Hot Singapore Properties

Singapore property developers cautious about market outlook

2012-02-07T21:30:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE : Property developers seem pessimistic about the outlook for Singapore's real estate market in 2012, with some analysts foreseeing a five to ten percent drop in property prices this year.

But market watchers also say the strong interest in recent property launches could defy these forecasts and even lead to more cooling measures.

Celebrations continue but property developers are still in the dark about the outlook for Singapore's property market in 2012.

Mr Wong Heang Fine, President, Real Estate Developer's Association of Singapore, said: "We are cautious. On the market going forward, it all depends on how the global economy goes in the next eleven months. So it's really anybody's guess."

URA data shows the rate of price increase for private residential properties moderating for the ninth consecutive quarter with rentals also tapering off.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Yvonne Chan

Rate of increase in private home prices continues to moderate in Q4 2011

2012-01-31T09:18:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The rate of increase in private residential property prices continued to moderate for the 9th consecutive quarter since Q4 2009.

Flash estimates by the Urban Redevelopment Authority showed that the private homes index rose to 206.2 points in Q4 2011, up 0.2 per cent, compared to the 1.3 per cent increase in Q3.

Prices of non-landed private residential properties increased by 0.5 per cent in the Core Central region and by 0.6 per cent in the Outside Central region, in the quarter.

There was no change in prices in the Rest of the Central region.

But compared to Q3 figures, prices of non-landed private residential properties went up by 0.7 per cent in the Core Central region, 1.2 per cent in the Rest of the Central region and 2.1 per cent in the Outside Central region.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Additional Property Cooling Measures

2011-12-08T10:41:00.001+08:00

MND issued a media release at 740pm last evening.

Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty for a Stable and Sustainable Property Market
07 Dec 2011 07:40 PM

1              The Government announced today an Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) to be imposed on certain categories of residential property purchases. The ABSD will be imposed over and above the current Buyer’s Stamp Duty, and will apply to the purchase price or market value of the property (whichever is higher) for the following purchases:

a)    Foreigners and non-individuals (corporate entities) buying any residential property will pay an ABSD of 10%;

b)    Permanent Residents (PRs) owning one and buying the second and subsequent residential property will pay an ABSD of 3%; and

c)    Singapore Citizens (Singaporeans) owning two and buying the third and subsequent residential property will pay an ABSD of 3%.

The ABSD will take effect on 8 Dec 2011. Remission of ABSD will be given for options granted on or before 7 Dec 2011 and exercised within 3 weeks (i.e. on or before 28 Dec 2011) or the option validity period, whichever is the earlier.

2              The Government's objective is to promote a sustainable residential property market where prices move in line with economic fundamentals. Prices of private residential properties have continued to rise, albeit more slowly in the last two quarters. Prices are now 13% above the peak in 2Q1996 and 16% above the more recent peak in 2Q2008.

3              Even with the current economic uncertainties, the demand for private residential property remains firm. Given the uncertainty in stock markets and with interest rates remaining low, private property in Singapore continues to attract investors, local and foreign. Excessive investment demand will however make the property cycle more volatile, and thus increase the risks to our economy and banking system.

4              The Government has therefore decided to impose the ABSD to moderate investment demand for private residential property and promote a more stable and sustainable market. A higher ABSD rate for foreign buyers in particular is necessary, in view of the large pool of external liquidity and strong buying interest from abroad, and the relatively small size of the Singapore market. Foreign purchases account for 19% of all private residential property purchases in 2H2011, up from 7% in 1H2009.

5              The ABSD will apply in addition to the existing Buyer’s Stamp Duty on property purchases, which are applied at following rates: 1% on first $180,000 of purchase consideration or market value of the property (whichever is higher), 2% on the next $180,000 and 3% for the remainder.

6              For purchases made jointly by two or more parties (e.g. a Singaporean with a PR, or a PR with a foreigner), the higher applicable ABSD rate will be imposed. For example, if a citizen purchases a property with a foreigner, the ABSD of 10% will apply. In the case of a joint purchase by Singaporeans, who each already owns properties, the ABSD of 3% will apply as long as one of the purchasers already owns two properties.

7              Singaporean first time buyers and upgraders, and buyers of HDB flats[4] will not be affected by the new measure. Certain reliefs will be provided so that the measure will not impact home occupation demand by residents. For example, relief will be provided for Singaporean-foreigner/PR married couples buying their homes. Reliefs will also be provided for qualifying developers and for purchases falling within the scope of Singapore’s international trade agreements. More details will be provided on the IRAS website.

Adequate Supply of Private Housing to Meet Demand

8              The Government will also continue to ensure an adequate
supply of private housing to meet medium term demand. There are 41,000 unsold private housing units in the pipeline. The Government will inject sites that can potentially yield a total of 14,100 units in the 1H2012 Government Land Sales (GLS) Programme, similar to the supply in previous GLS programmes. Of these, about 7,000 units will be from sites on the Confirmed List. These numbers take into account the ample pipeline supply and the dampening effect of the ABSD.

9              To give more Singaporean households the chance to own or upgrade to private housing, the Government raised the monthly income ceiling for the purchase of new Executive Condominiums (ECs) from $10,000 to $12,000 in Aug 2011. We will expand the EC supply in 2012 and are prepared to release sites that can potentially yield 5,000 EC units for the entire year. Sites for 3,500 EC units will be made available in 1H2012, including 3,000 EC units on the Confirmed List. The Confirmed List quantum is comparable to the 3,000 EC units from 5 sites sold for the whole of 2011. More details will be provided in the press release for the
1H2012 GLS Programme on MND’s website.

10              The Government will continue to monitor the property market and adjust our property policies in step with changes in the market and the economy. Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, said, “We have always had open markets and must keep them that way. However, the reality is that investment flows into our property market are now larger than before, and unlikely to recede as long as interest rates remain low. The additional buyer’s stamp duty should help cool investment demand, and avoid the prospect of a major, destabilising correction further down the road.”

11              Khaw Boon Wan, Minister for National Development, said, “We are ramping up the supply of new EC units through the Government Land Sales Programme. This will help higher-income Singaporeans own private condominium units in an affordable way, as the sale of new EC units is restricted to Singaporean households only.”

For updates read the full version from MND :
http://app.mnd.gov.sg/Newsroom/NewsPage.aspx?ID=3199&category=Press%20Release&year=2011&RA1=&RA2=&RA3=#

For computation examples from IRAS : http://www.iras.gov.sg/irasHome/page04.aspx?id=12832

HDB upgraders set pace in private property market

2011-10-18T12:32:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The private residential market saw a rebound in September.

Figures released by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) on Monday showed 2,064 units, including executive condominiums (ECs), were transacted.

This is the highest number of monthly transactions this year and a significant 26 per cent increase from August's 1,638 units.

Treasure Trove, a development in Punggol, accounted for about 40 per cent of the transactions with more than 680 units sold.

PropNex Realty said the homebuyers are mainly HDB upgraders, attracted to the pricing and the proximity of the development to the Punggol MRT.

It said the revision of income ceiling had prompted many to purchase ECs.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

New enhancements to HDB website e-services

2011-10-12T10:11:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: From Wednesday, flat buyers will be able to enquire about the transacted resale prices within a 500-metre radius from any existing HDB block or DBSS project.

They can do this by specifying the HDB block or DBSS project, and a summary table on the range of transacted resale prices by flat type within a 500-metre-radius of the target property will be displayed. This will also include the range of floor areas and the number of resale transactions.

Users can access this enhanced e-Service on the HDB InfoWEB at http://www.hdb.gov.sg/map from 10am on 12 October.

Currently, the public can check for resale transactions made over the last one year via the Resale Flat Prices e-service or the Centralised Map Services enquiry facility. However, there is no enquiry facility for users to search using a distance criterion.

With the latest enhancement, the HDB said the public will have better information on resale prices near the particular property they are interested in. This will enable them to make an informed decision before committing to buy or sell a flat.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Property outlook? You are all alone

2011-10-09T19:16:00.000+08:00

When there were first signs that the United States economy would slip back into recession, the US dollar fell against most currencies. However, when the euro zone debt crisis deepened, the greenback appreciated sharply. This caused a small but sudden spike in the Singapore Interbank Offered Rate to which most housing loans are pegged to.

So, this is how our local rates can ostensibly rise even when the US Federal Reserve promises to keep US rates low till mid-2013.

Talking about safe havens, gold's latest bull market began in late 2008 because investors longed for something tangible. This was because the value of stocks, bonds and even currencies was shaken by the financial crisis. People wondered whether any corporation or government was strong enough to stand behind a certificate.

As a physical possession, gold was one of the few investments that needed no such guarantee. Sounds familiar? Property is also something that most people would consider as tangible.

However, since its August peak, gold has fallen more than 15 per cent to around US$1,600 an ounce today. The recent collapse suggests that the 2011 gold rush was a speculative bubble that may have popped. What about property?

More details at http://www.todayonline.com

Source : MediaCorp Press Ltd by Colin Tan, is Chesterton Suntec Internationl's head of research & consultancy.

Own a Semi-Detached Bungalow for the price of a HDB

2011-09-27T21:03:00.000+08:00

Imagine leasing your HDB out and using the rent to service the loan for your dream home in Iskandar Malaysia, just 10 minutes away from Singapore. Well, opportunity comes to those who takes action now.

The Straits View Residences (Phase 4)

A freehold strata land parcel development located in the centre of the Iskandar Malaysia, just 10 minutes to Singapore. It consists of distinctively designed 186 exclusive semi-detached homes and 32 luxurious bungalows within a well gated and guarded community.

This low density luxurious development offers an exclusive clubhouse for the residents and the panoramic view of the Straits of Johor and Singapore.

The Straits View Residences are proudly developed by Permas Jaya Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Bandar Raya Developments Berhad.

BRDB is Malaysia’s premier high-end property developer responsible for creating some of Malaysia’s most desirable addresses, including the award-winning The Troika, designed by world-renowned architects Foster & Partners; One Menerung and Bangsar Shopping Centre in the affluent neighbourhood of Bangsar; and CapSquare in the heart of midtown KL.

Permas Jaya is one of BRDB’s earliest developments. Piece by piece, BRDB have been adding to the landscape of Johor Bahru to create the expanse of residential choices that is Permas Jaya today; testament to the promise of creating homes of enduring value.

