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Chiu Teng Group’s new freehold development, CT Pemimpin, is set to be a game changer in land-scarce Singapore. As a renowned developer of high-quality commercial and industrial spaces, the launch of CT Pemimpin is expected to be a delight for property investors and business owners.

Located at 43 Jalan Pemimpin in the Central Region, CT Pemimpin is a nine-storey, partial ramp-up factory that comprises 56 strata-titled units and three canteen units. The units on the first and fifth floors boast mezzanine floors with floor heights ranging from 5.6m to 7.35m.

One of the most attractive features of CT Pemimpin is its rare freehold status, which sets it apart from most industrial developments in the market that are limited to a 30-year or 60-year lease. This makes it an ideal investment asset for both investors and end-users, especially since commercial and industrial properties do not incur Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD).

When considering real estate investments, location plays a crucial role, and this is particularly important in Singapore. Condominiums situated in central areas or close to essential amenities like schools, shopping malls, and public transportation hubs tend to have a higher appreciation in value. Prime locations in Singapore, such as Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the Central Business District (CBD), have consistently shown strong growth in property values. Families also seek condos in these areas due to their proximity to reputable schools and educational institutions, making them even more desirable investments. In addition, be sure to keep an eye out for upcoming New Condo Launches in these sought-after locations.

CT Pemimpin also offers a generous one-to-one carpark ratio, with 59 carpark lots, including two electrical vehicle lots, three lorry lots, two handicapped lots and 34 bicycle lots. In addition, the development is served by two passenger lifts and a service lift, and every unit is equipped with its own private toilet for convenience.

According to Kelvin Fong, Deputy CEO of PropNex Realty, “Being a freehold development in a centralised location, CT Pemimpin is a good investment asset for both investors and end-users.”

The centralised location of CT Pemimpin adds to its appeal, as it is situated in District 20, a popular area for buyers and tenants. It offers easy access to a range of amenities in well-established townships like Bishan, Upper Thomson, and Ang Mo Kio. The development is also strategically located, with excellent accessibility and connectivity to all parts of Singapore through various public transport modes.

Doris Ong, Deputy CEO of ERA, notes that owning a freehold property in Singapore’s central region is not just a smart investment, but also a strategic business asset. “With a sought-after location, unparalleled connectivity, and long-term growth potential, CT Pemimpin is an impressive corporate address that makes it an ideal choice for businesses,” says Ong.

CT Pemimpin is located just a short walk from the Marymount MRT station, and is also accessible via the Upper Thomson and Bishan MRT stations. It is also easily accessible for motorists, being close to major expressways like the PIE and CTE. The development is a mere eight-minute drive from Novena and a 15-minute drive from Orchard Road. Additionally, the upcoming North-South Corridor, scheduled for completion in phases from 2027, will further enhance connectivity and reduce travel time.

The area surrounding CT Pemimpin offers a good mix of retail and dining options, with popular shopping hubs like Junction 8, Thomson Plaza, Velocity@Novena Square, AMK Hub, NEX, Woodleigh Mall, and Toa Payoh HDB Hub just minutes away. It is also close to reputable schools like Raffles Institution, Catholic High School, and Eunoia Junior College.

CT Pemimpin will also have a range of green features, such as end-of-trip facilities like shower rooms, bicycle racks, and storage lockers. Other eco-friendly features include a sky garden with two rooftop pavilions, and plans for rooftop solar panels and EV charging stations. The development will also feature water-saving fittings, motion-sensor lighting, and double-glazed windows in selected units, as well as a recycling corner.

Mark Yip, CEO of Huttons Asia, says that “with its focus on sustainability, CT Pemimpin aims to shape a greener and more committed future. Its superior specifications make it the perfect choice for various industries like e-commerce, media, telecommunications, and software development.”

Chiu Teng Group, established in 1999, is a reputable developer and builder with a proven track record in the industrial and commercial sectors. Previous successful developments include CT FoodNEX, CT Foodchain, The Creek@Bukit, Tagore8, and CT Hub & Hub 2.

