A little goes a long way: BitOfProperty brings crowdfunding to Asia real estate investment

BitofProperty's vision is to make global real estate investment simple and the company is developing a decentralised, crowdfunding platform to accomplish this

(Editor’s note: LIFULL recently purchased the Mitula Group, Dot Property’s parent company. LIFULL also served as the lead investor in the latest round of seed funding for BitOfProperty.)

International real estate investment can be expensive and legally challenging for those new to the process. Finding information about property investment in foreign countries can also be problematic. These factors were not lost on the founders of BitOfProperty.

Karl Vään, Co-Founder and CEO of BitOfProperty, notes the company wanted to help bring international real estate investments to the masses. In order to do this they would need to find a way for investors to start with small amounts, provide them with a transparent ownership structure and carry out the due diligence process.

The company’s ultimate vision is to make global real estate investment simple and the company is developing a decentralised platform to accomplish this. The crowdfunding platform allows many people can own one property. Prices start at EUR 50 and investors have the ability to invest in various deals on the platform, Vään details.

“The platform is built in a way that brings more transparency and safety to all investors regardless of if they are local or come from overseas,” Vään explains. “All transactions are recorded on a public database (blockchain) making ownership movements are seamless and immutable. Additionally, investors can read their investment agreements on smart contracts.

Once the property is acquired, investors start to receive monthly rental income to their wallet on the BitOfProperty platform. They can then use these funds to invest in more properties or withdraw the cash to their own personal bank account. BitOfProperty or one of its partner companies manages the properties.

“On the BitOfProperty platform, investors can receive between 5.6 to 7 percent net rental return per annum. These returns are on the high side, but still remain in the range of local averages. Investors have also the potential to earn capital gain from any property price increases. After three years, the property is sold and the principal, along with any capital gains, are returned to the investors,” Vään says.

BitOfProperty has already built a legal structure for the company to acquire properties in Estonia and Japan. The company’s platform is up and running in Estonia and is moving forward with its plans in Japan.

“When compared to Europe, then rental returns in Estonia are relatively high and attractive for passive investors,” Vään reports. “You can get similar rental returns in the Japanese property market, which in our view is competitive, and should be interesting for investors since it is a passive real estate backed investment.”

The innovation caught the eye of Japanese real estate company LIFULL who was the lead investor for BitOfProperty’s latest round of seed funding. According to Vään, LIFULL was interested in small real estate investments utilising blockchain technology as
it looks to build a platform for global real estate transactions
.

BitOfProperty targets Bangkok and Southeast Asia

Karl Vään, Co-Founder and CEO of BitOfProperty

After a successful rollout in Estonia and one planned for Japan in the near future, BitOfProperty is now exploring new destinations. Bangkok sits on the top of the company’s wish list for a number of reasons.

“Thailand is an exciting and dynamic market. There are many good and profitable projects to be found in the country,” Vään says. “Since the vision of BitOfProperty is to make global real estate investing simple, Bangkok adds to the diversity of places that investors can invest in.”

Of course, the company also understands that it will face challenges as it moves into Bangkok and Southeast Asia as a whole. Perhaps the most daunting issue is the regulatory framework, which varies across the region. This means BitOfProperty would need to study each country before it could open a platform. And that is only one issue it needs to take into consideration.

“(Dealing with) Different currencies can become a challenge, because raising money and eventually converting it to the currency which is used to make the acquisition can be different due to exchange rate. This is something that needs to be mitigated,” Vään points out.

He continues, “Lastly, language can be a problem as well, even if our investors are international. If the property comes from, for example, Bangkok, then people from Thailand are also potential investors. This, however, would mean that the platform and materials should be in the Thai language as well. That will increase the cost for the company and require us to build a team in Thailand.”

BitOfProperty believes it has found a solution to the aforementioned problems by building an International Property Exchange (IPEX). The IPEX would work like a stock exchange for real estate crowdfunding/investment companies from around the world.

“Projects listed by members of the IPEX system are mirrored on each other’s platforms in order to raise funds together simultaneously, but each company is doing it in their local country and jurisdiction,” Vään notes. “This way companies can leverage investors from other platforms and have easier access to foreign capital.”

This ensures each platform can offer overseas real estate without needing a license in every country while companies can build trust in the new markets they are entering. The domestic exchanges benefit in these partnerships since they are able to offer international real estate to their clients that would only found on other platforms. The benefits extend to investors as well.

“At the same time, investors can enjoy the exposure of foreign investments and diversify their funds accordingly. Also, they are open to more liquidity when it comes to buying and selling their shares. Investors don’t rely solely on the platform where they made an investment, but can sell their share to any investors whose service provider is connected to IPEX system,” Vään states.

Why Bangkok and Southeast Asia?

BitOfProperty is targeting Bangkok after a successful launch in Estonia and a soon to be completed launch in Japan

One of the Bangkok property market’s main attractions is its affordability. Real estate prices in the Thai capital are significantly less than in more developed markets, but Vään sees this as an opportunity, not an issue.

“Since the prices in Bangkok and other cities in Southeast Asia are cheap, then real estate crowdfunding makes a lot of sense. This is a good time for investors to go in and get some exposure in emerging markets’ real estate,” Vään says. “Of course, each country needs to be studied separately and it doesn’t mean that all of them will be doing well in the coming years. However, Thailand is definitely worth looking at.”

Although BitOfProperty may seem to be for inexperienced investors, looks can be deceiving. BitOfProperty seeks to move the needle for experienced property investors who are looking to diversify their funds with ease as well. At the end of the day, they want to bring a new wave of real estate investment for all to Southeast Asia.

“BitOfProperty is the best avenue for investors who do not want to take too much risk, especially those who want to learn about the markets and understand them before investing large sums. Investors can participate with little capital and learn about the market while investing. We believe that this is the best way to go about your first investments in an unknown territory,” Vään concludes.

For more information on BitOfProperty,
click here


Live your best life by investing in Phuket’s ultimate beachfront development

The developers behind Sunshine Beach took a different approach to creating a project in Phuket. Instead of focusing on a specific feature or concept, T.H. Group, a joint venture between Hong Kong Safe Gold Group, Golden Invest Group and AUTA Group from Australia, wanted to curate a lifestyle. A place where dreams of luxury island living could be a reality.

In order to accomplish this lofty goal, the team behind Sunshine Beach needed the perfect combination of location, amenities and design along with options for both investors and those wanting a long-term home.

It was no easy feat, but T.H. Group was able to find a way to ensure Sunshine Beach offered the best lifestyle. And now the developer has the credentials to back up its claims. Sunshine Beach won Best Lifestyle Condotel/Residences at the
Dot Property Southeast Asia Awards 2020
. You probably want to know more about this award-winning lifestyle, so let’s find out how you can live your best life in Phuket.

Read More:

What can you expect from Phuket Rental returns?

A postcard worthy location

Location is the most important thing when it comes to real estate and Sunshine Beach boasts one of the best spots in all of Phuket. Situated along Bang Tao Beach, the beautiful blue waters of the Andaman Sea are literally at your doorstep. But there is a lot of cool stuff in this part of Phuket you should take note of.

For starters, the beautiful Layan Beach and Dream Beach Club are a short walk away. Should you be in the mood for a little shopping, both Boat Avenue and Porto De Phuket can be reached in less than ten minutes by car. Meanwhile, Laguna Phuket, and its endless array of entertainment activities are a stone’s throw away. No matter what you want to do in life, it is easily accessible from Sunshine Beach.

The place to be

Sunshine Beach features a 2,500 square meter swimming pool that spans the entire development

One of the great things about Sunshine Beach is the fact it has been equipped with a everything could possibly need to enjoy life. Most impressive of all is the staggering 2,500 square meter swimming pool which runs past every building in the development. Simply put, you’ll never have to worry about the pool being crowded.

Another notable feature of Sunshine Beach is the Aquarium Restaurant which will offer one of the most unique dining experiences in Phuket. A great deal of care has gone into the design of the other amenities at Sunshine Beach to make sure they meet the exacting needs of even the most discerning visitors. Everything from the on-site spa to the fitness center will be of the highest quality.

A residence for everyone

Sunshine Beach has units designed for both investors and long-term residents

Regardless of if you are an investor seeking outstanding yields and a holiday home to use each year or are searching for your own personal paradise in Phuket, Sunshine Beach has a residence for you. For those after the former, the hotel part of the development has been setup with your needs in mind.

The hotel residences have been thoughtfully designed to meet the requirements of modern travelers. What’s more, they are backed by investment programs tailored to different goals. There are multiple programs to choose from so you can find one that works best for you.

On the other hand, the residential component of Sunshine Beach focuses on those who want to spend months or even the entire year in Phuket. The
luxurious homes
 come equipped with everything daily life calls for, including modern kitchens and spacious living areas.

No matter your lifestyle, Sunshine Beach has a solution for you, and it is the only development in Phuket with that type of flexibility.

Live your best life at Sunshine Beach

Sunshine Beach won Best Lifestyle Condotel/Residences at the Dot Property Southeast Asia Awards 2020 because it is a place where unit owners can truly live the life they want. There are the world class amenities and beautiful designs that perfectly capture the upscale lifestyle. And of course, the magnificent location along the beach is an ideal backdrop.

However, it is the flexible ownership options that ensures no other development compares to Sunshine Beach. Owning a residence here isn’t simply a dream come true. It is YOUR dream come true. And it doesn’t get any better than living your best life on the beach in Phuket.