Concept

· Epitomize modern homes with lush greenery concept living within city center

· Low density exclusive homes are uniquely comprised of Semi-Dee and Bungalows only

· Entire precinct is rectilinear in configuration, allowing all units facing North – South orientation

· Gated and Guarded Residences with comprehensive security features

· Sanctuary clubhouse with Full range of facilities

Distinctive features

· Land parcel govern by Strata Title Act

· Low density residences only 6 units to one acre of land

· Each home can accommodate 4 cars with its car park

· Each homes has a majestic double volume living/dining area where orientated towards a garden view which allow an abundance of natural light, breeze and cross ventilation

· Large master bedroom

Highlight

· The one and only one gated and guarded development with exclusive clubhouse facilities governing by Strata Title Act within Johor Bahru City

· Within walking distance to established commercial facilities and Golf Course

· A Sanctuary clubhouse sited on a 2 acres central park

· Sophisticated infrastructure such as roads with pedestrian paths

· Underground electrical/telephone supply lines

· Centralized SMATV services

· Concealed drains

· Centralized sewerage systems and concealed services

· Landscaped gardens

· Tree-lined streets

· Wide green spaces are the design directions

· Landscaped pockets parks with walkways through breezeways

· An iconic forest grove provides for green lungs

Security

· A place where one can feel safe

· A place one can sleep soundly at night

· A place one can be away for long periods

· A place where kids can be outdoors safely

Environment

· A well maintained clean surrounding

· A relaxing atmosphere like a resort

· A serene, calm, seductive place

· A comfortable, shady (not hot) location

· Open concept and yet secured

Attractions/Facilities

· Conducive environment for morning walks/exercise

· Kids have a place to play

· Central secured facilities akin to a club

· Ample car parking

· Footpath

Pride in Investment

· Must be timeless

· Must be able to project the image of their successful standing

· Able to show-off to business associates

· Development by reputable developer

Call Lawrence at 9853 3323 for Priority Preview Invitation. The Event is on Friday 30th September 2011

between 5pm to 9pm. As this is a Private Preview, location will be disclosed during your call.

Caution in the local property market

2011-09-22T23:09:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE - The drop in the number of bids for land sale sites appears to indicate that a degree of caution has settled in the property market.

A recent Urban Redevelopment Authority land tender for a commercial site along Robinson Road and Cecil Street closed with only three bidders.

According to a report by DBS Group Research, the "response was lukewarm" on the back of the global uncertainties and potential knock-on impact on the office rental market.

The winning bid for the commercial site was S$311.8 million, or S$882 per square feet per plot ratio (psf ppr). Still, DBS said the winning bid was "fair despite being below at the lower end of earlier market expectations of S$995 psf ppr.

Meanwhile, bids by developers for residential government land sales have also moderated.

More details at http://www.todayonline.com

Source : MediaCorp Press Ltd by Linette Lim

Real estate exam deadline extended

2011-09-22T23:06:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Property agents who are struggling with a mandatory industry examination will have another six months to prepare for the test.

This applies to agents with provisional licences who need to pass the Real Estate Salesperson (RES) examination to continue practising.

The Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) said the deadline has been extended from December 31 this year to June 30, 2012.

The exam was introduced as part of new rules in January this year to raise the level of professionalism in the industry.

Agents who had not passed the exam could continue to work on a provisional basis but must pass the exam within a year.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Joanne Chan

MBS architect to design condo in Bishan Central

2011-09-22T23:03:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The upcoming condominium in Bishan Central, which will launched early next year, shares something in common with Marina Bay Sands.

The condo will be designed by renowned international architect Moshe Safdie who also designed Marina Bay Sands.

Residents will enjoy a full suite of recreational facilities, including a 50-metre lap pool, leisure pools, children's pool, play areas, a tennis court, barbeque pits, function rooms, karaoke rooms and a gymnasium.

But property analysts said local buyers are usually more concerned about the price and facilities rather than its design.

They added that local buyers are also more concerned about the credibility of the developer than the designer.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Ng Puay Leng, Vimita Mohandas

Circle Line breakdown "unlikely to affect Oct 8 opening"

2011-09-22T23:01:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has said the breakdown of the Circle Line on Tuesday morning should not impact the planned opening of the Stage 4 and 5 of the line on 8 October.

Almost 27,000 morning rush-hour commuters were affected by the disruption of train services on all 16 Circle Line stations.

LTA said it has determined that the breakdown was due to a localised fault and that it was working closely with operator SMRT to ensure the Circle Line would open smoothly as planned.

Preliminary investigations have shown that a faulty cable located below the platform level of Dakota Station caused a power trip that affected the entire Circle Line system.

The disruption comes some two weeks before the final 12 stations of the Circle Line are opened for service.

The stations, running from Marymount to Harbourfront, will open on October 8.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Monica Kotwani

US housing starts slow in August

2011-09-22T22:58:00.000+08:00

WASHINGTON : US housing starts fell in August for a second straight month, another sign of the weakness of the American economy, the US Department of Commerce said on Tuesday.

Builders started new homes at an annual pace of 571,000 units, down from 601,000 in July and 615,000 in May. The pace was also slightly lower than that for the first half of the year.

However, in a promising sign - though from a less reliable indicator of the economy's health - building permits issued in August jumped to an annual rate of 620,000, up from 601,000 in July and 606,000 in June, the department said.

The construction industry, one of the key pillars of the economy, has remained in a deep slump since the 2008-2009 recession, with ultra-low interest rates failing to give a boost to the sector.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Home loans may creep up next year: analysts

2011-09-20T11:09:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Interest rates in Singapore may rise - from their lowest levels in 40 years - as early as March next year, according to analysts.

They say home loan refinancing is surging, but bank profitability and the rising cost of funds offshore may force the banks' hand.

Banks could be forced to raise their home loan interest rates as early as six months from now.

Low rates have hurt their profitability and they will not bear the razor-thin margins for ever.

Dennis Ng, CEO of HousingLoanSg.com said: "Banks may be forced to increase the interest margin on their housing loans. (With the three-month SIBOR at 0.35 per cent, even if they add in an interest margin of 0.6 or 0.7 per cent, the total interest rate would be about one per cent - and that, to a lot of banks, means that profitability is affected."

This means that home loans, which are currently in the range of 1 to 1.2 per cent, may go up as much as 0.3 percentage points by early next year. That is even if the Singapore Interbank Offered Rate, or SIBOR, component of home loans remains low.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Linette Lim

Wanted project marketing salesperson

2011-09-19T18:37:00.004+08:00

Not happy with your present status?
Not given an opportunity to be in core team of new projects?

We are looking for exceptional people to help us grow. If you're looking for a challenge, are passionate about what you do both inside and outside of work, why not call me for a no obligations meeting.

We want you if you are :

An experienced new project marketing real estate agent.
or not experienced but eager to learn and passed the RES exams.
Those who are presently leading a team, please ask for our special terms.

Knight Frank Singapore has a proud history that traces all the way back to 1940 with the establishment of Cheong Hock Chye & Co.

The creation of the modern practice dates back to 1983, when the local firm Cheong Hock Chye & Company merged with the Knight Frank Global Network and the Australian Baillieu Hooker group.

Knight Frank Singapore is an integrated global real estate advisory firm whose mission is to create wealth for its clients, by maximising the value of their property assets.

We are also one of only a handful of organisations able to provide a full suite of real estate services in both commercial and residential property markets.

We offer clients the highest standards of real estate solutions through a comprehensive range of services on all aspects of property across commercial, residential and other market sectors.

We’re passionate about property. We aim to be progressive in our thinking. And above all, we are consummately professional in everything we do.

New Launch : D'Zire @ Robey Crescent, former South Lake Villa

2011-09-19T10:36:00.004+08:00

Located at 12 Robey Crescent, in a quiet neighborhood, D’Zire epitomizes a relaxed atmosphere that sets the right mood to spark inspiration and install a feeling of plenitude and freshness. This boutique development blends minimalist sleekness with cozy comfort to create personal space as well as interactive opportunities for residents of its 47 exclusive apartments.

Facilities include Yoga Rain Shower, Reflexology Path, Barbeque and Grill facilities plus Gym and many others.

Situated in District 19 (S 546290), the development is in close proximity to Kovan and Hougang MRT, Rosyth School, Xinmin Primary School and several international schools plus shopping centres such as NEX, Heartland Mall and Hougang Mall. Restaurants, eateries and Chomp Chomp at Serangoon Gardens are also close.

Send email to lawrencecyk@gmail.com to register for Priorty Preview Invitation.

You wil be informed of Date and Time of Preview once it's confirmed.

Cooling measures won't slow property demand: CapitaLand Residential

2011-09-17T17:24:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The head of CapitaLand's residential unit said government cooling measures will not slow underlying demand for residential property in Singapore.

Wong Heang Fine, CEO of CapitaLand Residential Singapore, said prices are likely to keep rising this year, although the pace of increase may moderate.

He said continuing low interest rates and high liquidity will support demand.

Chong Lit Cheong, CEO of CapitaLand Commercial said rental rates for commercial space will moderate as demand softens with many major tenants such as investment banks having already secured office space.

CapitaLand unveiled designs for a S$1.4 billion commercial project on a site that was formerly Market Street Carpark and a new condominium in Bishan on Thursday.

And its Group CEO is banking on Singapore's projected future as a financial hub to expand its commercial business.

Liew Mun Leong, President & CEO of CapitaLand Group said: "In general, Singapore is small city in terms of area, the demand for office space would definitely grow if Singapore were to grow into a cosmopolitan city and a financial centre."

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Stella Lee

Property agents struggle with English exam

2011-09-16T12:49:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Some real estate agents with provisional licences are urging the government to consider their track records, and not just educational qualifications.

When new regulations kicked in this year, existing agents who had not passed the Real Estate Salesperson exam were given one year to do so.

Nine months on, some are still struggling to overcome language difficulties and face losing their licence.

Property firms said some agents have not taken the test as they're dropping out of the industry.

But others are struggling to fulfil the requirement, and it's not from lack of trying.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Joanne Chan

Private home sales dip 3.6% in August

2011-09-15T19:04:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Private home sales in Singapore dipped 3.6 per cent in August. This follows the 17 per cent rebound in July.

The dip comes after the government increased the income ceiling for public flats and executive condominiums (ECs) in August.

Some 1,348 units were sold in August, excluding ECs. That's 50 units fewer than the 1,398 units sold in the previous month.

More than eight in ten units - 1,114 of the total units sold in August - were sold in the suburbs, while 169 units came from city fringe areas with 65 units sold in the city centre.