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

ERA has announced the upcoming auction of a pair of adjoining retail units located on the third floor of Sim Lim Square. The auction, scheduled for February 27, will feature a total guide price of $3.38 million for the two units.

The larger unit, measuring 958 square feet, has a guide price of $2.08 million ($2,171 per square foot), while the smaller unit, measuring 570 square feet, has a guide price of $1.28 million ($2,246 per square foot). This is the first time these units will be featured on ERA’s auction listings, as they are currently being sold by the owner. They can be purchased together or separately.

According to Alison Lee, assistant vice president of auction and sales at ERA, the units are priced competitively below the market average to encourage a quick sale. Retail units at Sim Lim Square have transacted at an average price of $2,997 per square foot in the last 12 months, according to EdgeProp Singapore’s analytical tools. The most recent transaction at the development was for a 592 square foot shop on the ground floor, which was sold for $1.92 million ($3,241 per square foot) in December 2024.

In Singapore, investing in condos comes with an important consideration – the government’s property cooling measures. Over time, the Singaporean government has implemented different measures to control speculative buying and maintain a steady real estate market. These measures include the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which levies higher taxes on foreign buyers and those buying multiple properties. Although these measures may affect the immediate profitability of condo investments, they also contribute to the long-term stability of the market, making it a secure investment environment. Additionally, Singapore Projects offer investors the opportunity to diversify their portfolio and take advantage of the country’s thriving real estate market.

Sim Lim Square is known as a tech hub, with a focus on electronics, gadgets, and computer parts. The development also houses a variety of other businesses, including eateries and traditional Chinese medicine shops. Both retail units currently for sale are tenanted and generate an estimated monthly rental income of $4.50 per square foot. Rental data compiled by EdgeProp Singapore shows that retail units at Sim Lim Square yield between $4.20 and $7.30 per square foot per month on a rolling 12-month average.

The owners of Sim Lim Square attempted a collective sale in April 2019, but the tender was launched at a reserve price of $1.25 billion and later relaunched in December 2019 at the same price without any success. A new collective sale committee is being formed to explore the possibility of another attempt in the near future.

Sim Lim Square, located on a 78,152 square foot site on Rochor Canal Road in District 7, was completed in 1987. It has a 99-year land tenure that began in 1983 and houses 492 retail and office units across six floors and two basement levels. It is within walking distance of Rochor and Jalan Besar MRT Stations and the Bugis MRT Interchange that connects the East-West and Downtown Lines.…

Chiu Teng Group has recently launched their latest project, CT Pemimpin, a freehold B1 industrial factory situated at 43 Jalan Pemimpin in the Central Region. This project is a testament to the Group’s expertise in developing high-quality commercial and industrial spaces in Singapore.

Located in the highly sought-after District 20, CT Pemimpin boasts an enviable location that offers excellent accessibility to companies in search of a prime site, as well as property investors looking for a rare permanent investment opportunity.

The nine-storey factory is partially ramp-up and features communal facilities such as two rooftop pavilions, perfect for outdoor gatherings, rooftop solar panels, two passenger lifts, and a service lift. With a total of 56 strata-titled units and three canteen units, the factory has floor heights ranging from 5.6m to 7.35m on selected units, with mezzanine floors on levels one and five. Each individual unit is equipped with toilets for the convenience and privacy of its occupiers.

One of the standout features of CT Pemimpin is its generous one-to-one carpark ratio, with 59 carpark lots, including two EV lots. This ensures ample parking space for vehicles. In addition, the factory also has two loading and unloading bays and a lorry park to cater to vehicles of less than 7.5m.

According to Marcus Chu, CEO of ERA Singapore, CT Pemimpin will appeal to both property investors and end-users. As there is no Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) on industrial properties, it serves as an attractive investment option for those looking for diversification. On the other hand, end-users, especially business owners, prefer owning their own space rather than renting, and CT Pemimpin provides a rare freehold option.