Find your dream residence in Phuket here


Live on the Olympic Boulevard

Ecove, the developer that has transformed Sydney Olympic Park into a popular residential suburb, is about to launch the first apartment tower on Olympic Boulevard, arguably the most famous thoroughfare in Australia.

It was here 16 years ago where millions gathered in joyous celebration as the world watched Sydney dazzle.

Boomerang (pictured) will be built on the corner of Sarah Durack Drive, within 400 metres of the Olympic Stadium and overlooking the Aquatic Centre and the new training ground and facilities for the GWS Giants AFL club.

Designed by Bates Smart, the tower’s boomerang shape is believed to be a first for a residential building in New South Wales. Whilst difficult and expensive to construct, the shape provides several advantages.

Firstly, the curved corners will minimise downdraft and wind impact to the public domain below. Secondly, Boomerang will provide 100 percent solar access to all its 229 apartments. It means that each apartment will achieve a minimum of three hours of natural light a day.

Views from the 38-storey tower will be spectacular; across Bicentennial Park to the Sydney CBD and Sydney Harbour, and across Homebush Bay to the Parramatta River. Because of its shape and full-height glazing the lobbies on each floor will also bask in the expansive vistas.

The tower rises above a six-level, six-star commercial centre which will have around 800 sqm of ground floor retail. A communal indoor and outdoor space on level nine embracing gardens, open lawns and seating nooks will help promote social interaction as well as private contemplation.

“Boomerang is the next generation of luxury apartment living at Sydney Olympic Park, and is the result of seven years of resident feedback and design experience,” said Sue Ballesty, Marketing Manager of Ecove.

“The apartments will be the highest-quality we’ve ever created here, largely because we undertake meticulous consultation with residents.”

David Chittenden of Colliers Residential describes the interiors at Boomerang as ‘pared down luxury’, with beautiful timbers, natural stone and textural marble.

“Mindful of the iconic surroundings, the muted interiors let the views make their statement while allowing residents to infuse their own personality on the space,” Chittenden said.

Prices at Boomerang will start from AUD$ 718,000 for a one-bedroom apartment measuring from 58 sqm, and rise to more than AUD$ 2.7 million for a four-bedroom unit with up to 223 sqm of space. All one- and two-bedroom apartments get one secure car spots, and the three- and four-bedroom apartments receive two car spaces.

“Rather than the post-Olympics ‘hangover’ some doomsayers predicted, Sydney Olympic Park now has a residential ‘heart’ with a strong communal spirit,” said Chittenden.

“Purchasers have come from all parts of Sydney and have been a broad mix of investors, owner-occupiers, workers from the many local businesses, first home buyers, small family groups and downsizers.

“The influx of residents has made Sydney Olympic Park into a fully functioning suburb. There is a real sense of community here, and residents appreciate the benefits of living in the sporting and entertainment heartland of Sydney.”

The Boomerang showroom is on the ground level of Ecove’s One Australia Avenue building at Sydney Olympic Park. It will open daily from May 7 from 11am until 3pm.

www.boomerangtower.com.au


Live…Play…Invest in Bukit Bintang

Located within Kuala Lumpur’s world famous Golden Triangle, Bukit Bintang has become one of the coolest destinations in all of Southeast Asia. Everything from Malaysia International Fashion Week to the Malaysian F1 Grand Prix Pit Stop takes place here adding to Bukit Bintang’s allure as a must-stay location. And while there are plenty of five-star hotels, residencies can be harder to come by despite growing demand. Of course, this also means its an ideal place to live or invest in.

Live…

There are a few luxurious projects springing up in Bukit Bintang, but Dorsett Residences Bukit Bintang is by far and away the most promising. Operated by the renowned Dorsett hospitality brand, this luxury project promises residents distinctive living where the outstanding amenities are connected. Those amenities include fully furnished units, fitness facilities and valet parking.

…Play…

With no shortage of retail centres, Bukit Bintang is one of Asia’s premier shopping destinations. Tourists and locals frequent this area looking for everything from designer goods to boutique offerings. Those exhausted from shopping can head to Bintang Walk where there are countless trendy eateries and cafes serving up local favourites and international offerings.

…Invest

There are a number of factors that make Kuala Lumpur’s prime residential real estate in neighbourhoods such as Bukit Bintang attractive. For starters, per square metre property prices for luxury units in central locations is far cheaper than in Singapore and surprisingly Bangkok. While there are stamp duties and other cooling measures in place, these are not necessarily a deterrent if you find the right property in the right location.

“In terms of pricing, Kuala Lumpur is very attractive. And there is no restriction on the property tenure, so foreigners can buy a freehold property subject to price thresholds that vary for different states,” Knight Frank Malaysia executive director of research and consultancy, Judy Ong, explained.

Final Thoughts on Bukit Bintang

There really is a lot to love about Bukit Bintang. It is considered to be the heartbeat of Kuala Lumpur and is the one area expats and millennials strive to live. Developments such as Dorsett Residences Bukit Bintang are exciting since they offer the full-service, branded residential space many buyers now crave along with a wide range of modern amenities. Additionally, costs for prime residential real estate are relatively inexpensive at the moment, even in popular locations like Bukit Bintang. Whether you want a place to call home in Kuala Lumpur or simply want a smart investment, Bukit Bintang is worth considering.


Lombok’s future remains bright as more people look to enjoy its unrivaled island lifestyle

Anyone who has ever visited Lombok speaks glowingly of the island’s pristine beaches, laidback lifestyle and unspoiled beauty. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was the property investment and holiday destination for those in the know. And in the world of the “New Normal”, the appeal of Lombok will only grow.

“Lombok was made for social distancing. Lombok is still a place where you can find a long white sand beach all to yourself, and you certainly will not be entering a crowded office here. And there is no need to live within the confines of a small apartment, think a spacious villa for you and your family,” Tom Merrett, Founder of Reef Property Lombok, explains.

Merrett notes that 2020 was altogether a positive year for the Lombok property market, but one trend in particular sticks out. The pandemic has sped up acceptance of flexible and remote working and this has had an immediate impact on the local real estate market.

“We have seen increased demand from buyers looking for land and villas that are suitable for second homes. Suddenly, Lombok is not seen as just a place for a ‘holiday home’ but a location for a true second home for overseas purchasers to use for leisure and work,” Merrett states.

The relaxed lifestyle is what first drew Merrett to Indonesia in the first place. The real estate industry veteran had a successful career in Australia with Colliers International and Savills before eventually settling in
Lombok
 and starting his agency, Reef Property Lombok.

“I had been a regular visitor to Lombok for 15 years and decided to set up Reef Property Lombok in 2016 to fill a gap in the market for professional real estate advice,” Lombok says. “My background is in Commercial Property so I felt I could bring a more wholistic approach to providing advice to both pure investors as well as more lifestyle-orientated purchasers.”

A look at Lombok

The Reef Property Lombok team consists of Tom Merrett (right) and Lucy Elliott (left)

Bali has long been the premier property and holiday destination in
Indonesia
 having built a global reputation. However, the government has worked to promote Lombok over the past decade while carrying out work on key infrastructure projects.

Of course, promoting Lombok wasn’t all that difficult. The seemingly an endless supply of white sand beaches featuring sparkling, bluish green waters made it anyone who saw photos of the island want to visit. Perhaps the only thing stopping more people from going there prior to 2011 was the journey.

However, the opening of Lombok International Airport almost a decade ago proved to be the shot in the arm the island needed. These days there are now direct connections to Singapore, Perthand Kuala Lumpur from Lombok. There are also numerous flights between Bali and Lombok. This journey takes roughly 30 minutes and numerous carriers serve the route while those coming from further afield will need to transit through
Bali
.

Getting there now is easier said than done and travel restrictions remain the biggest challenge for Lombok this year. While expats from Europe have returned, other key markets for the island remain closed.

“Limited travel from Hong Kong and Singapore may have some impact on the property market here. While we have seen plenty of buyers entering Indonesia in recent months largely from Europe, expat buyers from Asia are traditionally strong markets for Lombok,” Merrett reports. “Although once those buyers from do start to come back, I think we will see an immediate rise in pricing due to the pent-up demand.”

A bright future

The amazing view from Villa Strata, one of Lombok’s most striking residences

Lombok may not have been immune from the COVID-19 pandemic but the market has already recovered. This may be surprising on the surface. However, it actually makes a lot of sense when you think about it.

“I must admit I thought the travel restrictions would slow transactions, and they did briefly, but as we come to the end of the year it clearly has been a record year of sales for us at Reef Property. From July we saw the market roar back into life especially with buyers from Europe traveling more freely,” Merrett says.

He continues, “People seem to be coming to the realization that if you do not need to spend all your time in a big city. Why not spend your time somewhere that is not only far more affordable, but also offers an upgrade in your lifestyle?”

Investing in Lombok now, regardless of your reason, also presents a unique opportunity as the island transforms into one of Southeast Asia’s leading property and holiday destinations. Seeing the Lombok market mature is one of the things Merrett is most excited about.

Villa Strata is close to the famous Tanjung Aan Beach

“Lombok is evolving from a place that was dominated by land speculation to a location where people are developing high end villas and boutique rental accommodation. Seeing high quality construction projects underway has been the biggest change recently and I am excited to see the results of some of these impressive designs,” Merrett points out. “These higher-end projects are also leading to the opening of new restaurants, beach clubs and retail in and around the Kuta area in South Lombok. The dining scene has changed dramatically in the last couple of years and we are excited about what 2021 will bring.”

