Showing posts with label Property. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Property. Show all posts

Eleven@Holland Bank Sale

Been seeing advertisements about a back sale for Eleven@Holland.

Read an article which reported that all 48 semi-detached houses at Eleven@Holland in District 10, Singapore, were sold in three days. 

Despite the average price tag of $3.7 million per unit, one buyer purchased 10 units at once. The project, which had a 99-year leasehold from 2010, went into liquidation last November. The houses have five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a private lift, and two private parking lots. The average strata area is 3,735 sq ft. The buyer, despite the 30% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty, believed the purchase was worthwhile.

The Botany at Dairy Farm: A Blossoming Residential Haven Amidst Nature's Abundance

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Singapore's Dairy Farm Nature Park, The Botany stands as a testament to the harmonious integration of modern living and the serenity of nature. The Botany at Dairy Farm is an exciting new residential development located along Dairy Farm Walk, Dairy Farm Heights, and Dairy Farm Lane in the Bukit Panjang Planning Area. Developed by Sim Lian JV (Dairy Farm) Pte. Ltd., this project offers a unique opportunity to live in a tranquil haven surrounded by lush greenery. With its convenient location, exceptional amenities, and thoughtfully designed living spaces, The Botany at Dairy Farm is set to be a highly sought-after address in Singapore.

Location and Connectivity: Situated next to an upcoming shopping mall, The Botany at Dairy Farm offers unparalleled convenience. The mall will feature a range of shops, restaurants, a supermarket, food court, and childcare center, providing residents with all the essentials just a stone's throw away. The development is also within 1km from the Hillview MRT Station on the Downtown Line, ensuring easy access to public transportation. In addition, cycling and pedestrian networks will connect The Botany to the surrounding areas, offering active mobility options for residents.

Design and Architecture: Upon entering The Botany at Dairy Farm, residents and guests will be greeted by a serene and timeless environment. The design of the development maximizes the site's natural beauty, incorporating elements that seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape. The arrival deck is bright and inviting, adorned with lush greenery, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Open spaces and clever architecture allow for ample natural light, creating an airy and tranquil ambiance.

Resort-Like Facilities: The Botany at Dairy Farm offers a range of resort-style amenities designed to enhance residents' quality of life. The landscape deck features soft form trees that create a recreational holiday experience. Residents can enjoy swimming in the clear waters of the 50m lap pool or relax on the poolside lounges while taking in the breathtaking views. The standalone grand clubhouse features a co-working space and a gymnasium, providing opportunities for work and exercise. Family-inspired BBQ and dining pavilions offer spaces for social gatherings and celebrations.

Proximity to Nature: The Botany at Dairy Farm is ideally situated at the foot of Dairy Farm Nature Park, offering residents a sanctuary amidst nature. With its close proximity to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Zhenghua Nature Park, and Little Guilin, residents can easily access and explore Singapore's most forested areas. The communal facilities within The Botany at Dairy Farm, including a multi-purpose clubhouse, a tennis court, and a sundeck, allow residents to fully embrace and appreciate the natural surroundings.

Convenience and Lifestyle: Beyond its natural splendor, The Botany at Dairy Farm is also conveniently located near prestigious schools and retail malls. Families will appreciate the presence of renowned schools such as CHIJ Our Lady Queen of Peace and Bukit Panjang Primary School within 1km of the development. The nearby shopping malls, hawker centers, and entertainment options provide residents with a wide range of choices for dining, shopping, and leisure activities.

Conclusion: The Botany at Dairy Farm presents a unique opportunity to live amidst tranquility and lush greenery while enjoying the convenience of urban amenities. With its thoughtfully designed living spaces, resort-like facilities, and proximity to nature, this development offers a truly exceptional living experience. Whether you seek a serene retreat or a vibrant community, The Botany at Dairy Farm is poised to fulfill your desires. Discover the beauty and serenity of this residential haven and embark on a new chapter of refined living.






Teneriffe: A Tranquil Cluster Home Oasis in Bukit Timah

Nestled in the prestigious Bukit Timah area of Singapore, Teneriffe is a remarkable cluster housing development that offers residents a serene and luxurious living experience. With its exquisite design, desirable location, and an array of nearby amenities, Teneriffe has become a sought-after choice for those seeking a spacious and exclusive home in a tranquil environment. In this article, we will explore the key features of Teneriffe, including its launch date, developer, and the nearby amenities that make it an exceptional place to call home.

Teneriffe was developed by Teneriffe Development Pte Ltd and is a cluster housing development with 99 years leasehold. The development was launched in 2004 and has since garnered much attention for its distinctive architecture and thoughtfully designed homes.

Exquisite Design and Spacious Living: Teneriffe offers a range of cluster terrace houses that are designed to provide residents with generous living spaces and a sense of exclusivity. The homes are thoughtfully laid out across multiple levels, allowing for seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Each unit features contemporary designs, high ceilings, and large windows that fill the interiors with natural light, creating an airy and inviting ambiance.