Ken Low, managing partner of SRI, also notes that CT Pemimpin has a sleek modern facade and a central location, making it appealing to a wider range of investors and end-users compared to traditional B1 industrial developments in the market. Its proximity to Marymount and Bishan sub-regional centres, as well as its location near various amenities and reputable schools, makes CT Pemimpin an attractive option for young entrepreneurs and their staff.

Investing in a condominium in Singapore comes with a range of advantages, with one of the most attractive being its potential for capital appreciation. This can be attributed to Singapore’s favorable location as a thriving business hub on the global stage, as well as its stable economy that leads to a consistent demand for real estate. Throughout the years, the real estate market in Singapore has shown a steady increase, with condos in prime locations experiencing significant appreciation. For savvy investors who time their purchases right and hold onto their properties for the long term, they can expect substantial gains in capital. It’s also wise to keep an eye out for new condo launches, as these developments often present fantastic opportunities for investors to enter the market at its peak. To stay updated on the latest opportunities, you can also visit New Condo Launches.

One of the most outstanding selling points of CT Pemimpin is its freehold status, which is a rarity in today’s market where most industrial developments have a 30-year or 60-year lease. This makes it a highly sought-after asset for investors, including family offices and companies in the information and communications media industry, who prefer freehold properties.

Furthermore, commercial and industrial properties are not subject to ABSD by the government, making them more attractive to investors and foreigners eligible to purchase properties in Singapore.

CT Pemimpin’s strategic location makes it easily accessible from all parts of Singapore through public and private transport. The industrial estate is just a five-minute walk from Marymount MRT station and a short drive from major expressways such as PIE and CTE. The upcoming North-South Corridor will also enhance its connectivity, reducing travel time from the north to the city.

In addition, CT Pemimpin is surrounded by vibrant townships like Bishan, Upper Thomson, and Ang Mo Kio, offering a range of shopping and dining options at popular malls such as Junction 8, Thomson Plaza, and NEX. It is also within close proximity to renowned schools like Raffles Institution, Catholic High School, and Eunoia Junior College, making it convenient for parents to drop off their children before heading to work.

Chiu Teng Group has a reputable track record as a reliable property developer and builder since its establishment in 1999. They have a diverse portfolio of projects that includes well-received industrial developments like CT FoodNEX and residential projects like The Creek@Bukit.

The preview of CT Pemimpin will be held on February 21, 2025. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a rare freehold industrial space. Call 8100 8017 or visit Chiu Teng Group to arrange a viewing. Secure your investment at CT Pemimpin today!…

An exquisite four-bedroom duplex apartment is now available at the freehold luxury condo, 3 Orchard By-The-Park, through an expression of interest exercise (EOI) with a guide price of $15.8 million.

The unit, marketed by Huttons Asia, boasts an impressive size of over 3,800 sq ft, translating to a price of approximately $4,158 psf. With a ceiling height of 4m and a private lift, this unit offers luxury living at its finest. Three of the four bedrooms feature ensuite bathrooms. The unit underwent extensive renovations three years ago, with over $700,000 invested in the revamp, according to Huttons.

Designed by renowned Italian architect Antonia Citterio, 3 Orchard By-The-Park was completed in 2017. Comprising of three 25-storey towers, it offers a total of 77 units. The residence includes two- to four-bedroom units ranging from 1,066 sq ft to 3,800 sq ft, as well as luxurious penthouses measuring 6,555 sq ft to 6,900 sq ft.

Situated on Orchard Boulevard, the development is in close proximity to the bustling Orchard Road shopping belt. It is also surrounded by esteemed educational institutions such as Anglo-Chinese School (Junior), Anglo-Chinese School (Primary), ISS International School (Elementary & Middle School Campus), and Singapore Chinese Girls’ School (Primary). Furthermore, the Orchard Boulevard MRT Station (Thomson-East Coast Line) is conveniently located nearby.

Recent transactions at 3 Orchard By-The-Park show that the property is in high demand, making this unit an excellent investment opportunity. The EOI will close on March 5 at 4pm.