Another exciting change are the improvements the government is making as it relates to foreign investment. For overseas buyers, investing in Indonesian property has never been easier.

“The simplifying of foreign company (PT PMA) set up laws and legal processes makes it much easier and quicker for foreign buyers to put in place the necessary legal frameworks to invest in Indonesian property,” Merrett states. “Further streamlining of these systems, which are expected, will have a significant effect on increasing foreign investment into Lombok and Indonesia in general.”

A true gem

Beachfront Dune Villas at Amber come with direct access to the beach

For those who choose to buy real estate in Lombok, they are getting much more than a property. This your chance to live in an island paradise and enjoy a lifestyle you probably dream about. It’s something Merrett experiences on a daily basis and recommends to just about everyone.

“Lombok for me is the perfect balance of that dream remote island lifestyle while still being totally accessible. I can go for a jog 20 minutes from my house and feel I am in the middle of nowhere and return to town for dinner with friends in a top-quality restaurant,” Merrett details. “I would recommend Lombok to all active and fun-loving people. Lombok is particularly popular with young couples and families who love the outdoors; kids absolutely love it here.”

There is more to buying a Lombok property than the lifestyle. From a financial perspective, it also makes a lot of sense. An undersupplied market seeing growing demand means investors will be well positioned to see strong returns and capital appreciation.

“In terms of the property market I would recommend it to people seeking a relaxed lifestyle, good value and a high yielding investment,” Merrett notes. “Lombok has an undersupply of villas, so if you have accommodation here you are set to benefit from the strong rental income for the foreseeable future and likely some strong capital gain.”

For more information on Reef Property Lombok, visit
:
reefpropertylombok.com


London 2-bed rents to top £2K

Average monthly rents for London two-bedroom homes will top £2,000 by the end of September according to London-based residential real estate agency Portico.

According to its
London Rental Market Report Q1 2016
, the average rent for a two-bedroom home in London now stands at £1,867 per calendar month (pcm), a two percent increase from the beginning of the year.

Given that tenancies which start in September are typically 11 percent higher than tenancies that start in December, Portico has predicted that two-bed rents will reach £2,008 pcm by September this year. And with two people sharing the cost of a two-bedroom home – i.e. £1,004 pcm – this shared rent figure will consume 46 percent of the average London monthly net salary.

The
Portico London Rental Market Report Q1 2016
 highlighted that Ealing in West London has seen the largest increase in rent – at 6.9 percent – with rents for a two-bed home now at £1,825 pcm. This was followed by Richmond-upon-Thames with a 6 percent increase (average two-bed rent now at £1,934 pcm) and Lambeth, with a 5.8 percent increase (average two-bed rent now at £2,051 pcm).

However average rents have reduced for two-bed homes across seven London boroughs, including two boroughs in Prime Central London. Rents in both Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea have reduced by 5.7 percent and 1.1 percent, respectively.

Bromley has experienced the greatest decline in monthly rents for all properties, with a reduction of 6.3 percent during Q1 followed by Hillingdon at 4.4 percent and Kingston-upon-Thames at 4.1 percent.

Robert Nichols, Managing Director, Portico, commenting on this latest report, said: “The majority of London boroughs are seeing rent increases anywhere from one to almost seven percent. For landlords who may be feeling under particular pressure given government announcements, this may provide some welcome news.

“But our latest report also shows some significant rent drops. Bromley is down over six percent with Kingston and Hillingdon also experiencing four percent reductions. All in all, these declines won’t prevent the average two-bed rent tipping over the £2,000 mark later this year.”

The
Portico London Rental Market Report Q1 2016
 is published every quarter and focuses on the two-bedroom market as a major indicator of London rental market health.


London apartments rival hotels

The number of London apartment buildings with lifestyle facilities that rival four- and five-star hotels has risen dramatically over the last 10 years.

From their original heartland in Knightsbridge, these luxury buildings have expanded their presence across Central London. In the eight inner-most districts there are now 38 buildings providing some 4,000 hotel-style apartments.

Developers seeking record-breaking prices are delivering exceptional levels of luxury and service. This luxury apartment market has the potential to provide serious competition for the serviced flat and hotel sectors. These are just some of the findings of a new report from leading estate agent Kay & Co.

The ‘New Apartment Buildings Rival Luxury Hotels’ report was commissioned by Kay & Co with data analysis undertaken by Dataloft, the market intelligence group. It used Land Registry, Kay & Co data and local market intelligence to analyse more than 4,000 prestige apartments built in Prime Central London over the last decade.

In order to quantify this market the report devised a hotel-style star-rating system for the new PCL developments. Ten lifestyle criteria were used to award points to developments based upon the presence of certain features and amenities. The star-rating criteria had a maximum of 50 points.

A one-star development scored under five points and provided a concierge and good local amenities. A two-star scored between five and 14 points and benefited from a concierge, parking and local amenities. A three-star scored between 15 and 24 points with concierge, outside space and local amenities. A four-star scored between 25 and 34 points providing concierge, outside space, local amenities, gym/spa and/or business suite. A five-star scored between 35-50 points providing concierge, outside space, gym/spa, cinema, wine cellar and swimming pool. The report mapped 38 developments: 10 were allocated five stars; nine were given four stars; 10 had three stars; seven achieved two stars and two got just one star.

The four- and five-star developments were historically clustered in Knightsbridge, then expanded into Mayfair and Belgravia. However in recent years developers have delivered ultra-prime products in Fitzrovia, Westminster, Bayswater, Marylebone and the Hyde Park Estate. The number of four- and five-star rated developments has risen dramatically.

There are now 1,083 5-star rated apartments in London with a combined value of more than £2.4 billion. The proportion of apartments achieving these top grades has risen steeply in the last 18 months from 60 percent to 74 percent of all new PCL developments. More five-star apartments are due to be completed in 2015 and 2016 than in the 10 previous years combined.

The report highligheds that the focus of luxury pipeline development is along the Northern and Western boundaries of London’s West End. Some 81 percent of allfive5-star apartments scheduled for completion in 2015 and 2016 are in Fitrovia or Marylebone, and some of the most recent luxury projects unveiled or in the pipeline are in the Hyde Park Estate and Bayswater.

An analysis of London’s top-10 five-star developments also underlined the expansion of the hotel-style apartment concept outside of its historic Knightsbridge heartland. Whilst, perhaps unsurprisingly, the report’s top two developments with the highest amenity scores are One Hyde Park and The Knightsbridge, other projects in the top-10 include The Chilterns and Chiltern Place, both in Marylebone; Riverwalk in Westminster; and Rathbone Square and Fitzroy Place, both in Fitzrovia.

The report also revealed there has been a significant lack of new luxury apartment development in Chelsea and Kensington. Of the 38 developments reviewed in the report, only two are in Chelsea proper, with two – Chelsea Barracks and Grosvenor Waterside – being on the border with Pimlico. There is also an emerging “North-South divide” across central London in terms of types of apartment offering. To the South, there is a swathe of one-, two- and three-star apartment buildings running parallel to the river from Chelsea to Westminster. To the North there is an arc of four- and five–star buildings running from Knightsbridge, via Bayswater and the Hyde Park Estate, to Marylebone and Fitzrovia.

The presence of Royal Parks near to five-star rated apartment buildings is notable. Of the ten developments rated five-star in the report, eight are in the vicinity of either The Regent’s Park or Hyde Park. The south of Hyde Park is home to a cluster of five star developments such as The Knightsbridge, Lancelot Place and One Hyde Park whilst the popularity of Fitzrovia, the Hyde Park Estate and Marylebone may, in part, be attributed to their easy access to parkland.

The report highlighted the rise in global wealth has resulted in a demand for lateral apartments with hotel style facilities by international investors from the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Many wealthy overseas buyers are used to hotel style apartments in their domestic countries and want to acquire the same product in London. The success of projects such as The Knightsbridge and One Hyde Park has encouraged developers to stretch the boundaries of specification, amenities and pricing to offer not just a home but a lifestyle.

As a result, prices paid for new build apartments in central London has increased at an astonishing rate. The average price of a hotel-style apartment in PCL has risen 341 percent from £511,000 in 2009 to £2.25 million in 2014-15. New apartments with hotel type amenities now sell at a 62 percent price premium compared to second-hand conventional apartments.

Three key conclusions can be drawn from the report. Firstly, this new generation of luxury apartments has the potential to cut across the serviced apartment and traditional hotel sectors. Over the last few years global economic turbulence has driven some ultra-high-net-worth investors to mortgage their luxury four- and five-star rated apartments, release cash from them, and place them on the rental market in order to generate income. This has the potential to compete with the existing serviced apartment and luxury hotel markets.

Secondly, these new apartments are creating a new style of city living, where residents have access to concierge facilities, gyms, swimming pools, spas, retail outlets, in-room dining and valet parking. Thirdly, success is driving expansion of these projects into new areas to the North of London’s West End creating a new prime London region. Over the next five years we can expect to see more three-, four- and five-star rated projects in Euston, Kings Cross and Paddington.

Martin Bikhit, Managing Director of Kay & Co, said: “Go back a decade and there were around half a dozen luxury apartment buildings with hotel style amenities most associated with Knightsbridge. Now global demand, rising prices and excellent developer standards have resulted in a huge expansion of this hotel style apartment offering.