The most expensive unit sold in August was at The Marq on Paterson Hill in District 9, which went for S$6,394 per square foot.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Timothy Ouyang

Companies turning to social media to engage customers

2011-09-15T18:39:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE : Companies in Asia are increasingly turning to social media to engage their customers.

But experts said that while Facebook and Twitter are good marketing tools, it is important to develop a well-thought strategy to handle crises.

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has jumped on the cyberspace bandwagon, now using Facebook and Twitter to reach out to its customers - 24/7.

Nicholas Ionides, vice president for public affairs at Singapore Airlines, said: "Social media is not a replacement of our existing communications and engagement channels with our customers.

"Our Customer Affairs Department of course still exists, our website is still there, our public relations activities are still there. This is an additional tool that complements the existing channels.

"It does not mean that we will be able to respond to every post that somebody may have on our Twitter and Facebook pages within a couple of minutes. But we are constantly looking at it, we are monitoring regularly and we are able to engage quite quickly and quite extensively with our customers."

SIA has attracted more than 1,300 followers on Twitter (@SingaporeAir) since launching its page last week.

Its official Facebook page, which was initially set up by a fan, has a following of more than 110,000.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Facebook lets users track posts from strangers

2011-09-15T18:35:00.000+08:00

SAN FRANCISCO: Facebook is letting members follow strangers Twitter-style in the latest of a barrage of data maelstrom-taming moves since rival social network Google+ launched in June.

"Google+ was a major wake-up call for Facebook," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.

"They were awakened to the fact that they could be another MySpace; so they suddenly got very aggressive on moving the ball forward so they couldn't get caught," he added.

MySpace was the dominant online social network until it was eclipsed by Facebook.

Google+ combined aspects of Facebook and microblogging sensation Twitter, and promised users that sharing aspects of their lives at the social network would reflect levels of confidentiality granted in real life.

A criticism of Facebook has been that updates are shared with all of one's friends unless a user has gone through a relatively complicated process to create separate Facebook Groups.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Ceylon Flats up for en bloc sale

2011-09-15T10:36:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: A three-storey walk up residential development at Ceylon Road is being put up for collective sale.

The indicative price for the site is in the range of S$25.75 million to S$27.39 million or about S$800 to S$850 per square foot per plot ratio.

Ceylon Flats is a freehold property located off East Coast Road, comprising a total of 21 apartment units.

The 23,168 sq ft site is marketed by property consultants Colliers International. It said the site can be redeveloped into a 5-storey residential development accommodating either 50 units of 650 sq ft each or 29 units of 1,100 sq ft each.

A development charge of approximately S$176,000 is payable to maximise the allowable gross plot ratio.

Each owner could receive between S$1.22 million to S$1.3 million from the sale.

The tender for Ceylon Flats will close on October 12.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

URA launches tender for residential site at Chestnut Avenue

2011-09-15T10:33:00.000+08:00

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has launched a residential site at Chestnut Avenue for sale by public tender today.

The land parcel at Chestnut Avenue is launched for sale under the Confirmed List of the 2nd half 2011 (2H2011) Government Land Sales (GLS) Programme. This land parcel released for sale today can yield about 380 housing units.

In addition, the Housing & Development Board (HDB) will be releasing three other residential sites for sale today. The two residential sites at Punggol Central / Edgedale Plains and Yishun Avenue 1 / Miltonia Close will be released for sale via the Confirmed List while another residential site at Bishan Street 14 will be made available for application for sale on the Reserve List. These three sites can potentially yield another 1,575 housing units.

Together, these four sites will provide developers and home-buyers with more choices.

The details of the URA residential sale site are as follows:

Land Parcel at Chestnut Avenue

With a site area of about 1.87 ha, the land parcel will have a maximum permissible gross floor area (GFA) of 39,271 sqm.

The site, located in the western part of Singapore, is well connected to major arterial roads and expressways such as Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE), Pan Island Expressway (PIE) and Upper Bukit Timah Road. Residents will enjoy easy access to the rest of Singapore when the future Cashew, Hillview and Petir stations along the Downtown Line are ready by 2015.

More details at http://www.ura.gov.sg

Source : Urban Redevelopment Authority

New income ceiling for executive condo applies to all

2011-09-14T18:16:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The revised S$12,000 income ceiling for executive condominiums (EC) will also apply to five projects launched before August 15 this year.

The Ministry of National Development said it made this change following public feedback to apply the new ceiling to projects launched before August 15, the date the new ceiling was announced for EC projects.

MND said it found the feedback sound as it will enable home buyers to enjoy a wider selection of EC units across projects and locations.

The five EC projects launched before August 15 this year still hold about 600 unsold units.

The five projects are: Esparina Residences and Austville Residences in Sengkang, The Canopy in Yishun, RiverParc Residence in Punggol and Blossom Residences in Bukit Panjang.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Some 2,700 real estate agents may lose licence by year-end

2011-09-13T18:13:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Some 2,700 real estate agents stand to lose their provisional licence if they do not pass a mandatory exam by the end of this year.

They were granted a one-year licence when the new regulatory framework kicked in at the start of this year, which requires all agents to pass an industry exam. However, some agents are facing language problems.

Mohd Ismail, CEO of PropNex, said: "They struggle to understand the exam questions. One or two people have broken down because they are very stressed, thinking what will happen to their rice bowl.

For some of these people, we are trying our level best to give them a mentor, who is their respective team manager and leader... to give one-to-one coaching."

About six per cent of agents at PropNex have a provisional licence.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Joanne Chan

Construction of New Dual Four-Lane Road to Relieve Congestion along PIE & Lornie Road and Serve Future Developments

2011-09-13T10:16:00.000+08:00

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) will construct a new dual four-lane road in Bukit Brown.

Construction of the new road is expected to begin in early 2013 and will be completed by 2016. This new road will serve as the new link connecting motorists travelling between Thomson Road, Adam Road and PIE, and is part of the road network that will support future developments in Bukit Brown.

In line with long term plans, Bukit Brown area will be developed for housing in the future. The new road will also connect Bukit Brown with the rest of the road network.

More details at http://www.ura.gov.sg

Source : Urban Redevelopment Authority

Malaysia's foreign investments steady

2011-09-10T09:31:00.000+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: Foreign direct investment inflows into Malaysia have been holding up, despite the global economic uncertainty.

For the first half of this year, foreign direct investment rose by 76 per cent on-year to 21.3 billion ringgit (more than US$9 billion ).

That is being supported by the economic transformation programme crafted by Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak.

When delivering the latest progress update on the government's ambitious economic transformation programme, PM Najib was all smiles.

He unveiled eight new initiatives from covering palm oil, retail and communications to electrical and electronics.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Melissa Goh

Malaysia exports up 7.1% in July

2011-09-10T09:29:00.000+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia said on Friday its exports, the mainstay of the country's economy, increased 7.1 percent year-on-year in July, easing from the previous month as the global economy slows down.

The trade ministry said exports grew to 59.24 billion ringgit ($19.80 billion) while imports reached 49.79 billion ringgit, up 2.9 percent year on year.

The export growth was led by higher shipments of palm oil, liquefied natural gas, and chemicals and chemical products, which accounted for more than one-fifth of all exports.

The pace of exports was slower than June's 8.6 percent year-on-year increase and down from the 13.5 percent growth seen in July 2010.

Yeah Kim Leng, group chief economist with financial firm RAM Holdings, called July's export performance "moderate, within expectation" as Europe and the United States struggle with debt crises and Japan recovers from its earthquake and tsunami disasters.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

REDAS urges govt to review property market tightening measures

2011-09-10T09:26:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The Real Estate Developers' Association of Singapore (REDAS) has raised concerns over a potential oversupply of private homes in the near term, especially with the uncertain global outlook.

It is urging the government to review its land sales programme to ensure that new supply is introduced only when the market is confident of absorbing it.

With the possibility of demand for private homes dropping due to an economic downturn, developers are pointing to the need to rein in supply.

In the second half of this year, the government will put up for sale 17 private residential sites under the Confirmed List of the Land Sales Programme.

Including recent sites sold, an estimated 53,000 private homes will hit the market over the next few years.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Linette Lim

Chinese buyers eye S'pore property

2011-09-10T09:20:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Property agents have said buyers from China make up the largest group of foreign investors in Singapore's private residential property.

The number of buyers from China has doubled in the past three years.

Property agents and developers said Chinese buyers are mostly interested in properties that are in prime districts and have a sea view.

Agents said previously, the traditional groups of foreign buyers were from Indonesia and Malaysia.

This has led to some local property agents to actively launch plans to gain a foothold in the China market.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Prices for Arc at Tampines expected to range from S$600k to S$1.32m

2011-09-08T20:33:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Housing agents said prices for the first executive condominium launched after the income ceiling was raised for households, range from just under S$600,000 to S$1.32 million.

Agents said that two-bedroom units, for Arc at Tampines, located at Tampines Avenue 8, are going for between S$741 and S$875 per square foot while the price for three-bedroom units ranges from S$693 to S$810 per square foot.

Four-bedroom units are priced between S$674 and S$764 per square foot, with penthouses going for S$529 to S$635 per square foot.

The development is twice oversubscribed despite it being one of the most expensive ECs when it was launched in October last year. Balloting for the units begins on Thursday.

Analysts said that the prices are similar to Esparina Residences launched last year in Sengkang, and could form the benchmark for the prices of three future ECs to be launched in Choa Chu Kang, Tampines and Punggol.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Lip Kwok Wai / Wayne Chan

Freehold development at Robin Road up for sale

2011-09-08T20:29:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE : A small freehold development at Robin Road, off Bukit Timah Road, has been put up for sale with an expected selling price of S$58 million.

The properties at numbers 2 to 8 Robin Road comprise 16 residential units and have a combined land area of approximately 23,084 square feet.

Under the 2008 Master Plan, the site is zoned for residential development at Gross Plot Ratio (GPR) of 1.4, with an allowable building height of up to five storeys.

The site is being marketed by Credo Real Estate.

It added that a development charge is not payable for the redevelopment of the site up to the allowable plot ratio of 1.4 plus 10 per cent balcony Gross Floor Area (GFA).

The total GFA allowed is approximately 35,550 square feet, including 10 per cent GFA for balcony space. The site may be configured into approximately 56 apartment units with an average size of 600 square feet, depending on layout and configuration.

