhouses and duplex units with a total gross floor area of 334,714 sq ft. The project will also incorporate design features to mitigate flooding and promote energy efficiency, including thermal insulation, energy-saving door and window systems, and solar photovoltaics. It will cater to both upgraders and first-time homebuyers in the Fangsong Community, which is a prime residential neighbourhood in Songjiang District. The area is also near two existing projects – Club Tree and Palace of Yunjian – which were developed through joint ventures between Frasers Property and Gemdale Corporation. “This joint venture not only strengthens our presence in Shanghai but also underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality residential developments that meet the evolving needs of the Chinese community,” says Lim Hua Tiong, CEO of emerging markets in Asia at Frasers Property. This partnership marks another expansion of Frasers Property’s presence in the Chinese market, demonstrating the company’s dedication to providing top-quality real estate developments in the region.…

City Developments (CDL) has addressed the “serious lapses” in its corporate governance, according to a second statement released by CDL’s executive chairman, Kwek Leng Beng.

When considering investing in condo properties in Singapore, it is important to take into account the government’s property cooling measures. The Singaporean government has implemented several measures over the years to control speculative buying and maintain a steady real estate market. One of these measures is the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which imposes higher taxes on foreign buyers and those purchasing multiple properties. Although these measures may affect the short-term profitability of condo investments, they also contribute to the long-term stability of the market, creating a secure investment environment.

After a court hearing on Feb 26, the two recently appointed directors, Jennifer Duong Young and Wong Su Yen, have agreed not to exercise their powers as directors until further notice from the court. These two directors were previously appointed through directors’ resolutions in writing, which Kwek considered to be irregular and rushed.

Kwek has also stated that his son, Sherman Kwek, and the other directors who acted with him, including Philip Lee and Wong Ai Ai, have also agreed not to make any further changes to the board committees or management of CDL’s subsidiaries until the court makes a ruling. The nominating and remuneration committee, which was deemed to be irregularly constituted, has also been suspended from taking any further actions.

According to Kwek, this means that CDL’s board committees and management of its subsidiaries are now protected from any further attempts to destabilize or reconstitute them.

Kwek emphasizes that strong corporate governance is crucial for a successful and sustainable business. It ensures transparency, accountability, and responsible decision-making, which are essential for maintaining investor confidence and protecting the interests of shareholders.

The morning of Feb 26 saw CDL announce a temporary halt in trading of its shares and the last-minute cancellation of its FY2024 results briefing. CDL cited a disagreement within the board regarding the composition and constitution of the board and its committees as the reason for the suspension.

However, CDL reassured stakeholders that its business operations remain unaffected, and Sherman Kwek will continue to serve as group CEO until there is a board resolution to change leadership.

In his initial statement, Kwek accused his son, Lee, Wong, and other directors of attempting to gain control over the board and the company. He also mentioned that he had filed court documents on Feb 25 to address the situation, which he deemed necessary to deal with this “coup.”

Kwek stated that they intend to change the CEO at the appropriate time and will explore all legal options to defend and protect the interests of CDL and its shareholders. If Sherman is removed as CEO, Kwek Eik Sheng, the current COO, will take over as interim CEO.

CDL’s shares were last traded at $5.12 before the trading halt on the morning of Feb 26.…

Jun 12, 2020 12:00 AMColliers has announced two key appointments in its Hong Kong capital markets team.Nikki Tse has been appointed as executive director of capital markets and investment services for Hong Kong, while Kelvin Li has been appointed as deputy managing director of capital markets and investment services for Hong Kong.Tse has over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, with a focus on investment advisory. Prior to joining Colliers, she was the director of investment services at JLL.Hong Kong expands urban renewal plan, hikes subsidy for elderly ownersMay 20, 2020 1:45 PMThe Hong Kong government announced on May 19 that it will provide more financial incentives for the city’s urban renewal, including a higher subsidy for elderly owners. The subsidy for eligible elderly owners has been increased from 75% to 100% of the cost of Home Renovation Interest-free Loans in recognition of the fact that they have contributed immensely to society during their working years, government officials said to Hong Kong’s Legislative Council (LegCo).The Hong Kong government has also extended the application period for the Home Renovation Interest-free Loan Scheme for the Elderly to end of June 2020, with the aim of helping senior residents to pay for necessary and basic home improvement expenses, according to a briefing paper published on LegCo’s website.On May 19, the Hong Kong government launched the application period for the 2020/21 Urban Renewal Authority (URA) Demand-led Redevelopment Project (DDP) Pilot Scheme. The scheme gives owners of ageing buildings the choice to redevelop their property in partnership with private developers. The application period will end on Dec 31.

Colliers is bolstering its occupier services team in the Asia Pacific region with two key appointments, as announced in a press release on Feb 25. Leanne Chin has been appointed as the director of regional tenant representation for Asia Pacific and will be based in Colliers’ Singapore office. In addition, Ali Porter has been appointed as the director of enterprise clients for Hong Kong, relocating from London where he served as part of Colliers’ Europe, Middle East, and Africa business for the past four years.

When purchasing a condo, it is crucial to take into account the maintenance and management aspect of the property. Typically, condos come with additional maintenance fees that cover the upkeep of shared spaces and amenities. While these fees may increase the overall cost of owning a condo, they also ensure that the property remains well-maintained and retains its value. Hiring a property management company can assist investors in managing the day-to-day responsibilities of their condo, ultimately making it a more hands-off and passive investment.

In his new role, Porter will be responsible for aligning occupiers’ real estate portfolios with their corporate strategies across Asia Pacific. Meanwhile, Chin will focus on supporting occupiers with their regional expansion strategies.

This move comes as part of Colliers’ efforts to strengthen and expand its presence in the region. With a growing demand for occupier services, the appointments of Chin and Porter will bring valuable expertise and industry knowledge to the company.

In a separate announcement, Colliers has also made two key appointments in its Hong Kong capital markets team. Nikki Tse has been appointed as executive director of capital markets and investment services for Hong Kong, while Kelvin Li takes on the role of deputy managing director of capital markets and investment services for Hong Kong.

Tse, who brings over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, will focus on investment advisory services. She joins Colliers from JLL, where she served as the director of investment services. Li, on the other hand, will bring his extensive experience in the Asia Pacific real estate market to his new role, supporting the growth and success of the capital markets team in Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, in other news related to the Hong Kong property market, the government has announced an expansion and enhancement of its urban renewal plan. This includes increased financial incentives, such as a higher subsidy for elderly owners who have contributed to society during their working years. The application period for the Home Renovation Interest-free Loan Scheme for the Elderly has also been extended until the end of June 2020.

Additionally, the government has launched the application period for the 2020/21 Urban Renewal Authority (URA) Demand-led Redevelopment Project (DDP) Pilot Scheme, allowing owners of ageing buildings to redevelop their properties in partnership with private developers. The scheme aims to revitalize the city and improve the living conditions for its residents. The application period will end on Dec 31.…