“There are now some 4,000 of these apartments, 1,083 five-star rated, located across eight Central London districts. A key trend has been an emergence of these projects to the North of the West End in locations including Marylebone, the Hyde Park Estate, Bayswater and Fitzrovia. This is in the heart of our operating area.

“Over the next five years we can expect to see more three-, four- and five-star rated projects in locations including Euston, Kings Cross and Paddington. A new prime London region is emerging.”

www.kayandco.com


London Heights International names Dot Property as principle marketing partner in Thailand

Dot Property CEO Matthew Campbell (far left) with the management teams from London Heights International and Trivelles International.

Respected UK-based property consultancy London Heights International has named Dot Property, a LIFULL CONNECT company, as its principle marketing partner in Thailand. The move is another milestone for London Heights International in the Kingdom after it recently opened a permanent Bangkok office.

The agreement will see Dot Property organise a series of events throughout Thailand in 2019 including the first UK property seminars in Phuket and Pattaya designed exclusively for agents. This is in addition to several other marketing opportunities. As Southeast Asia’s leading real estate marketplace, Dot Property is uniquely positioned to assist London Heights International in reaching a bespoke audience of both investors and real estate agents.

“Apart from the exceptional service that we receive, Dot Property is already a very successful international service provider who furnished us with the customised platform we essentially required in order to meet our targeted audience here in Bangkok,” Khan, London Heights International Global Head, Sales & Marketing, explained. “Apart from their own growing strength in Southeast Asia, they have recently joined an expanded global network that has collectively become the largest online real estate aggregator in the world, LIFULL CONNECT.”

The next London Heights International event being organised by Dot Property is a UK property seminar exclusively for agents in May in Bangkok. Real estate agents will have a chance to gain a much better understanding of the UK market as well as learn more about the current benefits of representing UK properties.

“For starters, we give you valuable information and credible forecasts on the UK property markets, which is followed by a detailed presentation of our carefully structured, affordable yet highly rewarding modes of investments,” Khan stated. “With our vast experience, we are flexible to your needs, which is why dealing with us is sincerely enjoyable. We are also very generous in giving extensive training to local agents and we offer the most attractive commissions to agents as well as the highest returns for investors in this market as a UK developer. We understand the local investor’s needs for diversification and have a wide ranging portfolio to reflect that.”

London Heights International has a proven track record in Thailand having sold properties in the country for several years. Due to strong demand and positive feedback from existing clients, the company wanted to have a permanent presence in the country. These efforts included the opening of an office and sales gallery in Bangkok as well as reaching an agreement with Dot Property to be its principle marketing partner in Thailand.

A recent London Heights International UK property seminar in Bangkok

“We have 65 percent repeat business in Thailand. Which is why we are based permanently here with a very welcoming sales gallery, to service everyone better. I believe local property agents should attend our upcoming nationwide agent seminars or look us up right away through Dot Property and this includes real estate investors too. We have the highest yielding yet most secured investment opportunities ranging anywhere from THB1 million to THB100 million Baht, just book an appointment via Dot Property,” Khan noted.

See more:

London Heights Intenational gives local real estate agents an exclusive look at the Birmingham property market

As a Southeast Asia’s leading real estate marketplace, Dot Property provides a full suite of marketing tools that will be customised to assist London Heights International’s goals in Thailand. In addition to the UK property seminars, London Heights International and Dot Property will collaborate on several other projects in 2019. These are set to be announced in the near future.

“Dot Property is delighted to be London Heights International’s principle marketing partner in Thailand. This exciting arrangement allows us to leverage our breadth of marketing capabilities and expanded reach as a LIFULL CONNECT company to help London Heights International fulfil its ambitions in Thailand,” Adam Sutcliffe, Director of Events and International Markets at Dot Property, said.


London lobby’s art showcase

Frogmore & Galliard Homes has unveiled the new David Bailey art gallery lobby at The Chilterns in Marylebone – the first London art gallery in a private luxury apartment building.

The new lobby showcases specially commissioned works by world renowned photographer David Bailey. (
see below
).

Developed by Frogmore, Galliard Homes & CJ O Shea, The Chilterns at 24 Paddington Street provides 44 luxury residences designed by world-renowned architects Squire & Partners, and with specification and interior design by international designer Rabih Hage.

The new art gallery forms part of the striking lobby of the building; created in association with David Bailey, and it is one of the most exciting and unique features of The Chilterns. The new art space consists of a main lobby area leading into a long gallery, specially designed to showcase David Bailey’s work, with sleek white walls, polished floors and a 16 ft high ceiling. The lighting scheme is highly advanced with a combination of mood lighting and ceiling directional lights with powerful beams which illuminate Bailey’s artwork.

Personally curated by David Bailey, the new gallery displays 19 new large scale pieces by David Bailey, creating a showcase of his work in the lobby where it will remain in perpetuity for all the residents and guests of The Chilterns to enjoy.

The developers wanted to create a foyer in the building which served as both a private art gallery for residents and a striking entrance to this most luxurious of buildings. They wanted to commission artwork for the foyer from an artist who “personified London” and there was really only one man to court: David Bailey.

One of the developers, Stephen Conway, Chief Executive Officer of Galliard Homes, met with David Bailey at his studio and they swapped stories of the London’s East End in the 1960s (where both grew up) which involved a chat about who was “harder up” back then.

David Bailey liked the commission concept and saw the potential. To produce his take on Marylebone and Chiltern Street, with the project starting a good year before the now famous Chiltern Firehouse Hotel opened its doors.

Bailey took 46 photographs of the locale, one each for each apartment resident and the 19 large scale pieces to be displayed in the new art gallery lobby.  The work includes views of Regency architecture, the BBC HQ, Baker Street Underground Station, Regent’s Park and the boating lake. The David Bailey images for The Chilterns gallery document an area undergoing massive change, but with the eye of a true master – display moments in time that could be from any of the last 200 years in this famous enclave.

The 46 specially commissioned photos have also been developed into a book. Each owner of an apartment at The Chilterns will be given a framed original David Bailey print from this series, together with a copy of the book.

Commenting on the project Bailey said: “To write about Marylebone you must live there. It is easy for me to write about the East End, but I know hardly anything about Marylebone. It first came to my attention because of my fascination with books. Daunts bookshop was my introduction to the area, did it mean more people read books in Marylebone than East Ham? The next connection was The Wallace Collection. I never thought of it being anywhere but behind Selfridges with its wonderful clock.”

He added: “Marylebone seems to have an abundance of goodies from a great fish and chip shop to Wigmore Hall, Damien Hirst’s office and shop. In fact the full gambit. The best way to see a place is to photograph it. You don’t always see a place, a person, a park until you look at a photograph. So the new collection of work at The Chilterns provides my modest look at Marylebone. Keep looking until you really begin to see.”

Stephen Conway, Chief Executive Officer of Galliard Homes, said: “This is the first London art gallery with works by a world renowned photographer to be showcased within a private residential development, featuring specially commissioned works by international photographer David Bailey. The new art gallery lobby is one of the most exciting and unique features of The Chilterns. The project highlights the close interplay between London’s luxury property sector and the art world. New buildings and homes have spaces ideal for artwork, so new developments like this help to drive the market for new works of art and important existing pieces.”

The new mixed-use building at The Chilterns provides landmark architecture within a contemporary seven-storey glass and stone façade. Details include a striking stepped roofline, floor to ceiling windows with sun-shielding feature louvres, rooftop terraces and glass-fronted balconies.

Alongside the 44 luxury residences there will be a new signature restaurant; private gymnasium and sauna; private cinema; wine cellars with wine tasting room; underground parking and 24-hour hotel style concierge: forming the finest new address in London’s West End.

The residences at The Chilterns were launched in October 2013 and rapidly sold off-plan. Now with The Chilterns more than 95% build complete, the final phase of three residences have been released for sale with prices starting from £3.8 million. Final build completion scheduled for the summer of 2016 when the new apartment building and David Bailey art gallery will be opened and ready for residents and visitors to view.

www.TheChilternsW1.com


London property investment – why London, why now?

This article has been submitted by Benham and Reeves, London property investment experts. Information about how you can speak with Benham and Reeves representatives can be found at the end of this article.

London property has long been a safe haven for international investors, enjoying significant investment from the Middle East, the US and of course, South East Asia. And investors have reaped the rewards – the UK’s Office of National Statistics reports that the average London house price was just over GBP 70,000 in 1988.  Today it is GBP 476,000 – a 580 percent increase over 30 years.

Rental demand is strong, with renting becoming the norm amongst Londoners – one third now live in private, rented accommodation and this is predicted to rise to 60 percent by 2025. Yet demand continues to outstrip supply and this shortage of homes provides a real opportunity for investors.

London is a global hub for finance, tourism, business and education. But it is a complex city, with rental demand varying between areas and multiple factors affecting local property values.

So expert, local knowledge is essential for successful investment.

There will be an increase in demand for rental units in London.

You need to know where to invest and what type of property is most sought-after. You may believe Zone 1 is the best location but prohibitive property prices in traditional areas like Knightsbridge mean rental yields are low – around 2 percent.

Rental hotspots now are Zones 3 and 4 where purchase prices are lower, yet rental demand is high due to major regeneration schemes and new transport links. Nine Elms (home to the famous Battersea Power Station) and east London are well known, where typical yields are 3-5 percent.