The land rate works out to be approximately S$1,782 per square foot per plot ratio at GPR of 1.4, or S$1,620 per square foot per plot ratio at GPR of 1.54.

The tender for the property closes at 2.30 pm on October 5.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Arthur Sim

Concept Plan of Future MRT lines?

2011-09-07T10:08:00.000+08:00

I managed to get the plan from the internet, seems like a concept plan for the future.

The Downtown Line would bring the rail network to 82km from the current 40km. It will quadruple rentable commercial space in its station to 14,000 sqm.

The Downtown Line will have a daily ridership in excess of 700,000 when completed in 2017. Being a medium capacity MRT system each train has 3 carriages, underground, fully automated hence driverless. With 34 stations that links the North-western and Eastern parts of Singapore to Marina Bay.

To be completed in 3 stages, Stage 1 (Black, Downtown Extension) with 6 stations in the city centre is expected to complete in 2013. Stage 2 (Indigo, Bt Timah Line) with 12 stations is expected to complete in 2015. And last Stage 3 (Yellow, Eastern Region Line) with 16 stations is due to open in 2017.

For more information and location of the stations :
http://www.lta.gov.sg/projects/proj_dtl_3.htm

I found another plan online, probably not firm but on the drawing board. Would be very nice to have Mrt lines running to Johore though. Just enjoy and dream about this pic, may not come true for a long time or ever!

Anyone care to comment?

S'pore unlikely to be spared from global slowdown

2011-09-07T09:47:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Singapore's economy could see some slowdown as the world economic outlook becomes uncertain. And a global recession is more likely than not as the US and European economies are at "stall" speed.

That's according to Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who was speaking at the third World Bank - Singapore Infrastructure Finance Summit Tuesday.

It has been said that when the US sneezes, the world catches a cold.

And now, with Europe and Japan being in dire straits as well, Asia may no longer be immune to the global slowdown.

Although Singapore will be vulnerable, Mr Tharman said the government "will know how to respond" in the event of a major dip in the economy.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Linette Lim

Daisy Apartments sold en bloc for S$14.62m

2011-09-07T09:40:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Daisy Apartments, a residential redevelopment site near Serangoon Gardens, was successfully sold via en bloc for S$14.618 million to SingBuilders.

This translates to a land rate of about S$738 per square foot per plot ratio, including an estimated development charge for the 10 per cent bonus gross floor area for balconies.

With the successful sale, each owner stands to receive gross sales proceeds of up to S$1.27 million.

The freehold site is located at Daisy Road and has a land area of more than 13,000 square feet.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Singapore drops to 9th place in Knight Frank house price index

2011-09-06T12:51:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE - Singapore slipped four notches to rank No 9 on Knight Frank's latest global house price index largely due to regulatory measures and global economic uncertainties.

Annual price growth in Singapore, which ranked No 5 on the list in the March quarter, stood at 6.7 per cent in the second quarter of the year, down from 37 per cent a year earlier.

Knight Frank, which concluded the global housing market is at its weakest since 2009, said similar patterns are emerging in India and China, which recorded quarterly price falls of 1.7 per cent and 0.1 per cent respectively.

"There are clear signs that Asian policy measures, aimed at cooling asset price growth are having some success," the report said.

Despite these more muted results, Asia continues to be the top-performing continent in terms of house price inflation - a position it has held for seven consecutive quarters.

More details at http://www.todayonline.com

Source : MediaCorp Press Ltd

Southeast Asia to see more investments from outside the region: DTZ

2011-09-06T11:52:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: As the debt problems in Europe and the US shift investor interest towards Asia Pacific, Southeast Asia could see more investments coming from outside the region. That is according to property consultants DTZ Research.

DTZ said most of the property investments in 2010 have already come from within the region.

In Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, where property investments are tracked by DTZ Research, intra-ASEAN investments made up 92.6 per cent of all foreign investments in the three countries in 2010.

According to a recent report by DTZ Research, the attractiveness of Southeast Asia's property markets is driven by six socio-economic trends. These are demographics, rising income levels, infrastructural developments, urbanisation, tourism and economic restructuring.

The large population base in ASEAN economies, except for Singapore, and growing wealth from sustained economic growth give rise to higher disposable incomes and domestic consumption, which in turn drive demand for real estate developments.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Surge of private wealth in Asia could lead to asset inflation, say experts

2011-09-06T11:47:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The amount of private wealth in Asia is estimated to triple to US$16 trillion by 2015, according to Swiss private bank Julius Baer's annual wealth report done jointly with CLSA. Some experts say the surge could lead to asset inflation problems for many governments.

And amid the current market volatility, Julius Baer said its clients in Asia have taken on more liquid positions in order to re-enter the market at a better opportunity.

Indonesia is set lead the region's growth over the next five years in the number of people with liquid assets worth more than US$1 million. That number is expected to triple to nearly 100,000. That is above average for the region, where it is predicted the wealthy will more than double to 2.82 million by 2015.

But experts warn that the explosion of Asian wealth could pose a problem, with investment options limited to mainly property and the share market.

Kelvin Tay, Chief Investment Strategist with UBS, said: "In Asia in this point of time, currently we do not have as many investment choices as you would probably do if you are in the west or the US right now. So you need to actually look at that seriously and consider how you can actually broaden the scope for investment solutions to be found to cater to this increasing wealth that is being generated.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Ryan Huang

CEA investigating 20 cases for infringement of ad guidelines

2011-09-06T11:33:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) is investigating some 20 possible cases of unethical advertising.

This comes one month after its new advertising guidelines for property agents came into effect on August 1.

CEA's director for regulatory control, Mr Lee Say Kee said dummy ads, which advertise fictional properties or properties which do not have the owner's consent remain the most serious.

Others include advertisements that omit important information such as the salesperson's registration and contact numbers.

CEA also said it has an in-house team to scan online property portals, classified ads and flyers.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Knight Frank launches Riviera Point for sale by tender

2011-09-06T11:21:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Real estate advisory firm Knight Frank has launched Riviera Point, a freehold site located along River Valley Road, for sale by tender.

It said the guide price for the property is S$70 million.

The site is located near the Orchard shopping belt, and has a land area of 14,580 square feet.

Knight Frank said the site may be redeveloped into a new project that could yield a gross floor area (GFA) of 49,303 square feet.

The tender for Riviera Point closes on September 29 at 3pm.

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Private home prices flat in July: NUS index

2011-08-31T08:38:00.003+08:00

SINGAPORE : The NUS Singapore Residential Price Index (SRPI) has shown that Singapore private home prices in July were flat, as compared to the previous month.

The overall index gained just 0.2 per cent from June, as the pace of price increase slowed.

Colin Tan, head of Research and Consultancy for Chesterton Suntec International, said this is mainly due to the global uncertainty over the US economy and the eurozone sovereign debt.

Mr Tan added that as long as this uncertainty persists, private home resale prices would likely remain flat over the next month or so.

Excluding small units with a floor area of 506 square feet or below, the index for properties in the central area was down 1.3 per cent, while non-central properties showed a 1.2 per cent increase.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Julie Quek

Property market quiet during Lunar 7th Month

2011-08-30T11:03:00.000+08:00

The Hungry Ghost Month this year also saw the lowest number of properties put up for sale since 1998.

Grace Ng, deputy managing director of Colliers International, explained: "This is mainly due to the current market conditions and buyers' sentiment, instead of the superstition associated with the Hungry Ghost Festival."

"The result of the government measures introduced since January this year has impacted the auction property market and reduced the number of residential properties put up for auction sale," she added.

Colliers International noted that many owners now prefer to rent out their properties to generate a better yield, as compared to depositing the money in the bank, which earns them an interest of less than one percent per annum.

Commenting on the current outlook, Ms Ng said that property buyers are holding back amid worries about a double-dip recession.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Amanda Heng

New Condo cum Mall by CapitaLand and CapitaMalls at junction of New Upper Changi Road and Bedok North Drive

2011-08-15T16:10:00.001+08:00

Bedok Town Centre at New Upper Changi Road / Bedok North Drive (location plan)

A new launch should come on the market soon. The 13-storey residential cum commercial unit, 583 apartments will be built above a one-stop family shopping mall. The integrated development will have direct access to the Bedok MRT station and a new air-conditioned bus interchange.

http://www.hdb.gov.sg/fi10/fi10297p.nsf/ImageView/CORPORATE_PR_15122009_BEDOK_P1/$file/Bedok+P1_location+plan.jpg

Made available under the Reserve List System of the Government Land Sales Programme. It spans 24,902 square metres, with a permissible gross floor area of 87,157 square metres.

The tender was closed with nine bidders in the fray, most of which put up offers far exceeding expectations.

The strong demand for the 99-year leasehold plot could have stemmed from the site’s retail potential and its proximity to Bedok MRT station.

A 50:50 joint venture between CapitaLand Residential Singapore and CapitaMalls Asia (CMA) submitted the top bid of $788.9 million or $841 per sq ft per plot ratio (psf ppr).

This is 21 per cent more than the second highest bid of $650.9 million or $694 psf ppr, placed jointly by a unit of Singapore Press Holdings’ Times Properties and a unit of United Engineers.

Frasers Centrepoint followed close behind with a bid of $650 million or $693 psf ppr. Other participants in the tender include Keppel Land, Choice Homes Investments and Sim Lian.

Bedok is one of Singapore’s largest HDB estates, with close to 294,500 residents. It is among the early HDB new towns and saw its first high-rises in the 1970s. The Town Centre will receive a complete facelift in the next three years, with the building of a new integrated public transport hub and private homes.

These new developments will stand on a plot that will also have space for commercial use totaling 35,000 sq m, which is about the size of Junction 8 shopping centre in Bishan. It is estimated that a mall on the site can fetch an average retail rent of $15-$27 psf per month, while apartments may go for around $1,100 per sq ft or more.

The dramatic change for residents will probably be the seamless linking of Bedok bus interchange to the MRT station and the building of a 13-storey residential cum commercial building with an estimated 583 private apartments beside the interchange. The Bedok Bus Interchange will receive a facelift in the fourth quarter of this year.

Residents welcomed the news that the bus interchange will be air-conditioned while property analysts foresee the apartments being snapped up by young couples and home upgraders.

Property analysts believe the area will also be rejuvenated as it now lacks new residential and commercial developments.

The project is expected to be fully completed in the first half of 2015.

If you want more information regarding this site, feel free to contact me.