Don’t miss the chance to own this luxury duplex apartment at 3 Orchard By-The-Park. Check out the latest listings for condominium properties in the area and access helpful tools such as price trend charts, rental yield analyses, and a list of the most expensive condominium projects in District 10.

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The scarcity of land has made condos a highly sought-after option in Singapore. As a small island nation with a fast-growing population, Singapore struggles with the limited availability of land for development. As a result, strict land use policies are in place and the real estate market is highly competitive, resulting in continuously rising property prices. This has made real estate investments, especially in condos, a profitable opportunity with the potential for significant capital gains. To explore more options for Singapore condos, check out Singapore Condo.…

A rare opportunity has arisen to acquire a freehold loft hotel, consisting of 15 rooms, at 739-1 Geylang Road in District 14. The property, with its newly constructed 4-storey rear extension, sits on a 1,273 sq ft plot and boasts an approved gross floor area (GFA) of up to 3,186 sq ft. Its notable ‘Hotel’ zoning and usage approval sets it apart, making it an exclusive choice for new conservation shophouses conversion in Singapore. This designation not only adds to the property’s long-term investment appeal, but also offers exceptional operational flexibility.

The hotel’s prime location, a mere 5-minute walk from Paya Lebar MRT station, provides unrivaled connectivity. As a dual-line station serving both the East-West and Circle lines, guests have seamless access to various parts of Singapore.

Investing in a condo requires careful consideration of financing, as it is a crucial aspect of any investment. For investors in Singapore, there is a variety of mortgage options available, but it is crucial to be familiar with the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) framework. This framework sets a limit on the amount of loan a borrower can acquire, taking into account their income and current debt obligations. As such, understanding the TDSR and seeking guidance from financial advisors or mortgage brokers can assist investors in making well-informed decisions about their financing options and avoiding potential over-leveraging. In addition, exploring Singapore projects can also provide valuable insights and resources for investors in their search for suitable financing options.

The hotel, designed with a sophisticated Japandi theme, is currently undergoing construction and is expected to receive its Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) in Q2 2025. The sale price is comprehensive, covering all construction and renovation costs, making the property move-in ready upon purchase. This makes it a perfect turnkey investment for those looking to venture into or expand their presence in the hospitality sector.

For investors, this property presents an attractive proposition as the current owner, an experienced hotel operator, is open to a sale and leaseback arrangement. This allows for immediate rental income and operational continuity. Senior Marketing Director of ERA Realty Network Pte. Ltd., Eva Lau, predicts that the hotel will appeal to owner-operators as they can take advantage of major renovations for a seamless start to operations.

The demand for hospitality assets in Singapore has been on the rise in recent times, with notable transactions such as LHN Group’s acquisition of Pasir Panjang Inn for $30 million, and an 8-storey hotel at 12 Lorong 12 Geylang listed for sale at $120 million. The market currently has Hotel JJH, a 25-room property at 747 North Bridge Road, on offer for $38 million. These developments highlight the strong demand for well-located, high-quality hospitality assets, which are regarded as one of the most coveted commercial shophouse usage classes in Singapore.

For more information on this rare opportunity, please contact Eva Lau at 92785688, Senior Marketing Director at ERA Realty Network Pte. Ltd. RELATED NEWS Village Hotel Sentosa: A Favorite Among Crowds Freehold Hotel in Chiang Mai Now Available for $24.3 Million Banyan Tree Records $31.7 Million Earnings for FY2023 and Declares 1.2 Cents Dividend.…

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In the luxury world of the ultra-wealthy, the Good Class Bungalows (GCBs) market has seen a remarkable increase in performance this year compared to 2023, reveals Han Huan Mei, director of research at List Sotheby’s International Realty.

According to URA Realis, as of Dec 20, 22 GCB transactions amounting to $612.05 million have been recorded. In addition, 13 more GCB deals, worth over $700 million, were completed this year without caveats lodged, as buyers looked for confidentiality. This brings the estimated total for 2024 to 35 GCB transactions worth approximately $1.32 billion, exceeding the previous high of $1.186 billion in 2022.