Tranquil Environment and Serene Surroundings: One of the standout features of Teneriffe is its tranquil environment. Situated amidst lush greenery and nestled in a peaceful residential enclave, residents can enjoy a serene and private living experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The development is surrounded by nature reserves, parks, and recreational areas, offering residents ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Nearby Amenities: Teneriffe boasts a strategic location that provides residents with easy access to a range of amenities and conveniences. Here are some notable amenities in the vicinity:

Educational Institutions: Families with children will appreciate the proximity to reputable schools such as Methodist Girls School and Nanyang Primary School, ensuring quality education options for the young ones

Shopping and Dining: Teneriffe is located near several shopping malls and dining establishments, including Guthrie House, Jelita, Bukit Timah Plaza and Coronation Shopping Centre. Residents can enjoy a wide variety of retail options, entertainment, and dining experiences just a short distance away from their homes.

Recreational Facilities: Nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts will find themselves in close proximity to popular recreational areas such as Rail Corridor. These green spaces offer opportunities for outdoor activities, jogging, cycling, and leisurely strolls amidst nature.

Transport Connectivity: Teneriffe is well-connected to major expressways and public transportation networks, providing residents with easy access to different parts of the island. The nearby MRT stations and bus stops ensure convenient commuting options for both work and leisure.

Conclusion: Teneriffe presents a unique living opportunity in the heart of Bukit Timah, offering residents a tranquil oasis with luxurious cluster terrace homes. With its thoughtful design, serene surroundings, and proximity to various amenities, this development is an excellent choice for those seeking a harmonious blend of exclusivity and convenience. Whether you are looking for a spacious family home or a peaceful retreat, Teneriffe is a place where you can truly embrace the joys of luxurious living amidst nature's embrace.



Eleven at Holland (Eleven@Holland): A Haven of Luxury and Tranquility in Singapore's Cluster Home Landscape

Singapore's real estate market offers a diverse range of housing options to cater to the varied preferences of homeowners. Among these options, cluster homes have gained popularity for their unique blend of privacy, exclusivity, and spaciousness. In this article, we will explore the allure of cluster homes, with a particular focus on Eleven at Holland, an exceptional development that exemplifies luxury living in Singapore's cluster home segment.

Understanding Cluster Homes: Cluster homes are a distinctive housing concept that combines the best elements of landed living with the convenience of condominium amenities. These homes are typically situated within a gated community and feature individual units that share common facilities such as gardens, pools, and security services. Cluster homes offer a compelling alternative for those seeking a spacious and private living environment without the maintenance responsibilities of traditional landed properties.

Eleven at Holland: Exclusivity and Serenity Redefined:

Prime Location: Nestled within the prestigious Holland Road enclave, Eleven at Holland offers residents the best of both worlds - a serene and green environment while being in close proximity to the city's vibrant amenities. The development is strategically positioned to provide convenient access to renowned schools, dining destinations, shopping malls, and recreational facilities.

Architectural Excellence: Eleven at Holland stands as a testament to architectural excellence, seamlessly blending contemporary design with natural elements. The cluster homes feature modern facades, clean lines, and harmonious landscaping, creating a visually appealing and cohesive community.

Spacious and Thoughtfully Designed Homes: At Eleven at Holland, residents are treated to expansive living spaces designed to maximize comfort and functionality. The cluster homes offer generous floor plans with multiple levels, providing ample room for families to grow and thrive. With features like private gardens, roof terraces, and basement parking, each home is a testament to luxurious living.

Exclusive Amenities and Facilities: Residents of Eleven at Holland enjoy a range of exclusive amenities and facilities within the gated community. These include private gardens, swimming pools, fitness centers, and outdoor leisure spaces. The meticulously curated facilities cater to the needs of individuals and families, fostering a sense of community and providing ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation.

Privacy and Security: One of the key appeals of cluster homes is the heightened sense of privacy and security they offer. With gated access, 24/7 security, and controlled entry points, residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing their homes are protected. The close-knit community also fosters a sense of camaraderie among neighbors, promoting a safe and harmonious living environment.

Eleven at Holland epitomizes the allure of cluster homes in Singapore's real estate landscape. With its prime location, architectural excellence, spacious residences, exclusive amenities, and enhanced privacy, the development offers residents a truly exceptional living experience. Whether it's enjoying the tranquility of private gardens or taking advantage of the convenient proximity to urban conveniences, Eleven at Holland presents an ideal haven for those seeking a blend of luxury, privacy, and community living in Singapore's cluster home segment.




Who is Ng Teng Fong

Ng Teng Fong was a Singaporean businessman and philanthropist. He was the founder of Far East Organization, which is one of the largest private property developers and landlords in Singapore. Ng Teng Fong was known for his real estate development projects and was dubbed "The King of Orchard Road" for building malls such as Far East Plaza and Lucky Plaza along the shopping belt in Singapore. He passed away in 2010, but his legacy and business continue through his sons, Robert and Philip Ng, who now run Far East Organization.