So you need to do your homework, or work with property investment specialists who know London in depth.

Why us?

Benham and Reeves is a name synonymous with successful property sales and rental investment in London for over 60 years. With 17 branches (mainly located near or within popular property developments), we are one of central London’s oldest independent property rental/leasing companies, offering services from advice on where to buy for best long-term investment potential, handover and furnishings to finding tenants and full property management.

Last year, we let 3000 properties, worth GBP 1.75 billion, many to corporate tenants working for FTSE 100 and Fortune 500 companies.

Unlike most London leasing agencies, we have offices across Southeast Asia – in China, India, Hong Kong, Singapore and in Malaysia – staffed by experienced, tri-lingual professionals. We also have dedicated China and Japan desks in London.

Our directors visit Southeast Asia regularly, updating clients on market news and giving talks to banks and financial organisations. We advise on where to invest, where rental demand is strongest and which areas are up-and-coming. We offer expert analysis of property trends, explain what it is happening to property values, the market’s long-term outlook and influences including new transport links and the impact of the UK’s exit from the European Union.

Anyone interested in investment with no commitment needed – just a simple discussion on factors influencing the property market and how we might assist you with your investment plans – can contact Lynne Geeves at +65 6463 6026 or by email
[email protected]
. For more information, go to
www.benhams.com


London property revival makes ASEAN investors take notice

For many Southeast Asian real estate investors, the search for overseas property begins and ends in London. The capital is seen as a safe bet, especially for Malaysian and Singaporean buyers. Interest for homes in England’s capital has picked up and the market is experiencing a renaissance of sorts. Some experts are even calling this a London property revival.

“The London real estate market is currently enjoying a revival, with many new projects being offered to potential purchasers in Malaysia almost on a weekly basis. With this seemingly continuous supply, the potential purchaser is spoilt with choices,” Francis Chua, Head of International Properties at Rahim & Co International, noted. “However, as with all investments, there may be pitfalls. These range from overpriced units to poor quality finishes and irresponsible developers. We at Rahim & Co. vet developers carefully and only market property from selected reputable developers, thus ensuring our clients the best London has to offer.”

Rahim & Co is helping market London projects in Malaysia while its partner, One Global, is doing the same in Singapore. Both firms are members of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, an invitation-only network of global agencies. Property investors from both Malaysia and Singapore appreciate the openness of the London market as well as the ability to buy numerous property types.

“UK has always attracted astute investors from all over the world, and the UK property market is one of the most open property markets available. Unlike some countries, qualified property investors are not restricted to what they are allowed to invest in, be it residential or commercial properties,” Chua pointed out. “Furthermore, the residential properties that are available to investors residing in Malaysia are not restricted to apartments only. They may also buy landed properties.”

Looking off-plan

Westgate House in London

In terms of property types, Chua noted off-plan apartments are fueling the London property revival due to the initial outlay being relatively small and full payment, usually serviced by loans from local banks, not being due until the apartment has been completed. This can significantly benefit investors regardless of if they are in it short or long term.

“Astute investors are attracted by the chance of capital gains upon handover, which may be a few years later. Coupled with a well-planned loan scheme, this investment provide very good return,” Chua said. “If the purchaser then decides to retain the apartment after handover for rental returns, we can recommend very good property management companies which handle the tasks involved in the letting out of London properties for the owner.”

There is more to it than investment in the London residential real estate market for many Malaysian and Singaporean buyers. The city holds a special place in the hearts of many people while the educational opportunities are also very important.

“Emotional returns in the form of enriched lifestyle of having a prestigious address in London are immeasurable. Providing a secure base for their children who study in London brings peace of mind to the client,” Chua stated. “The possibility of capital gains on the property is an added bonus, whatever the reasons for the purchase.”

Westgate House in Ealing is one development popular with Rahim & Co’s investor clients. It is in a strategic location near the future Elizabeth Line that will benefit from the Crossrail line that will improve London’s public transit. There is strong potential for capital gains and high demand from tenants which all make the luxurious development an outstanding investment.

Stadia Three in suburban London

Stadia Three, an all-new development in Wimbledon, is another project being launched in Malaysia by Rahim & Co. Residents of Stadia Three are able to enjoy an active lifestyle as they benefit from the wonderful local amenities making it suitable for both investors and owner-occupiers. The project was well received during the launch in Malaysia proving once again London is in.

The good and bad of Brexit

Brexit has certainly affected some segments of the London real estate market, but the impact hasn’t been widespread. The negative effects were mostly evident in the high-end segment. Chua explained property prices fell by about 10 percent year-on-year in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, one of London’s most upscale districts. It is a different story in suburban areas of the capital where the London property revival is in full swing.

“The price rises are found in the outer London boroughs. These properties attract the more discerning property buyer, and quite rightly so, due to the fact that they are more affordable and hence provide good value for the price paid,” Chua noted.

As tenuous negotiations continue between the UK and EU, many observers are wondering how a hard Brexit would impact the London property market. According to Chua, the resultant immigration control may result in a softer rental market, but long term, a Britain that is able to trade on its own terms may have a positive impact on the economy and result in renewed confidence in property prices.

“We believe that, independent of the possible effects of Brexit, which are speculative at best, if the property is chosen carefully, now would be a great time to invest in quality selections given the current pricing and the favourable exchange rate for most Southeast Asian currencies,” Chua concluded.

This story on the London property revival can be found in Dot Property Magazine’s Southeast Asia Wealth And Outbound Investment Report 2018.

Click here to read it
.


London tops HK for office prices

Hong Kong’s Central and West Kowloon ranked second and fifth respectively in a list of the world’s most expensive office locations, according to CBRE Research’s semi-annual Global Prime Office Occupancy Costs survey.

But it was London’s West End overall prime occupancy costs that topped the list at US$ 273 per sq ft per year. Hong Kong (Central) followed in second place with prime occupancy costs of US$ 269 per sq ft per year. Beijing (Finance Street) at US$ 191 per sq ft per year, Beijing (CBD) at US$ 183 per sq ft per year, and Hong Kong (West Kowloon) at US$ 162 per sq ft per year, rounded out the top five.

Hong Kong (Central) remained the only market in the world – other than London’s West End – with a prime occupancy cost exceeding US$ 200 per sq ft per annum however, there is some evidence that overseas financial services companies are resistant to continued high costs and may be seeking alternatives to a Hong Kong location.

Prime occupancy costs – which reflect rent, plus local taxes and service charges – increased at a 2.4 percent annual pace globally as the world economy continued to gradually improve, and the service sector, a key bellwether for prime office space, entered its fourth year of expansion, driving healthy demand for space in top-quality properties.

Prime occupancy costs in Asia-Pacific increased by 1.9 percent year-over-year from 1.4 percent during Q1 2015 compared with 3.1 percent growth in the Americas and 2.2 percent growth in EMEA.

Dr. Henry Chin, Head of Research, CBRE Asia-Pacific, said, “The TMT sector continues to drive office leasing demand in Asia-Pacific, with healthy appetite for prime quality space in search for talents across the region.

“Domestic financial services companies will also remain the main drivers of leasing activity, although demand will likely moderate after several years of strong growth. Cost saving remains at the top of the occupier agenda with renewals being one of the main themes.”

CBRE tracks occupancy costs for prime office space in 126 markets around the globe. Of the top 50 ’most expensive’ markets, Asia-Pacific had the most number of markets featured, with 20 markets ranked.


London’s priciest show home

Galliard Homes, working with award-winning designer Nicola Fontanella (pictured) of Argent Design, has launched London’s most unique, entertaining and most expensive residential property marketing suite for its latest development.

The Stage will be a £750 million transformation of a 2.3 acre site of William Shakespeare’s Curtain Theatre into a new mixed use destination for London.

Bold and adventurous, The Stage marketing suite is a world away from a conventional sales portacabin. The new 8,000 sq ft on-site suite is located in the historic brick arches of a Victorian railway viaduct originally built in 1865 by engineer William Baker and opened by Queen Victoria as part of the North London Railway Line. It has been disused since 1986.

Located in Shoreditch, The Stage is designed around a new 1.28 acre public square that will showcase the sunken remains of Shakespeare’s Tudor Curtain theatre. The development by Galliard Homes is a joint-venture with Cain Hoy, McCourt, Vanke and The Estate Office Shoreditch. The new square will be bordered by 400,000 sq ft of mixed-use space, including cafes, restaurants and shops with four striking new buildings – a 37-storey residential tower providing 412 private apartments and penthouses; two office buildings providing more than 257,000 sq ft of ‘blue chip’ commercial space and retail premises at ground level and a leisure/performing arts pavilion.

Currently housing the new marketing suite, the railway viaduct – located on one side of the square – will be restored with the brick arches accommodating 9,000 sq ft of new shops and bars and the top of the viaduct landscaped into a park with a tea/coffee house.

The one-bedroom show apartment has an elegant living room with coffered ceiling, designed in the style of a Mayfair gentleman’s club. Features include metallic grey bespoke cabinetry, housing a 55-inch plasma screen, complete with Chesterfield sofa in Herringbone fabric; a Missoni carpet with a West Country style weave; dog-tooth pattern jewel boxes, Colonial-style fanlights and British bulldog ornaments. The walls are dressed with pop-art illustrations in keeping with the D-Face collection. The open plan fully fitted designer kitchen/breakfast area is chic and stylish with contrasting textured tabacco wood and matt grey kitchen units, brushed steel plinths, quartz stone worktops and Miele integrated appliances.