In contrast, 2023 only saw 18 GCB transactions totalling $432.5 million, making it the lowest number of deals recorded since URA Realis began tracking such data in January 1995.

“The additional deals in 2024 demonstrate the active nature of the GCB market, surpassing what official transaction data reveals,” says Han. “It also confirms the highly sought-after status of GCBs as a desirable asset among ultra-high-net-worth buyers.”

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Investing in real estate requires careful consideration of various factors, with location being a crucial one. This holds particularly true in Singapore, where the location of a condo can greatly affect its value. Condos located in central areas or in close proximity to important amenities, such as schools, shopping centers, and public transportation hubs, tend to have a higher appreciation in value. Examples of prime locations in Singapore include Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the Central Business District (CBD), where properties have shown consistent growth in value over time. The presence of reputable schools and educational institutions in these areas also makes condos there highly sought-after by families, further boosting their investment potential. Singapore Condo is a great addition to the list of desirable locations for real estate investment.

Dominating the charts are the sale of a GCB at Tanglin Hill for $93.888 million, topping the list with a record-breaking land rate of $6,197 psf. The second-highest GCB transaction was the purchase of a property at Bin Tong Park for $84 million, reportedly bought by Xiang Yangyang, daughter of Chinese nickel billionaire Xiang Guangda. This reflects a land rate of $2,988 psf for the 28,111 sq ft land area.

The highest-priced deal based on caveats lodged was for a GCB on Cluny Hill, which sold for $52 million, boasting a freehold plot of 15,141 sq ft. This transaction sets a land rate of $3,434 psf. Another significant transaction was the purchase of a 21,116 sq ft GCB plot at Astrid Hill for $49 million ($2,321 psf) in July, reportedly bought by Glenn Kuok, nephew of Wilmar International’s chairman and CEO Kuok Khoon Hong.

Mohan Sandrasegeran, head of research and data analytics at Singapore Realtors Inc (SRI), notes that at least 14 transactions this year were valued at $20 million or more, highlighting the demand for ultra-luxury properties in Singapore.

According to him, District 10 remains the pinnacle of the GCB market, with multiple high-value transactions reaffirming its position as the most desirable district for these prestigious properties. Out of the 35 recorded GCB transactions this year, 16 took place in prime District 10, including the highly coveted Tanglin, Bukit Timah, and Holland Road areas.

Sandrasegeran observes that GCB transactions were evenly spread throughout the year, with an increase in buying activity from July. He believes that the fact that GCB deals were closed throughout the year indicates a sustained interest in these trophy properties, despite external economic factors such as inflationary pressures and high interest rates in the first eight months of the year.

Steve Tay, co-founder and executive director of his luxury agency in Singapore, notes that the trajectory of interest rates as signaled by the US Federal Reserve (Fed) was the primary driver of stronger buying sentiment in the GCB market during the second half of the year, more so than the actual rate cuts themselves. The Fed implemented three rate cuts this year, with the most recent being a 25 basis point (bp) reduction on Dec 18, following earlier cuts of 50 bp in September and 25 bp in November.

Tay mentions that buyers who had previously been hesitant began serious discussions from July onwards, resulting in most deals being closed in the last quarter of the year.

The GCB market experienced slower activity last year as buyers held back following the island-wide arrests of suspects in Singapore’s biggest money laundering case, according to Han of List Sotheby’s.

“The money laundering crackdown had a dampening effect on the market, causing some genuine buyers to pull back to avoid media attention,” she says. “Transactions also took longer to close due to heightened scrutiny and stricter checks on buyers’ identities and sources of funds.”

Tay mentions that a new generation of ultra-wealthy Singaporeans has emerged in the GCB market in recent years, including young and successful entrepreneurs who have made their fortunes in technology, finance, commodities, and F&B businesses. He also notes that newly naturalized Singaporeans contribute to the exclusive pool of GCB buyers, with a preference for large plots in prime districts. However, the number of naturalized citizens purchasing GCBs remains low compared to local wealthy individuals.