Far East Organization is one of the largest private property developers and landlords in Singapore. The company has a diverse portfolio of real estate assets, including residential properties, hotels, shopping centers, and offices. Far East Organization also operates a range of businesses in the hospitality, retail, and healthcare sectors. The company's real estate development projects have had a significant impact on the built environment in Singapore and have helped shape the city-state's urban landscape. Far East Organization is known for its quality and innovative projects, as well as its commitment to sustainable development.

Far East Organization has developed many notable real estate projects in Singapore, some of which include:

Residences: Far East Organization has developed a number of residential properties, including luxury condominiums, apartments, and landed houses, such as The Azalea, The Oceanfront, The Wharf Residence, and many others.

Hotels: Far East Organization has a portfolio of hotels, including the InterContinental Singapore, the Pan Pacific Singapore, the Mandarin Orchard Singapore, and others.

Shopping Centers: Far East Organization has developed several popular shopping centers in Singapore, including the Far East Plaza, Lucky Plaza, The Centrepoint, and others.

Offices: Far East Organization has developed a number of office buildings, including the Far East Finance Building, and Far East Square.

These are just a few examples of Far East Organization's notable property developments. The company has a long history of delivering quality and innovative real estate projects, and its developments have had a significant impact on the built environment in Singapore.


The Complete Guide to Buying a Home in Singapore

Introduction: Why Buy a Condo?

The idea of owning a condo is appealing to many people. And the reasons for this are many. For starters, condos are relatively affordable, and they offer a lot of great facilities like pools, gyms, and playgrounds.

A condo is an ideal choice for people who want to live in a place where they can have a sense of community with other residents. Condos are also great for those who want to enjoy all the facilities that come with living in a condo.

Condominiums are typically more expensive than apartments because they offer more amenities and facilities. This is why condos are usually the first choice for people who want to live in Singapore, especially if they have children or pets.

Things You Must Know About Your Housing Options In Singapore

There are various housing options in Singapore. For people looking to own our buy a property,  you can select from a variety of choices. 

This includes:
1. HDB flats (in various shapes and sizes)
2. Apartments 
3. Condominiums
4 . Landed property

Renting a place is also possible though most landlords will typically rent out their places for a minimum of 12 months. The typical lease period will be 24 months or 2 years. 

Where Can I Find the Best Deals on Buying Property In Singapore?

PROPERTYGURU is the leading real estate portal in Singapore. They offer a wide range of listings for properties, from condominiums to bungalows and everything in between.

PROPERTYGURU is the leading real estate portal in Singapore. They offer a wide range of listings for properties, from condominiums to bungalows and everything in between. They are open 24/7 so you can find your dream home anytime, day or night.

The website also includes detailed information about each property such as location, size, price and amenities so you can make an informed decision before making an offer on your dream home.

***

ENJOY THIS OTHER POSTS BELOW


Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
What are REITs?
Buy Property or Invest in REITs?
Why Invest in REITs?
Singapore REITs - History and Regulations
Income Investing - REITs
REITs trading below Net Asset Value


Commodities/Gold/Silver
Buy Silver in Singapore
Is Gold and Silver Still a Buy?


Insurance
Cheapest Insurance in Singapore?
Can You Trust Your Financial Planner?


Popular Reads
How Much to Give for Chinese Weddings
How Much to Give for Church Weddings
A Brutally Honest Post

Top of News

Yahoo journalists in Singapore retrenched. 🇸🇬 This does not affect Singapore news coverage.

With rising property prices in Singapore, it was reported that HDB BTO flats are affordable for a couple with monthly household income of S$3,000. Not sure how the math works but it makes me wonder 🤔.  How many flats are available at that price range (SUPPLY) and how many couples with household income of S$3,000 there are who are property hunting (DEMAND)? Because while the math might be true, if there are only 10 of such affordable flats available but 1000 couples looking to buy....


New Property Launch: Is Artra worth the buy?

The showroom at ARTRA was packed on Saturday. I will not be surprised if the units are almost 80 of 90% sold.

Besides boasting a really good location just beside Redhill MRT, it also has quite a hefty price.

All units are selling for around $1,5xx psf.

Indicative price:-

Type A, 2 bedroom + Study, from S$1,19X,XXX
Type B, 3 bedroom, from S$1,59X,XXX
Type C, 3 bedroom + Study, from S$1,79X,XXX
Type D, 3 bedroom + Study + Private Lift Lobby, from S$2,09X,XXX


Mortgage Financing Made Easy: The ABCs of Taking a Housing Loan


By Property Buyer


We understand that comprehending the terms and contents of a loan contract, and finding the right mortgage that fits our lifestyle and financial capacity can be a challenge for borrowers, especially for first-timers. Thus this article attempts to shed some light about the process - from mortgage  selection, determining which interest rate serves you best, to meeting the requirements for the loan. The goal is to help you become aware of some of the advantages and disadvantages in selecting a particular loan package as well as to safeguard your pockets.