Nicola Fontanella, Founding and Managing Director of Argent Design, said: “This is the most unique and entertaining lifestyle-come-marketing suite Argent has ever created. Combining historic Victorian brick arches with bespoke British contemporary furnishings and D-Face artwork to create the City of London’s most electric destination.”

David Galman, Sales Director of Galliard Homes, added: “In our view this is the most outstanding marketing suite and the coolest show-apartment in London. For anyone interested in the capital’s finest new homes our marketing suite is a “must see” destination. The regeneration of this Shakespearean site will elevate the status of Shoreditch to that of the uber-cool Meatpacking district in downtown New York City.”

The residential tower at The Stage will provide 412 luxurious studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and four-bedroom duplex penthouses. Main construction works for The Stage are anticipated to start next month with final build completion scheduled for Q1 2019.

The Stage launched for sales yesterday evening (Thursday) and prices start from £695,000.

www.thestageshoreditch.com


What to look for when inspecting a resale property

New homes, especially condos, have grown in popularity over the past decade, but many people still prefer to buy resale property. There are various reasons for this. For example, it can be difficult to find new properties in specific areas. Additionally, some people just prefer buying a completed unit.

When it comes to buying a resale property, the most important part of the process is the inspection. All resale property is bound to have some wear and tear, so don’t be turned off if things aren’t perfect. On the other hand, you do need to draw a line between what is reasonable to expect and what’s over the top.

This is where the inspection comes in. Before you agree to buy a resale property, you are going to want to conduct a thorough inspection to make sure everything is in order. With that in mind, here are a few things you’re going to want to look for.

Tips for resale property inspections

1) Check the walls

Be sure to inspect the walls, paying attention to two things. The first is cracks. The easiest way to tell a good property from a bad one is if the walls are cracking. While these cracks aren’t usually dangerous, they do suggest the developer may have used average products during construction.

The second thing to keep an eye out for is paint. See if there is any paint cracking or chipping. This could be a sign that you’ll need to repaint the property. Also, look for any pictures, mirrors or other oddly placed objects. The owner may be trying to cover up some sort of wall damage.

See more:

3 small details that can add value to your condo unit

2) Ask for past utilities bills

The utilities bill will provide you with some imperfect insights about the resale property you’re inspecting. If the bill seems high, you’ll want to investigate the windows, air conditioner and general layout to see what is causing this. Older windows or inefficient AC units may require replacing if they look to be the culprit.

And if the bill seems cheap, dig a little deeper to see if there are any clues as to why this may be. Are there a lot of fans around? Does the AC unit look new? If you still have questions or concerns, you can always ask the owner for an explanation.

3) Bring a second set of eyes

No matter how good of an inspector you think you are, it is always good to have a friend or significant other come with. Not only can they act as a secondary observer scanning for things you may have missed, but they’ll also provide you with general feedback. Perhaps there was something they liked or disliked that you hadn’t even thought of.

Looking for resale property?
Start your search on Dot Property today
!


Looking back at Southeast Asia’s breakthrough developers from last year

DOJI Land on stage at the Dot Property Southeast Asia Awards 2022

In order to be considered as one of Southeast Asia’s breakthrough developers, firms must demonstrate the ability to innovate, elevate and establish themselves as a real estate leader. At last year’s Dot Property Awards, several homebuilders joined these elite ranks.

But before we look back at Southeast Asia’s breakthrough developers from last year, don’t forget that entries are now open for the Dot Property Awards 2023. Do you have what it takes to be considered the best? Enter and find out.
Submit your entry today
!

Southeast Asia’s breakthrough developers in 2023

DOJI LAND

DOJI LAND is one of the more unique developers in Southeast Asia. It was founded by DOJI Gold & Gems Group, the country’s leading name in jewelry and precious stones. That background is what drove the firm to focus exclusively on the luxury property segment when it launched a real estate business.

Driven by a desire to create masterpieces that offer unsurpassed quality of life, the firm made its breakthrough in 2022 thanks in part to work on projects such as Sapphire Residence which is designed to produce one-of-a-kind beauty just like the precious gemstone it is named after. At the end of the day, luxury isn’t simply a marketing tool for DOJI LAND but a mindset that inspires their developments. The firm was named Best Breakthrough Developer at the Dot Property Southeast Asia Awards 2022.

Related:

DOJI LAND creates architectural treasures with artistic value to break through

Fulcrum Ventures Asia Group

Fulcrum Ventures Asia Group at the Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022

For Fulcrum Ventures Asia Group, the past 12 months have been a time of growth and success. The firm built on its previous accomplishments to truly breakthrough as a housing developer in 2022. From the impressive launch of
Panara Bangna-Suvarnabhumi
 to its thoughtful home designs, Fulcrum Ventures Asia Group has really elevated its operations.

This hard work did not go unnoticed. The homebuilder was presented with Best Breakthrough Housing Developer at the Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022. It was a special moment for Fulcrum Ventures Asia Group, who have put in a lot of effort over a short amount of time.

Watch:
Fulcrum Ventures Asia Group makes its breakthrough as a Bangkok housing developer

RLC Residences

The team from RLC Residences celebrates at the Dot Property Philippines Awards

RLC Residences took the next step in its journey to become a leading developer by picking up eight honors at the Dot Property Philippines Awards 2022. This success stems from its ‘Raise Live Connect’ philosophy that aspires to elevate the entire experience for its homebuyers and residents. The developer aims to create places where people can flourish and that is one of the reasons it was presented with the Special Recognition Award for Community Building.

That work, alongside numerous sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives, helped RLC Residences win Best Developer Sustainable Living at the Dot Property Philippines Awards 2022. Elsewhere in the developer categories, the firm scooped up Best Developer Metro Manila.

Keep Reading:

RLC Residences shines at the Dot Property Philippines Awards

Garden Atlas Development

Garden Atlas Awards won two honors at the Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022

There is no doubt that 2022 will forever be remembered as a big year for Garden Atlas Development. The Phuket-based homebuilder earned much-deserved recognition at the Dot Property Thailand Awards, taking home the honors for Best Breakthrough Developer Phuket and Best Luxury Villa Architectural Design Phuket.

The accolades mean a great deal for the firm who has dedicated its time and energy to craft a one-of-a-kind villa development in Phuket that provides exclusivity and comfort in style. It took a lot of hard work to reach this moment, but it paid off in the end. Ultimately, success at the Dot Property Thailand Awards 2022 will inspire the Garden Atlas team to reach even greater heights in the future.

Learn More:

Garden Atlas Development makes a name for itself through amazing design

Do you have what it takes to join the winners’ kist this year? Dot Property Awards 2023 presentation ceremonies are scheduled for Vietnam in July, Thailand in August, the Philippines in September and Southeast Asia in December.
Submit your entry today
!


Looking beyond London: 3 English cities smart investors are considering

London is still a prime destination for real estate investment, but savvy investors are looking beyond the English capital in search of better rental yields. Not only are prices cheaper outside of London, but demand for rental homes remains strong in several cities. There are a number of non-London English cities smart investors are considering

Brexit has been a source of concern for some investors, but those from Southeast Asia view this time as an opportunity. With the pound falling against most regional currencies, real estate prices are more affordable than in the past. There was an initial rush on London property in the aftermath of Brexit, but more buyers are now looking beyond the capital. Here are three English cities smart investors are considering.

Manchester

Best known for its football clubs, Manchester is also the biggest technology hub and creative centre outside of London. Young professionals from across the UK are moving here, and not London, because of its affordability and lifestyle.

For investors, the city is providing outstanding rental yields.
IP Global found that Manchester boasted the highest rental yields in the UK at 6.02 percent
. The real estate market shows no signs of slowing down with employment expected to increase in the coming years.

Click here to see Manchester property for sale

Liverpool

The city most famous for ‘The Beatles’ is developing a reputation as a property investment hotspot. Liverpool is home to the second highest rental yields in the UK. The 5.16 percent returns are significantly higher than what’s available in most London districts at the moment.

Additionally, a large student population makes Liverpool an ideal location for those investors wanting to leverage the education boom. More than 50,000 university students are studying in Liverpool with properties catering to the unique needs of this segment in high demand.

Sheffield

Many experts are predicting that Sheffield will be the UK’s next big property market. At the moment, the city has a significant housing shortage. The lack of modern, new-build developments, in particular, is noticeable despite there being a strong demand for units in this segment.

One of the few new-build projects in the pipeline is
Great Central
 from Knight Knox and Qualis Developments. The fully-furnished units come fitted with everything residents could want. The development itself is located near the centre of Sheffield in an area very popular with the city’s growing number of young professionals.

Find a UK investment property today


Looking at the Chiang Mai property market and how you can find the best price

The Chiang Mai property market was hit but COVID-19 but many sellers aren't actively discounting prices

The past 12 months have been challenging for the real estate sector in Thailand. When it comes to the Chiang Mai property market, rentals have been hit the hardest although sales have been slower than previous years. Unlike in Bangkok and other tourist destinations, sellers haven’t been in a rush to move their real estate.

“The sales market hasn’t really seen a big difference in pricing as sellers are fine waiting it out hoping prices rebound to previous levels. Buying in general has declined, but not as much as the rental market. There is a small amount of people who have lowered their prices significantly,” Alex Amarre, Managing Director at 66 Property, states. “Additionally, the Chiang Mai property market was slowed down by the second wave of COVID-19.”