CapitaLand's new Bedok development likely to draw HDB upgraders

2011-08-14T19:52:00.001+08:00

SINGAPORE : CapitaLand has said its new development at Bedok Town will likely attract potential buyers such as HDB upgraders.

Property analysts believe the area will also be rejuvenated as it now lacks new residential and commercial developments.

The Bedok Bus Interchange will receive a facelift in the fourth quarter of next year (2011). The bus interchange, together with a piece of land next to it, will be transformed and incorporated into a 13-storey residential cum commercial building.

CapitaLand's integrated development will have about 500 residential units, which make up about 60 per cent of the project. The remaining 40 per cent will be allocated to two basement levels of shopping area.

CapitaLand said the project will cater to about 300,000 residents living around the area, which is said to be the largest HDB estate in Singapore.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by May Wong

Unexpected Iskandar effect?

2011-08-11T17:39:00.001+08:00

Malaysia's ambitious Iskandar development in southern Johor may just have an unexpected spin-off effect that could eventually help ease Singapore's property market woes and ease its labour issues.

Ms Tan Ting Min, an analyst at Credit Suisse, said that, currently, the land price arbitrage between Singapore and Johor is 1:16. "How quickly this land price arbitrage narrows depends very much on how quickly Singaporeans adopt the idea of moving their manufacturing bases to Johor," she added (Amended 11 Aug 2011, 3.36 pm) s

Already, Singapore has invested about US$153 million into the services, education and health sector of the Iskandar Malaysia development.

Further down the line, this is expected to have a positive impact on the Singapore economy.

CIMB Research economist Song Seng Wun said: "If we have at our doorstep an increased pool of qualified knowledge base labour force, we may be able to tap on that pool, bring them to Singapore and add to Singapore's productivity growth prospect going forward."

More details at http://www.todayonline.com

Source : MediaCorp Press Ltd by Rachel Kelly

I want to be a Property Agent in Singapore

2011-08-06T22:03:00.002+08:00

Why be a Real Estate Agent in Singapore? Well you get :

Quality time with Family - You get to choose the time.
Be your own Boss - You make your own decisions.
Income ceiling that is uncapped - You write the amount.

How much can you expect to earn? The median income per month for 2010
of a top real estate company I was involved with was :

New Salesperson - $8,333 per month
Top 300 - $11,824 per month
Top 200 - $14,511 per month
Top 100 - $19,942 per month
Top 10 - $45,013 per month
Top Achiever - $97,346 per month

So how to be a Real Estate Agent in Singapore?

The regulatory body is administered by the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA), one of the registration criteria for individuals aspiring to be Real Estate Salespersons is that they must pass the CEA's Real Estate Salesperson (RES) examination or have equivalent qualification.

The registration criteria for a New Salesperson are as follows:

Must be at least 21 years old
Must have a minimum of 4 GCE 'O' Levels passes or equivalent
Possess a pass in the Real Estate Salesperson (RES) exam or equivalent
Be registered with only 1 Licensed Estate Agent (Real Estate Company)
Must not hold a moneylender's licence and not be an employee, director, or partner of a licensed moneylender
Undertake mandatory continuing professional development of at least 6 hours a year
Must be covered by a Professional Indemnity Insurance valid for at least one year from the commencement date of the registration
Must not be an undischarged bankrupt or have entered into a composition or scheme of arrangement with their creditors
Must not have any convictions in a court of law in any country.
Must not have any judgment that involved a finding of fraud, dishonesty or breach of fiduciary duties entered against them in civil proceedings
Must not have been detained under the Misuse of Drugs Act or served with a detention/police supervision order under the Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) Act
Has not been convicted of any offense under the Estate Agents Act

First thing to do is go register with any CEA Approved Course Providers for the RES Course :

* Institute of Estate Agents
charges: $1,048.60 (non-member) or $834.60 (member)
Contact Details : Tel No: 63231770
Website - www.iea.org.sg
Email.: courses@iea.org.sg
Office: 480 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, HDB Hub East Wing, #07-02, S(310480)

* Singapore Accredited Estate Agencies Ltd
Charges between $728(member) or $802 (non-member)
Contact Details : Tel No: 6293 6616
Website - www.saea.org.sg
Email.: edu@saea.org.sg
Office: 371 Beach Road, #12-11 Keypoint, S(199597)

Anyone who graduate from the following courses and issuing body, you can be exempted from taking the RES exam. (Please check with CEA for any changes and update)

Name of Qualifications and Issuing Body
Bachelor of Science (Real Estate), National University of Singapore
Bachelor of Science (Estate Management)
Bachelor of Real Estate (Property Management)
Bachelor of Real Estate (Valuation)
Diploma In Building Management, Ngee Ann Polytechnic
Diploma In Building and Real Estate Management
Diploma in Real Estate Business
Diploma In Property Development & Facilities Management, Singapore Polytechnic
Diploma In Building and Property Management

Note:

1. Holders of any diploma or higher academic qualification which has real estate as a major are advised to check with CEA whether they are required to take the RES examination.

2. Individuals who have passed all 3 examinations in General Practice by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) will be considered as having obtained equivalent qualification to the RES examination.

Real Estate Salesperson (RES) Examination

Once you've complete the RES course with 75% attendance, you'll be given a Certificate of Completion and you'll be able to register for the RES Exam. The RES Examination will be held on the 2nd weekend (Sat and Sun) of every month. The fee for each RES examination is $246.10 (inclusive of GST) per candidate, and $149.80 (inclusive of GST) per paper per candidate retaking the exam.

To apply for the examinations, register directly with CEA's Appointed Exam Administrators :

Informatics

Website: www.exam-registration.com
Tel : 6580 4582
Email: IAI@informaticseducation.com
Office: 133 Middle Road #04-01, Bank of China Plaza, Singapore 188974

NTUC LearningHub

Website: www.ntuclearninghub.com/res-exam
Tel : 6471 2223
Email: enquiries@ntuclearninghub.com
Office: 73 Bras Basah Road #02-01 Singapore 189556

For RES Examinations:

1. 2 papers each (2 ½ hours per paper)
2. Paper 1: 70 MCQs and 15 short answer questions (100 marks)
3. Paper 2: Part I: 60 MCQs (carries 60 marks)
Part II: 60 MCQs (max 40 marks)

Only when you pass both paper in the RES exams, can you apply for the salesperson license with Council of Estate Agency through Knight Frank. An annual fee of $299.60 is payable to CEA for this license through Knight Frank.

Joining Fees for Knight Frank is $252. The fees include Estate Agent Card with lanyard and card holder, your name cards, Access Card and Professional Indemnity Insurance.

We welcome Experienced and New Agents and have ready positions for core team in Local and Overseas Projects. Call Lawrence at 9853 3323 for a no obligation discussion today.

Grand Tower sold en bloc for S$88.5m

2011-08-06T11:34:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Grand Tower located near Novena MRT station was sold en bloc for S$88.5 million. This reflects a land rate of S$1,376 per square foot per plot ratio based on a plot ratio of 2.958.

Marketing agent for the site Savills said the buyer is 27MR Pte Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of boutique developer New Century Real Estate .

New Century Real Estate is also the developer for 8Rodyk condominium.

Grand Tower is a freehold development with a site area of 21,742 sq ft. The site can potentially accommodate a new high rise residential development with a maximum permissible Gross Floor Area of approximately 64,310 sq ft.

The site can potentially be redeveloped into a residential development comprising more than 70 apartments averaging 800 sq ft each.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Small developments to come under Housing Developers Act

2011-08-05T20:34:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Proposed changes to the Housing Developers (Control & Licensing) Act will cover all housing developers and not just those developing projects with more than four units.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) said this is to ensure that buyers of units in these smaller developments can also benefit from the protection accorded under the Act.

The suggestion was made during a month-long consultation exercise between March and April on proposed changes to the Act as well as the Housing Developers Rules (HDR).

URA will also amend the rules such that errant developers who have had their licences suspended will be blacklisted on URA's website.

The public also gave their thumbs-up to URA's proposed requirements for property developers to provide accurate information in the showflats and more information on the housing units to prospective home buyers.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

HDB to review model for rental housing scheme

2011-08-05T10:59:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE - The Housing and Development Board (HDB) is reviewing the leasing model for the Interim Rental Housing scheme, which was launched in 2009 to help needy families find temporary accommodation while waiting for permanent housing solutions.

Currently, these families live in housing blocks spread across the island which are slated for redevelopment. These blocks are leased to operators - such as EM Services and LHN Group - to manage.

While the scheme provides units for rent "at below market rates", the operators can decide how much to charge other tenants, who could be Singaporeans, permanent residents, students or those with employment or S-Pass permits.

About 1,400 of the 2,200 flats slated for redevelopment are offered at market rental rates, while 800 are set aside for interim rental housing.

Responding to Today's queries, the HDB said it "has drawn learning points from the current contracts" and more details will be made available once the review is complete. The HDB's response comes amid calls by at least two Members of Parliament (MPs) for the authority to review the scheme in view of the shortage of such units.

More details at http://www.todayonline.com

Source : MediaCorp Press Ltd by Leong Wee Kiat

Leave private homes prices to market forces: REDAS

2011-08-04T17:49:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: The Real Estate Developers' Association of Singapore (REDAS) said that prices of private homes should be left to market forces without any intervention from the government.

This is according to recently appointed REDAS president Wong Heang Fine.

Mr Wong, the CEO of CapitaLand Residential, replaced outgoing president Simon Cheong this February. Mr Cheong is the chairman of SC Global Developments.

This is not the first time REDAS has taken issue with government intervention in the residential sector.

Mr Wong said the private market accounts for only 15 per cent of the market and it should be given the opportunity to independently adjust to demand and supply conditions. He said that this was to avoid negative spillover effects on other sectors of the economy.

But he added developers welcome a more transparent property market.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Linette Lim

Buying residential property in Malaysia

2011-07-26T09:17:00.009+08:00

There is growing interest among Singaporeans in investing in residential properties outside the country following the fourth round of property market cooling measures announced in January.

The measures include increasing the holding period for the imposition of seller's stamp duty to four years and lowering the loan-to-value-limit to 60 per cent on second and subsequent mortgages.

With a bullish Singapore dollar, favourable financing terms, geographical proximity, similar culture and background and, most importantly, family ties, Malaysia remains one of the top favourite property investment destinations for Singaporeans.

To help first-time investors, here are some things you should know about buying a residential property in Malaysia.