Establishing a good credit history

First of all, a loan can never be granted if you have a bad credit standing. The Credit Bureau in Singapore collects certain credit-related data, like all the credit  facilities a borrower has with the various financiers (but not the outstanding amount owed), and then makes the information accessible to credit providers on its membership list. The best way to obtain a good credit score is to pay your loan or credit cards on time. Late payments and defaulting on loan payments to any financial institution is bad because this will adversely impact your credit score. Having a low credit score will lock you out of loans with the best interest rates because the banks or lending institutions will decline your loan application. If you are planning to take a loan, then you should start creating a good credit history. The Bureau collects records of residents with a rolling 12-month credit facility. For closed accounts, the Bureau still shows the last 12 months history of the account before it was closed. On time payments normally gain a credit score of 12 'A'.


Owning multiple credit cards reflects weaker financial status

Most people think having many credit cards is an advantage. However, owning multiple credit cards can weaken your financial health as these plastics provide a false sense of financial strength, which is spending on borrowed money. Owning multiple credit cards in the absence of discipline usually ends up being highly indebted to banks. This means you should own fewer cards.

In addition, having excessive cards creates another disadvantage. This reduces the overall loan borrowing quantum of the borrower. Remember, that banks always compute your loan value based on your availed credit facilities against your monthly earnings. This means that even if you are not using the credit card, it has already reduced the amount of the loan you are allowed to avail for buying a new home.

Checking your credit score

You may personally request for a credit report from the Credit Bureau of Singapore. Find out if your credit facility and credit standing were correctly stated.

Finding the best house and location

We need to understand that finding the best house and location should be a house that meets our budget. Please do not avail a loan and buy a house that would make things difficult in the future. Live the kind of lifestyle your pockets can afford. Purchase a house with the amount of mortgage you find comfortable financing. The ideal way to select a loan and a house is to evaluate whether you still have the capacity to pay the monthly amortization when your financial situation becomes worse. To help you gauge if you can afford the rate and the monthly dues, you may want to use the debt-to-service ratio (DSR) formula based on a 30% affordability estimate as follows

DSR = Monthly Debt Service for Mortgage / Monthly Gross Household Income

In some aspects, some users of the DSR criticised it as a short-term measure of the borrower’s housing affordability. The discussion of other short- and long-term indicators of housing affordability, however, is beyond the scope of this article.

But you can still use the DSR formula for a variety of economic scenarios because in the course of the mortgage life, factors such as the rise or fall of the household income and the debt service normally take place. A good situation that could make use of the DSR is when you or one of your family members become unemployed, which means loss in earnings. You may also use the DSR when you see a pattern of increasing financial liability or debt service, which usually occur when there is a change or an increase in the financial market interest rates.

Overall financial liabilities

This is most important. You need to understand the impact of having too many loans or credit cards. You need to take into consideration the sum value of your total liabilities besides the DSR. One item to consider is the educational and medical expenses of the children or the entire family. Are you sending your children to school? Do you have any member of the family needing special medical attention? Yes or No, the answer directly affects your ability to pay the additional loan and the existing debts. In case of any future contingencies, you need to make sure you still have the capacity to finance the additional loan and pay the existing debts. The goal here is to avoid future contingencies forcing you to sell the house even at a very low price.

Searching for the right lending institution to finance your mortgage

It is the borrower’s duty and responsibility to perform some research about the market interest rates, and loan packages being offered by different banks or lending institutions. Market rates are constantly changing resulting in financing institutions constantly innovating their loan packages and products to meet the needs of borrowers. Find the best loan features that would fit your lifestyle and pocket.

The features of any mortgage package or product usually varies in terms of the rate. It could be offering a fixed rate, floating, or a combination. The combination of the fixed and floating rate is known as the hybrid loan. Some banks also offer interest-offset loans. To find out more about the various loan types, go here.

Selecting loan interest rates

The answer for this is really very simple. Find the rate you can afford to pay even in the presence of financial contingencies. Select a rate that would more or less provide affordable monthly payment throughout the life of the loan. It is best to think about this before committing to any loan because we should not be too confident or assume we always get the chance to refinance or reprice the loan during the course of the loan.

1. New regulations from MAS directly affects borrowers

We need to admit that the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) regulation factor is uncontrollable. We are not in control here. MAS has the right to change and implement new regulations that may or may not directly affect our loan. New rules may make the borrowing terms and conditions tighter or more relaxed. A good way to explain this was the October 6 2012 mandate of loan refinancing. MAS implemented a 35-year cap on loan tenures for new and refinanced loan packages.

2. Change in interest rates
As we all know, banks change the interest rates of their loans. Sometimes, we may find ourselves facing higher interest rates when we wish to refinance/reprice.

To help you understand the impact of the interest rate and the timing, please read the clearer explanation/ example below

Loan Package X has an interest rate of 1.5% for the first three years, and 1.7% thereafter.
Loan Package Y has an interest rate of 1.3% for the first three years, and 2.0% thereafter.