Looking ahead to 2021, some buyers have reemerged looking to scoop up properties at a discount. This group has encountered a few roadblocks as many sellers are either waiting on the sidelines or wanting buyers to make the first move.

“We think the Chiang Mai property market in 2021 will still be suppressed, but there are already people out there looking for good deals. Unfortunately, the best deals are not advertised,” Amarre notes. “The best strategy is to find a property you are interested in and then negotiate hard. This is the advice that we give our clients who are looking to buy and the usually find good deals.”

Why Chiang Mai and where should you look?

The things people still love about Chiang Mai remain. The high quality of life, laidback lifestyle and unique culture are all there. In many ways, it is perfectly suited for retirement or remote working. However, the shine of the city has lost some luster over the past few years.

That’s because Chiang Mai has received a lot of bad press due to pollution and traffic problems. It’s also not uncommon to hear grumpy expats moaning about how the city has “sold out”. Amarre believes that while a few issues do exist, Chiang Mai remains one of the coolest places around.

“The smoke can be an issue, but the quality of life in Chiang Mai is very high. I think buying a home to live in and then traveling for three months of the year is the way to go. That is what most Chiang Mai expats do,” Amarre said.

When looking for a home in Chiang Mai, it is important to know what type of neighborhood ambiance you want. Amarre noted that when it comes to city living, Nimman is still his favorite place with Santitham being a great alternative. Those looking to move to the city for retirement or wanting to build a house may want to consider other areas.

“If you are looking to buy a house for retirement, I would recommend Nam Phrae in the Hang Dong area. You could look at Maerim as well. Those are definitely the best choices for relaxed local living,” Amarre reported. “If you are looking to buy or build a house, I would suggest Chang Kian or Pong Noi area.”

66 Property is a Chiang Mai property market leader

66 Property
 has become a leader in the Chiang Mai property market despite being around for only a few years. The agency has focused on improving real estate processes,
such as providing virtual tours
, in order to meet the everchanging needs of clients. It’s all part of the company’s goal to improve the property sector as a whole.

“We aim for the top and then some and intend to work towards solving real issues in the real estate market. Not just in Chiang Mai, but all of Thailand,” Amarre said. “We will accomplish this through hard work and being honest in our dealings.”

To learn more about the Chiang Mai property market and 66 Property, please visit:
https://66property.com/


How lucrative are short term lettings?

Short terms generate higher rents than long term tenancies but there are reasons for this.

Recently we discussed the varying attitudes of
Airbnb in Malaysia.
 With different laws across the country, Malaysia is fairly relaxed to this online platform. Whereas some countries, such as Singapore, are trying to discourage the operation of Airbnb by placing restrictions on short term lettings.

As a landlord in Malaysia – assuming that you are located in an area that permits short term lettings – leasing out your property on a short term basis is a lucrative option. Plus it could widen your net to prospective tenants too by including holidaymakers. After all you want to generate the best rental yield that you can. However there are a few points that you need to consider with short term lettings that are not applicable for longer term tenancies. (Note long term tenancies are usually anything over six months.)

So before you set up your Airbnb host profile, remember the following about short term lettings:

1. Longer void periods are expected.

The appeal of a long term tenancy is that it is guaranteed how long the property is let for. Whereas for a short term let the money may roll in thick and fast but there are likely to be times when the property is left empty with no income being generated. Project the rent over the course of the year and account for a void period in order to see which is the better option for you.

2. Management heavy.

Short term lets are labour intensive. It is fine if your sole job is to look after the property but if this is a sideline on top of your day-to-day job then you may find you don’t have time to deal with short term lets. Therefore this might be the time to consider hiring someone to look after this for you. As part of your costs you will need to include the management costs of moving people in and out of the property, as well as cleans in between tenancies and any other requests that the tenants may make.

3. Utilities needed to be included.

Electricity, water and Internet come as part of the rent for short term lets hence the rent is higher. Don’t forget that this is an additional are that you need to manage. Additionally tenants who are not responsible for their utilities may not use them as efficiency and could be prone to leaving the air conditioning on. This will then hike up your costs and cut into your profits.

4. Property needs to be fully furnished.

Tenants of short terms lets will want to turn up with just their suitcase. You will therefore need to provide everything from towels, teaspoons, bedding and electrical items such as a television, which is not always expected for long term lettings. Plus these items will need replacing should they go missing or get broken.


Luxury prices up in Klang Valley

Although transaction activity in the Klang Valley luxury condominium market was less active last year compared with previous years, average transacted prices still rose.

According to
research from real estate services firm CH Williams Talhar & Wong (WTW)
, luxury condominiums in the Golden Triangle were transacted at RM 1,500 per sq ft on average, whereas secondary areas remained firm at RM 920 per sq ft on average.

Average occupancy rates for condominiums and serviced residences remained at between 77 percent and 80 percent in the Golden Triangle area of the capital, and between 60 percent and 65 percent in secondary areas.

The total number of luxury condominiums in Kuala Lumpur stood at 36,252 units in 2015 according to the research, an increase of 4,625 units compared with 2014. The total number of luxury condominiums units is expected to increase by another 13,500 units during the coming two years.

Central Kuala Lumpur, Embassy Row, Mont Kiara/Sri Hartamas and the Golden Triangle remained the prime localities for high-end condominiums developments. The market was quiet during the first quarter of 2015 with only two new launches, while the second quarter saw more new launches, especially in Embassy Row (Ampang Hilir/U-Thant) and the Golden Triangle.

The condominiums sector is expected to be more challenging in the next two years, with the large incoming supply scheduled for completion in 2016 and 2017, according to the firm.

The infrastructure developments, such as MRT SSP Line and East Klang Valley Expressway (EKVE), is likely to spur more condominiums developments in the prime and suburban areas.

However, developers are advised to maintain a cautious stand. The rental market is expected to be a tenant’s market, with more choice of units coming on stream during 2016.


Lyf: for millennials

‘Lyf’ is the new brand to be added to the Ascott’s portfolio.

Lyf (pronounced life) is a brand aimed just at
millennials
. Ascott has identified the value in this demographic of the population that spends more than USD 200 billion annually, and has built something for them that will work. This serviced apartment maintains Ascott’s reputation in terms of quality but it comes with a twist. Lyf is, ‘Designed for and managed by millennials, to seize opportunities in rising trend of co-living and co-working’.

Expected to launch 10,000 units by 2020, Mr Lee Chee Koon, Ascott’s chief executive officer, said, “Millennials already form a quarter of Ascott’s customers and this segment is poised to grow exponentially. Lyf is a unique accommodation tailored for this demographic, including technopreneurs, start-ups and individuals from music, media and fashion. We do not define millennials by age but instead they are a social generation who crave discoveries and desire to be part of a community. Lyf will provide global jetsetters and trendsetters with the opportunity to ‘Live Your Freedom’ in a dynamic environment and network with like-minded creatives to bring more ideas to life. Most importantly, they can be assured of a consistent quality in products and services, given Ascott’s track record in managing award-winning properties worldwide.”

Ascott have focused on gateway cities for this brand. Situated in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Germany, France plus the United Kingdom will enable guests to pick from the wide range of different styles of property wherever they are in the world.

The concept is simple. Each property will be managed by a ‘Lyf Guard’, who could be a resident and most importantly fall into the millennial demographic. The ethos is to get people communicating through daily life, which the Lyf Guard has to achieve. This interaction could be in the communal areas which can be used as co-working spaces, but shifting their usage to spaces of social gatherings or workshops when needed.


What makes for a good starter home?

Finding a good starter home can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s because there is almost always a discrepancy between what you’re looking for and what you can actually buy. The excitement of making the biggest purchase in your life usually gives way to the stress of searching after a few days.

For newlyweds and young professionals, it is important to have a realistic idea of what makes a good starter home. The difference between this and, say, your dream residence is huge, so tempering expectations now can help you avoid disappointment later.

This doesn’t have to be a negative though. You will love your starter home and as long as you know what to look for, finding it can be relatively stress free.

Qualities of a good starter home

Affordability

Long story short, a good starter home must fit within your budget. Purchasing one you’ll struggle to afford immediately places you in an uncomfortable situation. What’s more, it may make it difficult to save for your next home.

An affordable, modest starter home is a great way to secure your future without having to make huge sacrifices or take risks. It may not have all the bells and whistles, but you will be better off down the road.

Resale value

As life moves on and your family grows, most people will find their first home no longer has the space or amenities needed. A good starter home will be one with resale value that hopefully increases in price over time. The capital appreciation of that first residence can be used to finance the purchase of your next home.

Feeling

It is difficult to make buying a starter home a completely rational experience. Emotion is going to be involved. While it’s most likely impossible to get everything you want, you don’t want to settle for a house or condo that doesn’t make you feel something positive. Even if you only plan on living there for a few years to build your finances, you don’t want to be miserable.

Looking for a starter home?
Start your search on Dot Property
!


Malaysia gets a slice of “Cool Japan”

Malaysia gets a slice of “Cool Japan” – the first location to get a piece of Japan’s creative initiative, in fact.

The growing number of high income earners in Malaysia caught Japan’s eye. Isetan’s Nobuharu Yutani reported that
Malaysia’s market influence
 within ASEAN and the Middle was a reason it’s capital was selected for the first overseas Isetan Cool Japan Department Store.