Know the type of property you can own

More details at http://www.todayonline.com

Source : MediaCorp Press Ltd by Aileen Han

Years to correct supply-demand imbalance for HDB flats: Khaw

2011-07-25T09:09:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan said it will take 3 to 5 years to "substantively resolve" the problem of high resale flat prices and for prices to stabilise.

He said there is currently an imbalance between supply and demand - and new Build-To-Order (BTO) flats take three years to build.

Mr Khaw said this in response to questions from reporters on the sidelines of a community event on Sunday.

He also expressed confidence that resale flat prices will stabilise but stressed that the problem of high prices cannot be solved overnight. He urged Singaporeans to be patient.

On Friday, figures from the HDB showed prices rising by 3.1 per cent in the second quarter of this year, nearly twice the previous quarter's 1.6 per cent.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Joanne Chan

Prices of HDB resale flats up a steeper 3.1% in Q2

2011-07-23T11:26:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Prices of HDB resale flats rose a steeper 3.1 per cent in the second quarter compared to the 1.6 per cent increase seen in the first quarter.

The number of transactions rose by about 6 per cent to some 6,600.

HDB's Resale Price Index rose to 180.3 points in the second quarter from 174.8 points a quarter ago.

Analysts believe this is due to a supply crunch of resale flats. They said this is partly brought on by policy measures to cool down the private property sector.

An example is the lower 60 per cent Loan-To-Value limit on housing loans for individuals with existing housing loans at the time of the new housing purchase.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Linette Lim

Some tenants in arrears hold landlords to ransom

2011-07-21T19:57:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: With Singaporeans increasingly turning to renting out their apartments for extra income, more disputes are flaring up between landlords and tenants, according to lawyers and property agents. And it is not only the landlords who are giving their tenants headaches.

Anecdotally, complaints of landlords being held ransom by tenants in arrears and refusing to move out are increasing.

Property agent G Rajan told Today that three out of 10 rental disputes in the last two years he handled, were from landlords. He said: "It's a lot of legwork and time spent going after the tenant."

A recent case involve a couple who were unable to drive out their tenant.

Mr Poh Boon Kay, 62, and his wife got SP Services to terminate the utilities account on March 7, hoping that this would prompt their tenant to move out.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Esther Ng

Ming Arcade up for collective sale by tender

2011-07-21T19:49:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE : Ming Arcade, a prime freehold commercial development located off Orchard Road, is up for collective sale by tender.

The redevelopment site is zoned 'commercial' and majority-owned by Ong Beng Seng's property group, Hotel Properties Limited (HPL).

Located at 21 Cuscaden Road, Ming Arcade has a gross plot ratio of 4.2 and an allowable building height of 20 storeys.

It currently has 88 commercial or retail strata units of sizes varying from 140 square feet to 620 square feet.

As the site has an approved gross floor area of 55,046 square feet, no development charge is payable, according to sole marketing agent Jones Lang LaSalle.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Linette Lim

Khaw elaborates on BTO exercise

2011-07-18T10:24:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan has elaborated on who were the successful applicants in the Build-To-Order (BTO) exercises from January to March this year.

In his latest blog entry, Mr Khaw said when an application rate is about 2, which means two applicants for one unit, almost all applicants will get a chance to select. This is because not all who are asked to select do so.

For the January BTO, practically all first-timers got to select a flat. Even second-timers got an 84 per cent chance to select.

But when the application rate increased to 5 or 8, the chances fell significantly, especially for second-timers.

Mr Khaw said that the HDB is ramping up BTO launches to reduce the application rate, and hence raise the chances for applicants.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Time for action on home loan rates?

2011-07-15T18:21:00.000+08:00

Home loan rates are back in the news. In the latest move to maintain loan volumes in an uncertain market, at least two Singapore banks have reportedly been dangling some of the lowest rates, currently pegged at about 0.2 per cent to market benchmarks, on selected properties.

The offered mortgage rates are pegged against two commonly used benchmark interest rates. These are the Singapore interbank lending rate (Sibor) and the swap offer rate (SOR). The three-month Singapore dollar Sibor has been at a record low of 0.438 per cent since January, while the three-month SOR has moved between 0.189 and 0.3 per cent since April. It now stands at 0.21 per cent.

The fact that these deals have not been offered to the rest of the market yet and with the marketing kept low-profile, suggests that the banks themselves recognise that it would be counter-productive to engage in an open mortgage war at this time.

However, it may not be too long before this happens, given the global economic situation where at a recent meeting of the United States Federal Reserve, policy-makers discussed "Quantitative Easing Three". And Fed chairman Ben Bernanke said on Wednesday that further stimulus might be needed to help the US recovery.

Quantitative easing is a tool to try to revive the US economy by expanding the money supply via huge purchases of government bonds. If this happens, foreign investors are likely to head back to our region in a big way as they switch out of developed markets, such as the US and Europe, which have recently been spooked by concerns of slowing growth.

More details at http://www.todayonline.com

Source : MediaCorp Press Ltd by Colin Tan

Daisy Apartments up for en bloc

2011-07-12T22:20:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Daisy Apartments, a residential redevelopment site near Serangoon Gardens, is up for en bloc at an expected price of above S$14.5 million.

Property consultants Credo Real Estate said the freehold site is located at Daisy Road and has a land area of more than 13,000 square feet.

The land is zoned for Residential use at a plot ratio of 1.4 and an allowable height of up to five storeys.

All the owners of the 12-unit apartment development have signed a collective sale agreement to sell the property.

Credo said the potential buyer has the option of redeveloping the site to accommodate approximately 42 apartment units of average 500 square feet, depending on layout and configuration.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd by Jonathan Peeris

New rules to protect property buyers, sellers from rogue lawyers

2011-07-11T20:25:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE : New measures to better protect property buyers and sellers from rogue lawyers will kick in from August 1.

They are part of the Conveyancing (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill that was passed in Parliament in April and was gazetted on July 8.

The aim is to tighten safeguards for conveyancing money held by lawyers.

Lawyers will no longer be allowed to receive and hold such money in their normal client accounts.

Instead, the money must be held in special accounts, which will be offered by banks appointed by the Ministry of Law.

More details at http://www.channelnewsasia.com

Or call the conveyancing measures hotline at 6838 1289. www.conveyancing.sg

Source : MediaCorp Pte Ltd

Investor's Choice : Water Place Condominium for Sale

2011-07-07T14:04:00.001+08:00

Breathtaking view of Marina Bays Sands, Singapore Flyer and City. Watch beautiful Fireworks during festive celebrations.

View of Marina Bay Golf Course that's opposite Water Place.

Spacious Master bedroom with beautiful full height Windows to brighten room.

The Spacious Master Bedroom has another Window to take in the breeze between the built-in Wardrobe and Ensuite Bathroom.

Another view of the Ensuite in the Master Bedroom with Aircon split-unit and entrance on the right.

Premium Marble Flooring with quality Timber flooring for Bedrooms.

A private walkway leading to all the 4 Bedrooms seen here.

Bedroom 1 spacious enough for a Queen-sized bed and writing table plus built-in wardrobes. Seen here with the Morning Sun coming diagonally.

Bedroom 2 with Super-single bed.

Common Bathroom 1.

Powder Room 2 by the Living area.

Adequate Storeroom.

Bathroom 3 in the Kitchen wash area.

Wash area as seen from the Kitchen. The 2 doors on the right is the Bathroom 3 and Storeroom. The door on the left leads to the Study.

The Study which can be converted as a 5th room. Door leads to the wash area in the Kitchen.

Spanking clean Kitchen.

Kitchen from other angle looking out to Dining area.

Kitchen from another angle with sufficient storage.

Bright Living area with full-height windows.

Family area spacious enough for a piano.

Another angle of the spacious Living.

The Dining area overlooking the Living.

Water Place is a distinctive landmark condominium nestled in Tanjong Rhu, along the East Coast of Singapore and our very own Gold Coast. It's distinctive architectural design and "Hawaiian inspired" landscaping and lagoon pool are a feast for the senses.

Refesh and rejuvenate in Water Place's resort-like ambience with spectacular views of the Singapore River, new Marina Bay Financial District and Integrated Resort.

Home at Water Place feels like a never-ending holiday. Allow their warm Jacuzzis to melt your traces of stress away, enjoy an ivigorating dive into the aqua-aerobic cum scuba diving training pool and experience the ultimate in relaxation with their spa treatment and steam rooms.

With an extensive range of lifestyle amenities that include barbeque pits, tennis courts, karaoke lounge and children's pool, Water Place propels resort-living to greater heights.

Location : 177 Tanjong Rhu Road

Total No. of Units : 7 Towers with a total of 437 units with 99 years leasehold.
Facilities :

Cascading Pool,
Children Pool,
Aqua Aerobics Pool,
Water Play Equipment Pool,
Jacuzzi,
Foot Reflexology,
Fitness Area,
Gymnasium,
Putting Green,
Two Tennis Courts,
Children Playground,
Jogging Track
and BBQ Pavilions.

Amenities : Close to

Boulevard MRT station,
Kallang Theatre,
Singapore Indoor Stadium
and Future Sports Hub.

Close proximity to

Marina Golf Course,
East Coast Park,
Future Gardens by the Bay,
Esplande Theatres on the Bay,
Marina Bay Financial Centre,
Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resorts,
Singapore Flyer,
Central Business District
and Changi International Airport

For photos of Condo facilities click here

This rare 1561 sq ft unit is for Sale at S$2,030,000 with four bedrooms plus a study and a storeroom. Total of four toilets. For Investors info, units of this size are asking for S$6,000 for rental.

Expat's Choice : The Clift Condominium for Lease

2011-07-01T20:04:00.001+08:00

The Clift at 21 McCallum Street.

Nearby to Chinatown as the street sign stated.

Guardian store just below.

A 7Eleven store just across the road.

Amoy Street Food Centre is across the street.

The View.

Another view.

More view.

The Facilities

Kitchen

Bathroom

Sunken bath

Profile of resale HDB flat buyers

2011-06-26T14:29:00.000+08:00

Data of the 2,162 resale HDB transactions closed in May 2011, released by Minister Khaw Boon Wan.

Flat Type	Permanent residents	Private property owners	1st timers	2nd timers	Singles	Overall
Breakdown (%)	20%	8%	23%	34%	15%	100%
3-room or smaller	21%	10%	24%	37%	51%	31%
4-room	45%	23%	36%	36%	36%	37%
5-room or larger	34%	67%	40%	27%	13%	32%

New Launch : SkySuites @ Anson

2011-03-17T10:01:00.001+08:00

Launch of Skysuites @ Anson Sunday, 20th March 2011.