For example, if you decide to commit or take Loan Package Y now because it has a 1.3% rate, which is lower than the Loan Package X of 1.5%,  because you expect to reprice or refinance the loan after 3 years (if you can see the 1.3% is only good for the first 3 years), then you might be disappointed if you discover that after 3 years, the cheapest rate available is only 1.9%.

It is better to start with the Loan Package X with a 1.5% interest rate for the first 3 years, and then 1.7% thereafter. Even if you have the option to wait for a lower interest rate after the first 3 years, you still would be paying a higher interest rate during the wait.

What message are we trying to drive home here? We need to understand that choosing the best loan package require good understanding of the system, loan regulations, market, and the movements of  interest rates. Thus if you are confused aboutchoosing the ideal loan, then you should speak to a professional mortgage consultant, who will offer free advice. Contact one here.  The consultants at iCompareLoan also use free reports from Singapore's most advanced cloud-based home loan analysis system (exclusive to them) to help you select the most suitable loan.

Reputable lending institution

Make sure you choose a reliable lending or financial institution. There are times when some lenders implement the right for a margin call when valuations fall.

Legal help in understanding the loan packages

The bank sends a Letter of Offer to successful applicants. Therefore, we need to understand the content of the letter especially the attached terms and conditions of the loan package before signing on the dotted line. In case you do not understand some terms, please ask the bank to send you a document that explains the Letter of Offer in simple language. If it is still vague and you still have questions, please consult a lawyer.

Are you planning to make a loan in the midst of changing jobs?

It is highly recommended that you wait for the loan procedure to be completed before you change jobs because lending institutions have a minimum employment period requirement in your current job before granting loan approval.

Additional credit card or new loan

You need to understand that additional credit cards or taking new loans add to your total liability, which affects your borrowing eligibility and amount. It is recommended that you do not make any other loan or credit commitments before loan disbursement.

For example, you are applying for a housing loan but want to have a new car too. A week after you have received your approved in principle home loan notification, you finance a new car using a separate car loan. After you had taken home your new car, the lender or bank discovered you financed your car with a car loan. The only option left for the bank is to reduce the loan quantum because of the additional loan you just took for the car. The reduction of the housing loan amount makes it impossible for you to afford the house you want. The deal goes off and the 1% deposit you made would be forfeited. You lose more than you gain by taking both loans. It is important to patiently wait and understand how certain decisions about loans and other related services could affect your housing loan. If in doubt, turn to a Singapore home loan consultancy.

About Property Buyer
http://www.PropertyBuyer.com.sg/mortgage

We are a research-focused Singapore mortgage consultancy which helps you compare Singapore home loans either for new loans or refinancing. We use loan reports from Singapore's best loan analysis system (exclusive to us) athttp://www.icompareloan.com/consultant/ to serve our customers.

Our services are completely FREE to you as the banks pay us a referral fee upon loan disbursement.

SMS: (65) 9782 8606
Email: loans@PropertyBuyer.com.sg

Join us at Facebook:

Cash Out Home Equity Loans or HDB Flat as Collateral? Nope.

I learnt something new today.  That it is actually possible to take a cash out or credit facility on your home by refinancing it.  People can use this additional leverage when they have largely paid up property and wish to make use of the lower home mortgage rates to pay off either existing loans or even invest in other instruments (e.g. REITs) which might give a higher returns. '

These are quite common overseas, here is a typical example
https://www.hsbc.com.au/1/2/home-loans/products/equity

But also realised that one is also not allowed to take a credit loan out of your HDB flat.  Basically:

"HDB flats can only be mortgaged to banks or financial institutions to finance the purchase. HDB owners are not allowed to use their HDB flat, which has been fully paid for, as collateral to raise credit facilities."

So unless you own a private property, you most probably cannot take a cash out home loan to tap on the low mortgage rates now.

Singapore Property Feature: Botanique at Bartley

Just doing another property feature for one of the latest condominiums to be launched in Singapore -  Botanique at Bartley.

Developer: UOL Overseas Investment
Leasehold: 99 years
Location: Situated near Upper Paya Lebar Road and Bartley Road
Completion: mid-2018
Number of units: 797
Prices:
One bedroom - from S$598,000
Two bedroom - S$798,000
Three bedroom - S$1.16 million
Prices are slightly under S$1,300 psf


Singapore Property Feature: Commonwealth Towers

Commonwealth Towers is a new development that is located just beside Queenstown MRT. It features 845 residential units and will comprise of two 43-storey towers.

Prices are as follows:
One bedroom unit - From S$780k
Two bedroom unit - From S$1.18 million
Three bedroom unit - From S$1.42 million

Just recording down this information for future reference.

Here is the advertisement from today's newspaper.