“Mirai Suenaga figurines dressed in traditional Malaysian costumes are among the attractions at Isetan’s new concept store in Kuala Lumpur.”*

The concept store brings along an initiative called “Cool Japan,” to promote creative

industries within Malaysia and aims to promote Japanese lifestyle, culture, technology and design. Specially trained promoters from Japan and Team Nadeshiko have been brought in to help train the local staff too.

Covering 11,000 square meters of space in Bukit Bintang, an area of Kuala Lumpur that is popular with tourists, shoppers will be able to explore various foods, fashions, arts, furniture and even fine dining in the six-story Isetan Cool Japan Department store.

The concept store is 51:49 owned by Isetan of Japan, the local unit of Isetan Mitsukoshi and Cool Japan Fund, with paid-up capital of $19.7 million USD. Isetan department stores date back a century and there are now 31 outlets in seven countries, four of which are in Malaysia.

*Image Source: Nikkei Asian Review


Malaysia lowers foreign ownership price requirements to ease condo glut

Early this month, Malaysian Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng revealed that the government intends to lower the foreign ownership price requirements for high-rise condominium units in the country’s urban areas.

Overseas buyers will be able to purchase high-rise condo units for a minimum of MYR600,000 (USD143,400). This is down from the current price floor of MYR1 million (USD239,000) which was put in place to prevent a bubble from forming. The new regulations go into effect at the start of next year.

“Since there are not enough Malaysians buying high-rise condominiums and apartments in urban areas, there is a property overhang. We have to sell them or developers will get into trouble. And overhang in property will result in a national crisis, which has happened in Hong Kong and Tokyo due to overdevelopment,” Lim told reporters during a recent conference. “We have to get rid of this overhang so that the market for property becomes healthy again.”

Jagdev Singh, PwC Malaysia Tax Leader, welcomed the move, but also warned that more information was needed in order to determine the full impact of the lower foreign ownership price requirements.

“Questions abound as to whether the relaxation of foreign owners should be limited to the secondary market or extended to the primary market and if there is a need for a minimum holding period as well as a limit in whom they can sell to,”
he told Edge Property
.

According to data from the National Property Information Centre, nearly 4,000 condo units in the country would now be eligible for foreign ownership. More than 75 percent of these properties are located in Kuala Lumpur, Johor and Penang.

However, many experts point out that the condo glut in Malaysia can’t solely be attributed to the restrictions of foreign ownership.

“The property overhang is attributed to various factors such as mismatch of products and location rather than pricing alone,”
Knight Frank Managing Director Sarkunan Subramaniam was quoted as saying by the Malay Mail
. “Some units remain unsold due to less favourable location in terms of accessibilities, distance and lack of amenities as well as product type.”

The Malaysian government has no plans to supplement the new foreign ownership price requirements with a citizenship or permanent residency scheme. Some had hoped this would be the case, but Malaysia Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad dismissed the idea.

“If foreigners bought the property, we will not give them Malaysian citizenship. They can only use it as their holiday home,” the Prime Minister stated.


Malaysia ranked world’s top retirement haven

Expatriates from across the Western world flock to Malaysia to retire.

According to the 2015 Global Retirement Index, Malaysia has taken fourth place out of the 84 countries ranked as the world’s top retirement havens. Expatriates from America, Australia, New Zealand and countries all across Europe are choosing Malaysia as their home once reaching retirement.

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme offers an attractive 10 year, renewable and multiple entry visa to qualified applicants, which makes retiring in Malaysia that much easier for expatriates. Not to mention, the other benefits of the programme that include permission to purchase property, a state ID card allowing expatriates to pass Malaysian immigration as a resident rather than a foreign national, education and tax perks, and the option to work part time.

Expatriates can bring their retirement income into Malaysia and once converted into Malaysia Ringgit will see its value triple. Coupled with Malaysia’s low cost of living, expatriates relish in a higher quality of life living very comfortably on only RM 6,000 per month (roughly USD 1,500).

It’s not just Malaysia’s MM2H visa programme and low cost of living that attracts expatriates, the country also offers natural, green surroundings and vibrant local cultures. The beaches have been ranked among some of the top in the world, and can be enjoyed during all of the comfortable four seasons offered by Malaysia’s tropical climate. With easy transportation access on Malaysia’s high-speed rail options, travelers can also visit a number of UNESCO heritage sites whilst enjoying Malaysia’s rolling mountains.

Interested in becoming an MM2H participant? Visit www.mm2h.gov.my for more information and get on your way to living in beautiful Malaysia!


Malaysia tops Aussie retirement chart

Australians flock to Malaysia as the country has numerous attractive retirement qualities.

Malaysia has been dubbed as the best place to retire for Australian citizens. This is according to Internationalliving.com a website dedicated entirely on advising suitable places to retire. It ranks housing, visas, lifestyle, amenities, and healthcare in order to reach its conclusions.

Factors that have spurred on the 200,000 Australians who currently reside in Malaysia. Figures that are supplemented by the country’s
Malaysia My Second Home scheme
 that grants visas to retirees wishing to settle down in the country. Additionally Malaysia is very accessible from Australia. There are countless direct flights operating from Kuala Lumpur that include destinations such as Sydney, the Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide.

Australia’s sky high property prices and everyday costs are two reasons that many look overseas to retire. Malaysia provides a great alternative due to its attractive price point but with lots of home comforts thrown in. This includes good, fast internet, as well as the fact that English is common language making communication a breeze. The country also boasts a great healthcare system. It already entices vast quantities of medical tourists annually, and is something that retirees can benefit from too. The retirement website cites figures that include just AUD 16 to see a surgeon, a fraction of the cost on home turf.

Internationalliving.com have placed Vietnam at the top of their charts as the best place to retire if looking at the cost of living alone. Low rents is one of the most contributing factors for this Asian Tiger winning this accolade. But affordable eating out and purchasing fresh food have also helped push Vietnam into pole position.


Malaysian interest in London property picks up as exchange rate falls

With a bustling lifestyle and links to London, Kingston upon Thames is a popular place of property investment

The strengthening Ringgit along with an impending stamp duty hike on overseas investors and a sluggish local real estate market have seen Malaysian buyers acquire London properties at a record pace.

The Pound fell against the Ringgit in September after an August stretch that saw some of the most unfavourable exchange rates in two years. The sudden strengthening of the Ringgit was one reason buyers have acted quickly in re-entering the London property market.

Malaysian buyers are also wanting to take advantage of the UK Stamp Duty Holiday Benefits while at the same time avoid a two percent stamp duty surcharge for non-UK tax residents purchasing real estate in the UK that goes into
effect next April
.

These factors have seen property investors act with a greater sense of urgency when it comes to purchasing residential real estate in London. But this demand isn’t simply limited to central London locations. Areas such as Kingston upon Thames are growing in popularity due to the long-term potential they hold.

According to CBRE, property prices in Kingston upon Thames are set to increase by 12 percent in the next five years while rental prices will rise by 16 percent during this time.

Why Kingston upon Thames?

A significant regeneration is happening in Kingston upon Thames

Kingston upon Thames has direct access to central London, a vibrant lifestyle scene and is surrounded by some of London’s largest green spaces which makes it appealing to a diverse section of renters and buyers. London Waterloo can be reached in 30-minutes by rail from Kingston train station while the A3, M3 and M25 are all a short-drive away.

Transportation links with central London are being strengthened even further with a GBP30 million refurbishment around the train station. Crossrail 2 will provide even greater connectivity with it being possible to reach the West End in 30 minutes once operational.

Meanwhile, the town centre is undergoing a GBP1.5 billion transformation that will build upon Kingston upon Thames’ impressive lifestyle choices. Plans call for a GBP400 million development of Eden Walk that will create new shops, restaurants and cafes along with a boutique cinema and homes.

Even with all of these modern comforts, Kingston upon Thames remains one of the greenest boroughs in London. It is close to a pair of London’s largest Royal Parks; Richmond Park and Bushy Park. This combination of city and nature is one of the main reasons it is among London’s most desirable places to live.

The premier Kingston upon Thames property investment opportunity

Royal Exchange, a new development from St George, offers everything property investors are searching for

Located in Greater London, historic Kingston upon Thames was once a place where Saxon kings were crowned. Today, it is a cosmopolitan town known for green spaces, schools and happening lifestyle areas, such as Market Town.

Just a few steps away from all of these is Royal Exchange, a new development from St George, a member of Berkeley Group. The project truly embraces the history of Kingston upon Thames. It is being developed around the Grade II listed Old Post Office and Telephone Exchange, two buildings that are more than 100-years old. The landmarks are being restored as part of the project and will become a new social, cultural and lifestyle hub for the town once finished.

These will be complemented by several new buildings containing one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses designed with modern residents in mind. Each unit features quality materials installed by skilled craftspeople ensuring that fittings and finishes are of a high standard.

Living spaces have been carefully planned to be practical while still exuding a fine aesthetic design. All of this work is part of St. George’s belief that a home should be a statement of style.
You can see this for yourself by taking a 3D tour of one of the apartments in Royal Exchange

Additionally, those living at Royal Exchange will have access to private courtyard gardens and several upscale amenities, including a residents’ only gym and cinema room.

Royal Exchange is the best Kingston upon Thames property investment currently available. With rental rates and property prices predicted to increase and time running out before the stamp duty surcharge for overseas buyers goes into effect, now is the best time to invest.

Request more information about Royal Exchange and Kingston upon Thames property investment
.