Category Archives: Developers

Shoebox homes get space-saving features

Shoebox units, which are no more than 500 sq ft in size, are gaining in popularity with home buyers, given their lower prices. In fact the URA (Urban Redevelopment Authority) has forecast supply of small units to grow to 8,200 by end-2015 from just 2,400 presently.

As such, property developers are integrating space-saving features into their new projects to further maximise living and storage space.

For instance, City Developments Limited (CDL) is incorporating a unique storage space design at The Palette, its condo development in Pasir Ris. One-bedder apartments at the project range in sizes from 495 sq ft to 700 sq ft.

CDL is “always looking into exploring new ideas where space saving is key,” said Project Manager Allen Ang.

One innovation that stands out is a customised hinge system that prevents storage covers from slamming. While it’s still patent-pending, the new feature has been a hit with customers.

Meanwhile, Far East Organization has introduced enhancements into its newly launched Hillsta project, which offers a mix of condo, Soho and townhouse units.

Located in Choa Chu Kang, a one-bedroom Soho unit ranges from around 540 sq ft to 600 sq ft in size and features a 3.4 metre floor to ceiling height. Home buyers may opt to include a platform to accommodate a bed.

Source: PropertyGuru – 10 May 2012

Wing Tai’s Q1 profit down 74%

Real estate company Wing Tai Holdings on Tuesday reported net profit of S$42.3 million in the third quarter, down 74 per cent from the corresponding period a year ago as revenue fell 69 per cent to S$128.1 million as a result of lower contributions from development properties.

The company remained cautious over the outlook for the property market.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority’s residential property price index fell 0.1 per cent in the first quarter of 2012, compared with the 0.2 per cent increase in the previous quarter. This was the first quarterly fall in prices since the second quarter of 2009, following nine consecutive quarters of declining price increases, Wing Tai noted.

It said that “with the imposition of the additional buyer’s stamp duty in December 2011, the luxury and high-end property market appears to be consolidating. The group will continue to keep a close watch on the property market.”

Source Today 8 may 2012