Commonwealth Towers advertisement from Straits Times on 7 March 2015



Singapore REITs - History and Regulations

Singapore has probably done more than any other Asian country to grow and foster its Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) market.  Since the first REIT was listed till now in 2012, the number of listed REITs in Singapore has grown and looks set to surpass Japan for the top spot in terms of market capitalisation in the next 5 years.  Its foundation was not without trouble though.

In the beginning....

The first REIT to be listed in Singapore did not take off.  Its public offering took place in November 2001.  The developer was Capitaland and the REIT was SingMall Property Trust.  Offered at S$1.00 each with a forecasted earnings yield of 5.75% for 2002 and 6.05% for 2003, it was scrapped when the issue was only 80% subscribed.  The cause for the weak market sentiment was probably due to the aftermath of Sept 2011  and the uncertainty that was around.  Poor understanding of what a REIT was could also be a contributing factor.

A year later (July 2002), the original three major shopping centres/malls of Junction 8, Tampines Mall and Funan the IT Mall were repackaged into CapitaMall Trust.  The yield offered was 7.1% this time and investors were hooked.  This ushered in the start of the REIT market in Singapore.

The next few REITs to be listed on the Singapore stock exchange (SGX) were Ascendas REIT ( November 2002) and Fortune REIT (October 2003).

Today, there are around 20 REITs listed in Singapore covering various property types like commercial, residential, hospitality, hospitals, industrial, and retails.  Many of these are also cross-border REITs and own properties outside of Singapore.  These include CapitaRetail China Trust, First REIT, Frasers Commerical Trust (previously known as Allco REIT), Ascott REIT, LippoMall Indonesia Retail Trust, etc.

With many sponsors being developers too, it is highly likely that these sponsors will also inject future properties into the trusts already established.

Friendly Regulations played a part

Regulatory changes probably played an important role in fuelling investors' enthusiasm for REITs.  Withholding tax was set at 10% while there was full tax exemption for local and foreign individual investors.

The gearing limit (i.e. amount of debt the REIT could raise), was also increase from 25% to 35% and went up to 60% (on the condition that the trust received a rating from a credit rating agency).  Of course, some analysts have commented that the 60% gearing is not conditional on any rating the trust receives as long as a rating is obtained.  Through borrowing, a trust could potentially fund new purchases using cheap debt while increasing the amount of distributions to unit holders.  And that probably explains the acquisitions that followed for SREITs after the gearing level was increased.

REITs listed on SGX

Do note that some trusts are listed on the SGX too and these are not to be confused with REITs.  REITs are required to pay out 90% of their profit as distribution to enjoy tax incentives. Trusts do not have to do that.  So there is certainly less certainty on the distributions that one obtains from trusts as compared to a REIT.

Most of the REITs (if not all of them) are equity REITs in the sense that they hold real immovable properties unlike some of the mortgage REITs listed in the US stock exchange.

Here is the list of REITs listed on SGX:


  1. CapitaMall Trust
  2. MapleTree Industrial 
  3. Ascendas REIT
  4. CapitaCommerical 
  5. Suntec REIT
  6. Mapletree Logistics
  7. Mapletree Commercial
  8. Saizen
  9. First REIT
  10. Cambridge REIT
  11. LippoMalls Indonesian Retail Trust
  12. Cache
  13. Starhill Global
  14. CapitaRetail China
  15. Sabana
  16. Ascott
  17. Fortune REIT (HK$)
  18. Frasers Centrepoint Trust
  19. Frasers Commercial Trust 
  20. Keppel REIT













Investing in United States Real Estate


Many people are beginning to commit long term resources in the United States Real Estate market. The current US Dollar value is not as strong, and mortgage rates have plummeted. This has made it difficult for property owners to see good selling rates; however, buyers and investors are taking advantage of this to grow their business reach, and future fall backs. Many see real estate as a smarter form of investment, as compared to stocks and other unstable riskier ventures. Sales have been increasing over the years, and as an investor, it is important to get a real estate broker in the market to get you solid options before you make an offer. 

Naturally, the coastal areas of the United States have seen the most action in real estate activity. The East coast drew most Europeans, and the west saw more Asians flock to invest in their real estate options. The reason for this is probably proximity of the East to Europe and the West to Asia.

The exchange rate is definitely a great determinant of United States real estate activity, and many foreigners and even locals are looking to cash in on this window that is closing by the day. Mortgage rates are equally on the cards; a three decade fixed rate can hit an 8 month high of over seven percent. 

The United States real estate market has gotten great advertisement from the internet. MLS listings and other resources have brought more options on; Just listed homes, sold homes and new construction on duplexes, condos and other properties to the table. Investors can now take a property tour from their desktops and see just what is on the menu for them. 

Colorado and other cities in the States are booming in real estate sales and acquisitions. Foreclosures are slowly being replaced by short sales, and sincerely speaking, there hasn’t been a better time to invest in United States real estate. Investments like golf properties, resorts and other recreational real estates are equally on sale in the United States. 