According to research from List Sotheby’s, the cost of developing a new GCB from the ground up is estimated at about $1,000 psf, and construction can take several years to complete. Hence, most buyers are looking for relatively new bungalows in move-in condition to minimize renovation work, explains Han.

Sandrasegeran believes that the GCB market will continue its positive momentum, fueled by demand from ultra-high-net-worth individuals. He also notes that the preference for privacy among GCB buyers and sellers could lead to more off-market transactions, adding another layer of complexity in tracking market activity.…

On December 4th, VisionPower Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (VSMC) officially began construction on their new US$7.8 billion ($10.5 billion) wafer manufacturing facility in Tampines. The plant is set to open in 2027 and is estimated to produce 55,000 wafers per month by 2029, creating 1,500 job opportunities. The company is a joint venture between Taiwan’s Vanguard International Semiconductor Corporation and the Netherlands’ NXP Semiconductors.

However, VSMC is not the only player expanding their operations in Singapore. In March, Japan’s Toppan Holdings also started building a semiconductor packaging materials factory in Jurong Lake District, with an investment of around $450 million. According to Leonard Tay, head of research at Knight Frank Singapore, many chipmakers and related businesses are setting up new production plants and R&D campuses in Singapore to improve their supply chain resilience. He also notes that Singapore’s stability in the midst of ongoing geopolitical tensions in other parts of the world makes it a global hub for semiconductor production and chips.

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When purchasing a condominium, it is crucial to take into account the ongoing maintenance and management of the property. Condos typically have maintenance fees that cover the expenses of maintaining shared areas and amenities. Although these fees may increase the overall cost of owning a condo, they also guarantee that the property is well-maintained and maintains its value. Engaging a property management company can further assist investors in the day-to-day management of their condos, making it a more hands-off investment. Additionally, staying up-to-date on new condo launches can provide potential buyers with more options and opportunities for investment.

This expansion in the semiconductor industry comes after a downturn in 2023 due to lower demand and higher supply. However, the sector has bounced back, recording a 26% year-on-year increase in revenue for the first three quarters of 2024, reversing the 9% decline in 2023. This has also had a positive impact on Singapore’s manufacturing sector, which saw 11% year-on-year growth in 3Q2024, led by the electronics cluster.

While industrial rents continued to increase in the first three quarters of 2024, the rate of growth has gradually slowed compared to the previous year. This is due to a more cautious sentiment among occupiers amidst an uncertain macroeconomic environment. This can also be seen in the fluctuations in rental transaction volumes throughout the year. According to Catherine He, Colliers’ head of research for Singapore, occupiers are valuing flexibility in their leasing decisions to adapt to changing market dynamics.

Tricia Song, head of research for Singapore and Southeast Asia at CBRE, adds that consolidation in the third-party logistics and e-commerce industries has also contributed to growing occupier resistance. However, different industrial segments have been affected differently, with multiple-user factories and warehouses remaining relatively resilient and registering rental growth throughout the year. On the other hand, the single-user factory and business park segments saw a decline in rents in 3Q2024.

Despite this, the industrial sales market saw more activity with several large transactions taking place in 2Q2024, followed by a further boost in the third quarter. This includes the sale of a portfolio of seven industrial assets from Soilbuild Business Space REIT to a joint venture between Warburg Pincus and Lendlease Group for $1.6 billion. However, Alan Cheong, executive director of research and consultancy at Savills Singapore, believes that these big-ticket deals are likely a one-off and the market may see one or two large transactions in 2025, but significantly below $1 billion.

Looking ahead, JTC estimates 0.2 million sqm of new industrial space to be completed in 4Q2024 and a further 1.6 million sqm in 2025, almost double the average annual new supply in the past three years. This, coupled with weaker demand, may result in a supply-demand imbalance and slower rental and price growth in the near future. However, demand for multiple-user factory space, centrally located food factories, and logistics space is expected to remain healthy, with the electronics and advanced manufacturing sectors also attracting investments. On the other hand, business park rents may continue to face pressure as companies downsize in response to flexible working arrangements.…

Singapore’s built environment is set for major change as we head into 2025. The facilities management (FM) sector will need to adapt to new regulatory standards, rising costs and advancing technology. Three main factors will shape the future of FM and boost its sustainability: mandatory energy improvement programs, the impact of increasing temperatures on energy expenses, and a growing trend towards adaptive reuse in construction.