Why SkySuites @ Anson

Following the within 1 day sell-out success of 76 Shenton Way, Dorsett Residences, Robinson Suites, Spottiswoode Residences, Spottiswoode 18. SkySuites @ Anson would possibly be the same.

You can expect superb capital appreciation with the development of the new Tanjong Pagar area and Waterfront City. And directly profit from the nearby redevelopment of Malayan Railway into a commercial and entertainment belt at your door step and walk within minutes from your condo to the new Waterfront City.

A development by Allgreen Properties, Skysuites @ Anson is set to be the tallest residential building in Singapore with 72 storey located in the heart of the Central Business District, only a short walk to the Tanjong Pagar MRT station.

Developed with the discerning city dwellers in mind, all apartments in Skysuites are meticulously thought out by the design team to be fully efficient and stylish. A full kitchen that can be totally tucked away when not in use; fully equipped with designer appliances from German brand Bloomberg. Designs well thought to incorporate everyday-essentials like ironing boards and waste bins into the entire sleek design. Bathrooms designed as stylish as any 5-star Hotel. Entertainment facilities on the 7th, 31st, 56th and 72nd storeys.

Developer :	Allgreen Properties (Arcadia Development Pte Ltd)
Property Type :	360 Condominium units with 5 Commercial units on 1st storey
Development Name :	SkySuites @ Anson (8 Enggor Street District 2)
Tenure :	99 years leasehold (from 18 Feb 2008)

Expected Vacant Possession :	Novermber 2015
Site Area :	30,011 Sq Ft
Carpark Lots :	360 Residential and 15 Commercial

1 Bedroom	A1, A2, A3 : 366sf - 506sf 160 units
2 Bedrooms	B1, B2 : 667 sf - 700sf 156 units
3 Bedrooms	C1, C2 : 958sf - 1141sf 40 units
Penthouse	C3A, C3B, C4 : 1001sf - 1411sf 4 units

Indicative Pricing

1 bedroom from $730K
2 bedroom from $1.25M to $1.7M
3 Bedroom from $2.6M to $2.9M

Commercial Units Indicative Pricing

#01-01 : 21 sqm / 226 sqft
#01-02 : 17 sqm / 182 sqft
#01-03 : 30 sqm / 322 sqft
#01-04 : 30 sqm / 322 sqft
#01-05 : 41 sqm / 441 sqft

$4000 to $4500psf. Developer prefers single buyer.

Designer appliances and fittings

Kitchen appliances : Bloomberg (Germany)
Sanitary wares : Duravit (Germany)
Sanitary fittings & accessories : Damixa (Denmark)
Bath accessories : Damixa / Duravit
Bath vanity : Stone Finish

Property Facilities :

7th storey

Swimming pool, kids pool, lap pool, bubble pool, jacuzzi, ecopond, tennis court, multifunction room, gymnasium, changing rooms, management room, BBQ pit, landscaping

31st storey

Fitness alfresco (outdoor gym)’Wi-fi and artists corner’ Kids playground, games loft and billiard bar, reading alcoves and hangout corners, trellis on illuminated garden, landscaping

56th storey

Relaxation zone (wet and dry hammock area), flower garden and sculpture court, oriental garden, jacuzzi, rain shower area, dining gallery, pantry, elemental courtyard (day bed, yoga court), landscaping

Roof sky terrace storey

Themed garden

Upper roof storey

Viewing area, outdoor bar, seating areas, dining lounge, pocket gardens, bubble lift

Expat's Choice : Water Place Condominium for Lease

2011-03-14T17:59:00.001+08:00

The Beautiful view of Marina Baby Sands Integrated Resorts seen from the Common Rooms

Another Beautiful view of Koi Pond seen from the Common Rooms

The Living Room with marble flooring, full-height windows, split-unit airconditioning and ceiling fan.

The view of Kallang River and Pebble Bay Condominium as seen from the Living Room

A view of the Security Entrance and Tennis Court overlooking Pebble Bay Condominium seen from the Living Room

The Master Bedroom with Full-height windows for a well lit ambiance

The Resort-like Pool as seen from the Master Bedroom

Another view of the Master Bedroom, seen here is entrance on the right leading to the Ensuite and the built-in Wardrobe. Split-unit air-conditioning and Ceiling Fan included

Master Bedroom En suite Bathroom with Hair Dryer and Long Bath

View of the Kitchen. Door on the left leads to the Laundry Yard, Storeroom and Toilet

View of the Kitchen. Cooker Hob and Hood complete with Oven and storage

The Dining Area is on it's own separated from the Living, complete with Split-unit air-conditioning and Ceiling Fan

View from the Dining Area of the entrance to two Common Rooms and Bathroom

One Common Room with Timber flooring, Built-in Wardrobe, Split-unit Air-conditioning and Ceiling Fan overlooking the Common Bathroom

Water Place is a distinctive landmark condominium nestled in Tanjong Rhu, along the East Coast of Singapore and our very own Gold Coast. It's distinctive architectural design and "Hawaiian inspired" landscaping and lagoon pool are a feast for the senses.

Refesh and rejuvenate in Water Place's resort-like ambiance with spectacular views of the Singapore River, new Marina Bay Financial District and Integrated Resort.

Home at Water Place feels like a never-ending holiday. Allow their warm Jacuzzi s to melt your traces of stress away, enjoy an invigorating dive into the aqua-aerobic cum scuba diving training pool and experience the ultimate in relaxation with their spa treatment and steam rooms.

With an extensive range of lifestyle amenities that include barbeque pits, tennis courts, karaoke lounge and children's pool, Water Place propels resort-living to greater heights.

Location : 179 Tanjong Rhu Road

Total No. of Units : 7 Towers with a total of 437 units with 99 years leasehold.
Facilities :

Cascading Pool,
Children Pool,
Aqua Aerobics Pool,
Water Play Equipment Pool,
Jacuzzi,
Foot Reflexology,
Fitness Area,
Gymnasium,
Putting Green,
Two Tennis Courts,
Children Playground,
Jogging Track
and BBQ Pavilions.

Amenities : Close to

Boulevard MRT station,
Kallang Theatre,
Singapore Indoor Stadium
and Future Sports Hub.

Close proximity to

Marina Golf Course,
East Coast Park,
Future Gardens by the Bay,
Esplande Theatres on the Bay,
Marina Bay Financial Centre,
Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resorts,
Singapore Flyer,
Central Business District
and Changi International Airport

For photos of Condo facilities click here

This High Floor 1216 sq ft unit is available immediately for lease at S$4,300 per month with three bedrooms plus a storeroom. Total of three toilets.

OneMap School Query

2011-03-10T10:53:00.000+08:00

Petrol prices now over $2 a litre | Discussion Forum | Your Say | REACH

2011-03-08T17:44:00.000+08:00

Petrol prices now over $2 a litre | Discussion Forum | Your Say | REACH

All petrol grades have hit 2 ½-year highs at over $2 a litre. A litre of the cheapest grade, the 92-octane petrol, is now $2.017 while the 95 grade costs $2.077, and the 98-octane, between $2.13 and $2.15.

Inspection a fortune fall-down in Ireland

2011-03-08T16:38:00.000+08:00

Inspection a fortune fall-down in Ireland

If one man could epitomise Ireland's descent into debt, it is Simon Kelly, the developer who was worth a billion euros at the height of the property boom but now owes a cool 88 million.

New Home Launches of 2010 to 2011

2010-12-20T14:03:00.002+08:00

According to data released by the Singapore Government, some 15,025 new private homes were sold during the first 11 months of 2010, an all-time record, exceeding the 2007 record of 14,811 units.

Strong economic growth and rising wages will fuel demand for mass-market homes, with collective sales providing another source of development land in 2011.