Phoenix and Florida are other areas that have seen great influx of investments in real estate lately. These areas have some of the best environments and technological advancements that encourage people from all over the country, and the world in fact to settle down here. Real estate listings show lots of properties to you in the States, and you can be sure that these listings are not unscrupulously refreshed. They are listed to give you the ideal listings to pick from. You can choose from many cities, and go with a serene, tranquil real estate to settle down in. Access to essential amenities is well thought of before listing these properties. The children can go to school with ease, you can navigate to work and around town with relative ease, and many other investment opportunities are open to you as you reside in the states. You can easily raise a family and grow a business in these cities and provinces. So get your funds together and jump on this wagon, because real estate investment in the United States of America has become a cake worth taking a bite if you live in today. 




Investing in Real Estate

Real estate is usually one of the most expensive purchases that a person ever makes. The cost of real estate has risen significantly worldwide over the last decade until the economic problems came to life. Even now that housing prices have stabilized, they are still much higher than at the start of the last decade.

This can make it difficult for people to buy or invest in real estate, but it is great for anyone who bought before the prices started to rise. As any loans on the property are paid off over time, the cost of living there will be limited to any taxes and repair bills.

Advantages of Real Estate

As well as providing you with somewhere to live, or work, real estate can really work as an investment. If you own housing, you can rent it out to bring in a nice amount of money every month to supplement your salary. You will have to pay out for any repairs, and bad tenants can do a lot of damage, but many landlords have an agency that takes care of all that for you. Another advantage of property is the high cost of it. It might cost you a lot of money to buy, but you can usually sell it for a profit. Many landlords accumulate a portfolio of property that they use as a retirement fund, and sell it off when it is time to retire.

Disadvantages

Real estate is really expensive, and it can be difficult to borrow the money you need to buy a property. This can make it very difficult to start investing in real estate, although treating it like a business and presenting a solid plan to your bank may help if you want an investment property. A lot of people also end up asset rich and cash poor.

Choosing Real Estate

The hard part is choosing which real estate to invest in. Your intended use of the property will determine which is suitable. A house for your family might be a completely different choice to a property intended for rental to the holiday market in a resort area for example.

If you have the necessary skills, then you can make a lot of money by buying properties that need renovating and performing the necessary repairs. Your skills will enable you to perform the repairs quickly and cheaply and you can turn around real estate like this for a profit within a short space of time.

Building and maintenance skills are also useful if you want to be a landlord. By doing the repairs yourself it will save on the costs of paying for skilled craftsmen. It will also save money if you can manage the real estate yourself and deal with the tenants, but many people prefer to use an agency to do that.

Real estate can be a great property investment that can make a great profit, but can lead to large losses. Anyone considering property as an investment needs to research the market properly and invest in the right property in the best location they can afford.

[This is a guest post]

Land Banking Investment Risks


[Photo credits: Image by kwerfeldein]

Land banking is an investment scheme where someone buys a piece of land and sells it later for a profit. Sometimes they divide the land into a number of smaller plots and sell each one to generate a profit. The investor can hold the rights to the land for a short time and make a quick profit or hold the position for years before selling the land.

Often the plot is a piece of pristine land that is agricultural in nature, but it can also be former industrial land which might be contaminated. If the landowner is able to get building permission to develop or rezone the land,  it will increase the value of the land, and they can make a profit by selling it to a building developer. Sometimes the land is completely undeveloped and it might be possible to use it for farming.

Advantages of Land Banking

One of the great advantages of land banking over other kinds of investment is this:  the investor owns something that physically exists. This is different to stock and commodity traders who own a certificate, a piece of the business which is not really tangible to certain people or in other more complex finance instruments, they are just "numbers on a computer". Land banking thus often appeals to a different kind of investor who like the idea that their investment is actually a tangible asset.

Problems with Land Banking

I have written previously to beware about land banking, primarily because it is often an unregulated investment in many countries.  In a previous poll that I did on this blog, respondents also felt that land banking was one of the more toxic investments around.   Most people in Singapore are also probably aware of the case surrounding Profitable Plots which was involved in land banking.

Like any other form of investment, the price of land can go down as well as up. If the piece of land contains industrial contamination or can never get permission for development then it becomes effectively worthless.

Another problem with land banking is that a number of unscrupulous people have used it as a way to defraud people. They buy a plot of cheap land and then produce fake documents that make it look like it is worth more than it actually is and sell it on to unsuspecting investors. The rogue land bankers just vanish with the money leaving the investors with a worthless tract of land.

Locations of the Land

Land bankers can, in theory, invest in land anywhere in the world. However, some countries have laws that prevent non-nationals from owning land. If you are considering investing in land it is important to consult a lawyer who is an expert in the laws where you are buying the land. This will help to prevent any legal problems surprising you in the future.