Climate disclosures and tighter regulations will act as a catalyst for energy efficiency. The Mandatory Energy Improvement regime, which will be implemented in the third quarter of 2025, will require existing energy-intensive buildings to undergo energy audits and implement energy-efficient measures. This mandate will apply to commercial, healthcare, institutional, civic, community, and educational buildings with a gross floor area exceeding 5,000 square meters. These buildings are expected to reduce their energy usage intensity by 10% from pre-energy audit levels, a reasonable target that can be achieved through the right strategies.

Asset owners are encouraged to take a long-term view when investing in energy-efficient systems. The energy audits will provide valuable information on energy consumption patterns, identify areas for improvement, and guide asset owners in developing a strategy to reduce operating costs and contribute to a more sustainable built environment. Building owners can also take advantage of grants to help cover the costs of energy efficiency upgrades.

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Investing in a Singapore Condo has become increasingly popular, with many investors looking towards this type of property. However, before making any investment decisions, it is important to consider the government’s property cooling measures in Singapore. The Singaporean government has implemented various measures over the years to prevent speculative buying and maintain a stable real estate market.

One of these measures is the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which imposes higher taxes on foreign buyers and those purchasing multiple properties. While this may affect the short-term profitability of condo investments, it also contributes to the long-term stability of the market. By limiting speculation, these measures create a safer investment environment for individuals looking to invest in a Singapore Condo.

Temasek Polytechnic, Singapore’s first smart campus, embarked on a digital transformation in 2021, providing valuable insights into the future of smart and sustainable FM. The campus uses a suite of solutions to digitise operations, such as facility booking, automated repair and maintenance work orders, and crowd management and temperature control measures. This data is monitored and analyzed in a central control center, allowing campus operations teams to make informed decisions to maximize the lifespan of assets, reduce operational costs, and decrease carbon emissions.

Another push for sustainability will come from climate disclosure obligations for all listed and large non-listed companies with revenues of at least $1 billion and total assets of at least $500 million by 2027.

With temperatures predicted to rise in 2025, building owners will need to invest in predictive technology to meet the growing demand for cooling. The use of air conditioning and mechanical ventilation (ACMV) systems is already a major contributor to operational costs, accounting for around 60% of total energy expenses in many buildings. Optimizing these systems is crucial in mitigating rising energy costs, and building owners can achieve this by implementing energy-efficient solutions such as energy recovery systems or thermal energy storage. Additionally, optimizing chiller plant operations to match changing weather conditions can reduce energy waste and costs.

At a city and precinct level, extreme weather events, such as flooding and urban heat, pose a threat to critical infrastructure and can disrupt normal operations. Building owners and city planners can mitigate these risks by leveraging web-based geospatial technology to identify flood-prone areas and heat-exposed spaces. This will enable them to develop a comprehensive operational plan to predict and mitigate the risk of equipment failure and downtime.

The increasing cost of construction is also driving a shift towards adaptive reuse, with a significant increase in redevelopment projects in Singapore over the past five years. To save on costs, Surbana Jurong (SJ) estimates that mechanical and electrical costs have increased by approximately 30% compared to pre-pandemic levels. This trend is pushing the adoption of smart design and engineering practices, including the use of collaborative common data environments to benchmark construction and operational costs.

Adaptive reuse, where existing buildings are transformed for a new purpose, is gaining popularity as a response to rising costs. Digital platforms, such as Podium, allow real estate developers and contractors to access real-time insights into key performance indicators (KPIs) such as time, cost, quality, and safety. By consolidating data from multiple sources, stakeholders can access valuable information throughout the building cycle. This includes data on structural frames, superstructures, and foundations, which can inform whether a building should be redeveloped or reused. By retaining existing structural elements, developers can save on materials, time, and labor.