PROJECT	ROAD	DEVELOPER	DIST	UNITS	TEN	LAUNCHED
Marina Bay Suites	Central Blvd	Cheung Kong (Hldgs) Ltd, HK Land, Keppel Land Ltd	01	221	99	Apr 2010 but later on hold. Sold more than 120 units. Prices at $2167 psf to $3133 psf.
SkySuites @ Anson	Enggor Street	Allgreen Properties	02	360	99
Spottiswoode Residences	Spottiswoode Pk Road	UOL	02	351	FH	Sold more than 130 units. Prices from $1720 psf to $2150 psf.
Altez	Enggor St	Far East Org	02	280	99	Feb 10. Sold more than 171 units.
Former Fairways Condo	Telok Blangah Road	Bukit Sembawang	04	283	FH
Reflections @ Keppel Bay	Keppel Bay View	Keppel Land Ltd	04	1129	99	Jun 07. Sold more than 778 units.
The Residences at W	Sentosa Cove	City Developments	04	228	99	Mar 10. Sold more than 21 units.
Seascape	Sentosa Cove	Far East Org	04	151	99	Mar 10. Sold more than 36 units.
The Interlace	Depot Rd	CapitaLand	04	1040	99	Sep 09. Sold more than 588 units. Median price $1050 psf
The Vision	West Coast Cres	Cheung Kong (Hldgs) Ltd	05	295	99	Mar 10. Sold 295 units. Median price $1050 psf
Concourse Skyline	Beach Rd	Hong Fok Land	07	360		Sep 08. Sold more than 216 units.
Cityscape at Farrer Park	Mergui Road	IOI and KSH Holdings	08	250	FH	Oct 10. Sold more than 32 units. Priced at $1300 psf to $1550 psf.
Bishopgate Residences	Bishopgate/Nathan Rd	Kajima Overseas Asia PL	09	31	FH
Helios Residences	Cairnhill Circle	Wing Tai Holdings	09	140	FH
Killiney 118	Killiney Road	Amara Group	09	30	FH
iLiv @ Grange	Grange Road	Heeton Holdings	09	30	FH	Launched, priced above $3000 psf.
Twin Peaks	Leonie Hill Rd	OUE	09	462	99	Sep 10. Sold more than 34 units.
Le Nouvel Ardmore	Ardmore Park	Wing Tai Holdings	09	43	FH
Paterson Suites	Paterson Road	Bukit Sembawang	09	102	FH
Suites At Orchard	Handy Road	Allgreen Properties	09	118	99	Sold more than 80 units. Median price $2140 psf.
The Vermont on Cairnhill	Cairnhill Rise	Bukit Sembawang	09	158	FH	Apr 10. Sold more than 44 units. Median price $2181
Tomlinson Heights	Tomlinson Road	Hotel Properties Ltd	09	70	FH	Private Preview
TwentyOne Angulia Park	Angulia Park	China Sonangol Land PL	09	54	FH
Urban Resort Condominium	Cairnhill Road	CapitaLand	09	64	FH
Hilltops	Cairnhill Circle	SC Global Dev	09	241	FH	Sep 07. Sold more than 31 units.
Scotts Square	Scotts Rd	Wheelock Properties (S) PL	09	338	FH	Jul 07. Sold more than 236 units.
Ardmore 3	Ardmore Park	Wheelock Properties (S) PL	10	84	FH
D' Leedon	Leedon Heights	Capitaland and others	10	1715	99	Dec 10. Sold more than 232 units.
The Nassim	Nassim Hill	CapitaLand	10	55	FH
Treasure on Balmoral	Balmoral Road	Hiap Hoe Group	10	48	FH
UnNamed Development	Holland Link	Clydesbuilt(Holland Link)PL	10	82	99
Ascentia Sky	Alexandra View	Wing Tai Holdings	10	373	99	Jul 09. Sold more than 264 units.
The Glyndebourne	Dunearn Road	Copthorne Orchid Hotel (CDL)	11	150	FH	Sold more than 112 units. Median price $2149 psf.
Former Diamond Tower	Jalan Rajah	EL Development	12	115	FH
RiverBay	Mar Thoma Road	Allgreen Properties	12	147	999
Riviera 38	Mar Thoma Road	Allgreen Properties	12	102	999
Vacanza @ East	Lengkong Tujoh	Hoi Hup Sunway Properties PL	14	473	FH	Sep 10. Sold more than 208 units. Median price $1081 psf.
Waterbank @ Dakota	Dakota Crescent	UOL Group Ltd	14	616	99	Apr 10. Sold 615 units. Median price $1150 psf
Flamingo Valley	Siglap Rd	Frasers Centrepoint Homes	15	393	FH	May 10. Sold more than 89 units.
Silversea	Marine Parade Rd	Far East Org	15	383	99	Sep 08. Sold more than 252 units.
Waterfront Gold	Bedok Reservoir Rd	Far East Org	16	361	99	Jun 10. Sold more than 242 units.
Waterview	Tampines Ave 1	Sim Lian Group Ltd	18	696	99	Nov 10. Sold more than 376 units. Median price $903 psf.
NV Residences	Pasir Ris Grove	City Developments Ltd	18	642	99	Sep 10. Sold more than 463 units. Median price $860 psf
Esparina Residences	Compassvale Bow	Fraser Centrepoint Homes	19	573	99	Sold more than 425 units.
The Minton	Hougang St 11	Kheng Leong	19	1145	99	May 10. Sold more than 482 units. Median price $865 psf
The Scala	Serangoon Ave 3	Hong Leong Holdings	19	468	99	Jul 10. Sold 468 unts. Median price $1170 psf
UnNamed Development	Simei Street 3	CEL Development	19	300	99
Centro Residences	Ang Mo Kio Ave 8	Far East Org	20	329	99	Jul 09. Sold more than 156 units.
The Cascadia	Bukit Timah Rd	All Green Properties	21	536		Aug 07. Sold more than 360 units.
Lakefront Residences	Lakeside Drive	Keppel Land Ltd	22	629	99	Nov 10. Sold more than 437 units. Median price $1075 psf
UnNamed Development	Westwood Avenue	Kheng Leong	22	93	99
The Lanai	Hillview Avenue	Far East Organization	23	214	999	Oct 10. Sold more than 85 units. Median price $1295 psf.
Pavilion Park	Bukit Batok Rd	All Green Properties	23	311	FH	Nov 07. Sold more than 185 units.
Tree House	Chestnut Ave	City Developments Ltd	23	429	99	Apr 10. Sold 429 units. Median price $835 psf
The Canopy	Yishun Avenue 11	MCC Land	27	406	99	Oct 10. Sold more than 185 units.
The Estuary	Yishun Avenue 1	MCL Land	27	608	99	Feb 10. Sold 608 units. Median price $765 psf
UnNames Development	Canberra Dr/Yishun Avenue 7	Fraser Centrepoint Homes	28	680	99

Wanted, seeking Owners and Landlords.

2010-11-20T16:34:00.002+08:00

We have ready clients seeking to buy and rent Condos, Landed Homes and Offices in Central and East of Singapore.

If you're a Owner or Landlord seeking buyers and tenants for your investments, call now and we'll match you with our pool of clients with cash and ready to commit.

Pick up the phone and dial 98533323 to ask for Lawrence

S/N	BUY / RENT	PROJECT / DISTRICT	ROOMS	SQ FT	BUDGET	REMARKS
1	Buy	Condo / Apt	2 + 1		$800,000	Pool
2	Buy	Condo Bedok to Redhill	2 to 3		$750,000	EW mrt
3	Buy	The Sail	1	624	$1,500,000	Stack 20
4	Buy	Pebble Bay	3	1894	$2,300,000
5	Buy	Waterside		2411	$3,000,000
6	Rent	International Plaza	2	1400	$5,500
7	Rent	Emerald Garden	3	1259	$5,500
8	Buy	One Shenton	1	614	$1,250,000
9	Rent	The Beacon	3	1400	$5,300
10	Rent	The Arris	1	786	$4,000
11	Buy	The Clift	1	527	$1,030,000
12	Rent	The Lumiere	1	678	$4,300
13	Rent	Icon	1	581	$4,200
14	Rent	The Sail	1	614	$4,500
15	Rent	Marina Bay Res	1	732	$4,800

Expat's Choice : Lumiere

2010-11-16T13:47:00.001+08:00

Lumiere, a beacon of lights, a place where Expats live, work and play

A 45 Storey Tower, illuminated in the evening with colourful LED lighting hence its name "Lumiere" (Light in French)

The first approved project in CBD by URA under the new lighting scheme (Light Up our City Centre) The roofline, a bold statement of the skyline showcases two upward seeping curves suggesting the movement of 2 hands reaching to the sky, a dynamic gesture. The two glass curves give a poise definition to the form of the building. The architecure is dynamic and at the same time depicting a sense of elegance.

Staggered balcony - a play of the facacde to break away from the rigidity of the office like neighbours. Randomness gives a unique texture to the facade.

Development it is specially designed to create an environment which suits the dual usage - Small Office / Home Office, (SOHO).

Unit General Layout, Design and Features

A north-south orientation allows for full-height glass and or bay windows, increasing natural light and creating opportunities for residents to take advantage of natural ventilation.

The layout of every unit is specifically designed for dual usage. Layouts are very flexible and easily converted to office or a SOHO to suit individual requirements.

A full range of appliances are provided including hood, hub, fridge, washer cum dryer and microwave oven.

Every kitchen is designed in a clean one-line manner to enhance a modern clean touch at the same time allowed for flexibility.

Situated near the coast line, every unit comes with at least one balcony. A special design feature which allows residents to enjoy the view of the tranquil sea. For office users, it is a unique element which is rare in traditional office environment.

Consultants

Architect : P&T Consultants Pte Ltd
M&E Consultant : J Roger Preston (S) Pte Ltd
Interior Consultant : Warner Wong Design
Structural consultant : RSP Architects Planners and Engineers Pte Ltd
Quantity Surveyor : Davis Langdon & Seah Singapore Pte Ltd

Developer : Bs Shenton Pte Ltd
Address : 2 Mistri Road Singapore 079624
Project Description : 45 Storey block with 6 1/2-sty podium carpark, commercial on 1st storey recreational facilities on the 8th floor and sky garden on the 34th flr.
Tenure : 99 years wef 21 Mar 06
Site Area : about 15,000 sqft
Expected TOP Date : 31st Dec 2011
No of block : 1
No of residential units : 168 units
No of units per floor : 5
No of Lifts : 3
No of Carpark Lots : 136 units

Studio 33 units
Type A - 560sf
Type Aa/Ab - 506sf

1 Bed+Study: 99 units
Type B1 - 678sf
Type B1a - 624sf
Type B1b - 635 sf
Type B1c - 646sf
Type B2 - 775sf
Type B2a/B2b - 678sf
Type B3- 711sf
Type B3a - 678sf

2 bedroom : 33 units
Type C - 1238sf
Type Ca - 969sf
Type Ca-1 - 990sf

Total Shop Units : 4

Location

Lumiere is situated right in between the two exciting hotspots - Marina Bay Sands and Integrated resort at Sentosa
Stone's throw away from all the important financial instituation and professional centres in CBD.
Exciting shopping centres and entertainment hubs are steps away.
Prominence of site from ECP
Easy access to MRT (Tanjong Pagar Station) and bus transportation system.

Recreational Facilities

-Infinitiy Pool (20m)
-Jacuzzi
-Tennis Court
-Basketball Half Court
-Floating Gym
-Multi-Function Room
-Star Gazing Deck
-Floating Lounge
-Sky Viewing Garden on the 34th Floor
-Wireless Connection on Recreational Deck and Sky Garden

Common Facilities

-Despite situated within the city centre, residents of Lumiere have the luxury of enjoying the full condominium facilites including a tennis court and basketball half court which is a rarity in most of the development nowadays.
-Sky Garden at 34 storey allows resident to nip upstair to unwind and enjoy the spectacular harbour and city view.
-Sky Garden and the podium both have wireless broadband connectivity allowing the busy executives to get connected while working out.
-Carpark - will be on "Pay As You Use" basis. Resident who do not drive will not be imposed for carpark charges under monthly manintenance fees.
-E-directory System At the Main Lobby Area- Lumiere is positioned iteself as SOHO-concept living, resident who wishes to display their company names, may make use of the system.

Applicances and Fittings

1) Kitchen Hood & Hob (De Dietrich)
2) Microwave Oven (De Dietrich)
3) Fridge (Electrolux)
4) Washing Machine cum dryer (Brandt)
5) Kitchen and Bath Mixers (Damixa)

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Commercial Units Indicative Pricing

#01-01 : 21 sqm / 226 sqft
#01-02 : 17 sqm / 182 sqft
#01-03 : 30 sqm / 322 sqft
#01-04 : 30 sqm / 322 sqft
#01-05 : 41 sqm / 441 sqft