Environmental Issues

In some areas of the world, virgin land is being taken and cleared to become agricultural land. This virgin land is often some way from existing agricultural land and infrastructure making it cheap to purchase. The investor can then hold the rights on the land until the infrastructure moves closer to it. At this point, they can rent it out to farmers or sell it for a profit. It might also be that the land is in an area suitable for mining and the investor buys the land in the hope to sell it to a mining company. In either case, the government could decide that the land lies within a protected area

Buyers Beware

Land banking is one way for people to invest and actually have the feeling of owning something tangible. It can be a great way to make money, but it is also a risky business. Anyone considering this should probably get legal advice first and only risk money that they can afford to lose.

First Steps to Success as a Property Investor


Successful property investment requires a good knowledge base. It’s important to get a good basic grounding in all the practices of property investment, from selecting properties to management and financing. These are the real bread and butter elements of property investment. It’s extremely important to learn each aspect and understand the issues in each part of the process. This is a type of business where learning by experience can be very costly.

You will need some professional assistance with property investment, including legal support and professional investment advice, particularly if you’re buying high value properties. There’s a large range of issues involved in any purchase or sale of property, and this advice can both save and make you a fortune, quite literally.

The property investment market has a nasty habit of boom and bust cycles which need to be well managed to ensure profitability and good returns on investment. Losses can hit hard, particularly if you’re borrowing to invest, or you have an investment that needs capital commitment to be profitable in a falling or stagnant market. A good working knowledge of the right market strategies and tactics will give you an advantage in any sort of property market or investment situation.

Stage 1- Basic elements of property investment education

Before you make any investment moves, it’s well worth attending some of the professional property investment seminars. These seminars are particularly useful for investors in need of fundamental information regarding markets, risk management and investment strategies. Property markets can be quite volatile, and some local markets may be flat while others are booming. These are primary principles in property investment, and it’s critically important to develop a clear vision of the issues in your own property market.

Stage 2- Finding the right property investment advisory services

The best property investment companies offer a range of services which include:

·        Resources for property research- These include market reports, news and other up to date information which can provide valuable insights into your property investment options.

·        Property investment strategy advice and programs- The most successful property investors have a clear market strategy which sees them through boom and bust markets. Defensive and aggressive investment strategies have their benefits, and learning these strategies is a  

·        Consultation services- These services can be absolutely invaluable, providing full spectrum support for investors, whatever their needs. (Please note that in the early stages of investment, this consultative process is also very valuable as “advanced training”, because your advisors will be able to walk you through the issues and explain them for you and provide good options for each investment.)

Stage 3- Your own investment team, on standby

At the end of your education phase, you’ll find that you have excellent knowledge of your investment options, as well as a team of professional experts on hand whenever you need them. The most successful property investors in the world have professional teams to support their every move, and the best property investments are never accidental.

Talk to a professional property investment advisor, and check out their services. You’ll never look back.

 [The above is a guest post]

HDB Home Value Will Not Go Down

After contemplating on the option to buy a 2nd property or invest in real estate investment trust (REITs), I have more or less come to a conclusion that investing in REITs is perhaps the more viable option for me now. And that is the reason that I bought some AIMSAMP REITs into my portfolio recently.

I was also heartened to read the news today where Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew opined that since 85% of Singaporeans lived in HDB flats, the government would strive to make HDB homes the most valuable possession they own. In his words:

"85% of Singaporeans are living in HDB flats and we intend to keep the values of these homes up. It will never go down."

This was spoken as the MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC announced the 5 year master plan for Tanjong Pagar which includes upgrading programmes. Since I live in a HDB flat, I am glad that the government is committed to making the value of my home rise. In fact, I am glad that I am an owner of a HDB flat as I have witnessed the value of my home increase significantly over the years.



Bought AIMSAMP REIT

Just entered into AIMSAMP REIT. It is a REIT that nearly went bankrupt during the financial crisis. After asking for some advice on whether to buy a 2nd property or just invest in REITs, I think I pretty much know the answer.

I don't earn enough and have enough savings to buy a 2nd property just yet. Thus, the only option is for me to invest through a real estate investment trust (REIT). The benefit of investing in REITs instead of a direct property investment is that I do not need to invest a large sum of money and I also do not need to take on additional debt which banks will not lend to me (since I earn too little).


Best Homes in Singapore

Which are the best homes in Singapore? Or should I say the best location to have a home in Singapore?

I was reading the newspapers on the MRT lines to be built over the next few years as well as the section on property agents and their commissions. There was also a topic on how certain flood prone areas will most probably have the value of their homes affected.

I have been thinking recently about the best location for a home in Singapore. While there is a balance to be strike between privacy and the availability of amenities, I think a lot of these has to do with the individual home buyer.

For me, I think a good home should be located close to food stalls or places where I can grab my meals. My family likes to eat out so having food stalls nearby is one of the major decisions when it comes to having a good location for a home.

Perhaps another important factor would be distance to work...

Featured Post

Unlock Exclusive Deals and Savings: Join Amazon Prime Today!

Amazon is celebrating Prime members with a multitude of deals during Prime Day. The event will offer more deals than ever before, with new d...