After construction, Podium can be integrated with other operational platforms to track building performance metrics such as energy usage, waste management, water consumption, indoor air quality, and occupancy trends. This will help drive operational carbon reduction goals. Additionally, by optimizing the efficiency of building systems, such as chiller plants, smart buildings can mitigate the impact of rising costs and extend the lifespan of capital-intensive equipment.

Sensors can be installed to monitor and track the performance of each component in a piece of equipment, allowing for predictive maintenance to reduce downtime and improve overall efficiency. Thermal imaging can also be used to detect abnormal temperatures or heat buildup in the system. With access to detailed data, building owners can make informed decisions about parts that need to be replaced within a specific period, such as retrofitting or replacing entire systems.

In conclusion, as we approach 2025, the FM sector in Singapore will need to adapt to evolving regulations, rising costs, and technological advancements. By embracing digitalization, data analytics, and sustainable practices, the sector can drive sustainability, reduce costs, and ensure long-term operational success.…

Savills Research has released its global outlook report for 2025, and it reveals that the Asia Pacific (Apac) real estate market continues to surpass its global counterparts. According to the report, Apac’s real GDP growth is outstripping that of the US and Europe, suggesting a stable and confident economic outlook. This will likely lead to increased investment and activity in the region.

In the first three quarters of 2024, Apac saw a 4% year-on-year growth in investment volumes, reaching US$108.7 billion. The top three markets that saw significant year-on-year growth were Singapore (74%), South Korea (71%), and Australia (63%). This trend is expected to continue, with Savills forecasting global real estate investment turnover to rise by 27% to US$952 billion in 2025.

The report also notes that global investments are expected to reach pre-pandemic levels by 2026, thanks to stabilized interest rates and improved investor confidence. In line with this, Singapore’s real estate market is set to follow suit and reflect this global trend, says Alan Cheong, Executive Director of Research & Consultancy at Savills Singapore.

Apac is expected to see a full recovery in real estate investments next year, driven by sectors such as tourism, living, and industrial development, particularly in logistics and data centers. Simon Smith, Savills regional head of research & consultancy for Apac, notes that the region’s stable economic conditions and long-term structural trends should support values in growth markets such as India and Southeast Asia. However, the winners and losers will be determined by how global themes play out in the region and which countries are best positioned to take advantage of them.

In the Apac region, the office sector remains the most attractive, accounting for 37% of total real estate investment in the first three quarters of 2024 – significantly higher than the global average of 23%. Singapore, China, South Korea, and Japan are the top cities for office utilization, with occupancy rates exceeding 90%. The region also has a strong focus on green-certified office spaces, with tenants placing importance on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters.

Singapore, being a hub and gateway to the region, is a popular choice for new overseas brands. Prime retail developments are seeing healthy demand, which is keeping rental levels stable. In the industrial sector, despite cost pressures, there is a strong demand for logistics, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and data centers, which will help maintain steady rental rates and capital values in the long term.

Cheong also notes that Singapore is seeing an increase in data centers being built, thanks to greater adoption of artificial intelligence and more data center service providers using the city-state as a launchpad for expansion.

When it comes to investing in a condominium, financing becomes a crucial consideration. In Singapore, there are various mortgage options available; however, it is crucial to take note of the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) framework. This framework sets a limit on the amount of loan a borrower can take based on their income and current debt obligations. To make wise decisions about financing, it is important to have a good understanding of the TDSR and seek guidance from financial advisors or mortgage brokers. This will help investors avoid over-leveraging and make informed choices. Additionally, keeping an eye on new condo launches can also provide potential opportunities for favorable financing options.

As global investment and activity continue to grow, the real estate industry needs to adapt to changing legislative landscapes and geopolitical dynamics, while also focusing on sustainable and socially responsible development to meet the needs of a evolving world, says Savills’ head of world research, Paul Tostevin.

In conclusion, UBS’s report predicts that Apac will become the top investment destination for family offices globally, further cementing the region’s position as an attractive and stable market for real estate investment.…