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People think that, when a new condo is launched, all we property site writers can afford to pay for a new car. In reality, all we can afford is to pay for is attention. That’s why we know all about the top launches – show flat refreshments are the only way we still get to eat lunch. Jokes aside, here’s a list of condo projects in the market worth a closer look (in my humble opinion, of course)
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Clementi Avenue 1
99-year leasehold, approx. $1,250 to $1,320 psf
TOP in 2021
My favourite among new launches this year is The Clement Canopy, which is a frontrunner in smart home technology. Residents can control the lights, air-conditioning, and locks via their mobile devices. Even facility bookings, such as use of the clubhouse, can be done instantaneously with a few taps of the phone.
Other highlights are the meticulously landscaped gardens (hence the “canopy” in the name), and the giant balconies. The pools are quite interesting – in the manner of developments like Costa del Sol in the east, the developers elected to have themed swimming pools (e.g. tropical islands), not just the usual Olympic size standard pools.
The balconies are characterised by floor to ceiling openings, which provide an unimpeded view. This also makes the units seem more spacious, and allows for a lot of light.
The Clement Canopy is a but further away from the MRT station than we’d like, being over a 15-minute walk for most residents (we don’t know if there’ll be a feeder bus). But Clementi itself is a mature district, and the nearby Clementi Mall is a major retail outlet. NTUC FairPrice, Best Denki, and the Clementi town library are all located within the mall.
You can also walk to the shops in the nearby HDB flats, for most of your day to day needs.
Who should buy this?
If you want to live on the west end of Singapore, this is one of the best value condo projects for its price. It’s surrounded by amenities, traffic congestion is minimal (an advantage of not being too close to Clementi MRT), and the landscaping is on par with most luxury condos.
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241 Pasir Panjang Road
Freehold, approx. $1,380 to $1,750 psf
TOP in 2020
This is one of the more interesting condo projects we’ve seen in a while. Consisting of just 24 units, this condo takes advantage of the recent additional amenities in its vicinity.
It’s a six-minute walk from Haw Par Villa MRT station, and there’s a new mixed-use project (Viva Vista Mall) nearby. This will provide retail options and services that weren’t here previously. Bear in mind though, this is a new mall, so it’s still a little spartan for now.
There’s also a Kopitiam (as in the food court chain) near the Haw Par Villa MRT.
What makes the development stand out though, is the unique feel of each of the 24 units. These are small (ideal for couples of families of up to four), but very cosy and upmarket. The overall effect is like living in a chalet or resort, and major facilities (like the pool and BBQ pits) are on the rooftop. It’s surprising how much the developer managed to pack into a small space.
Who should buy this?
This is an interesting investment buy, as it would capitalise on upcoming developments. It does have interesting rental opportunities as well, and might appeal to expat couples, or small expat families who aren’t used to the urban overcrowding that exists elsewhere.
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15 Yishun Central 1
99-year leasehold, approx. $1,270 to $1,350 psf
TOP in 2020
This condo has the best location, for new condo projects in the North. It’s right next to Yishun MRT station, but more than that, it’s part of the upcoming Northpoint City project.
Slated for a soft launch in the fourth quarter of 2017, Northpoint City is set to be the largest mall in northern Singapore, with over 400 shops and dining spots. This suburban megamall is integrated with North Park Residences, and includes an underground link to the MRT station, and also a nearby bus interchange.
As for the development itself, it banks heavily on an outdoor, active lifestyle theme. It has the most elaborate playground we’ve seen in for some time (the Adventure Cove), and an “energy cove” for yoga, swimming, gym activities, etc. The developer claims there are a total of 88 facilities for residents, most of them built on the themes of fitness and nature.
Who should buy this?
We’re not certain about investment potential, as this development was heavily hyped for its location from day one. The upcoming amenities have already been priced in, if you decide to buy at this point.
But this is a great buy for families in the north, which has traditionally been considered lacking in amenities. It’s conveniently placed in terms of easy access to public transport. Most of all, everything you need is within walking distance.
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2 Sims Drive
99-year leasehold, approx. $1,350 to $1,500 psf
TOP in 2019
You know I’ve always had a soft spot for condo projects in the Geylang / Aljunied area; I’ve always felt it’s one of the most underrated areas in Singapore. Well, Sims Urban Oasis is a development that’s finally bringing some attention to this area.
This condo is in a mature area, which means you won’t have trouble finding coffee shops, retail stores, and day-to-day services within easy reach. It feels as well located as if you were living in a mature HDB estate, where amenities are just an elevator ride away.
Actually, come to think of it, it is effectively akin to living in a mature HDB estate, as this project occupies the space of flats that went en bloc a while ago.
Aljunied MRT station is just about a seven-minutes walk away. By car, Geylang is a just a five to eight minute drive to the Central Business District.
The interior of the units look small, but that’s deceptive. Many of the units have an L-shaped structure, which gives that impression. But the layouts, while unusual, are efficient. Hidden cabinetry is built into many of the walls, for example, and the base of staircases can act as sizeable vertical storage.
Who should buy this?
This area has always been good for landlords. Plenty of prospective tenants will be drawn by the fairly central location, and the abundance of amenities. Also, investment properties in this area have had a long history of being underrated, due to the connotations of Geylang being a Red-Light District (but so were Bugis and Keong Saik a long time ago – things change).
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21 Marina Way
99-years leasehold, approx. $2,500 psf
TOP in 2017
This is our top pick among new luxury condos. Marina One Residences is a true eye-popper, largely thanks to its insane 65,000 square foot Sky Garden. This takes landscaping to a whole new level, with the towering trees and waterfalls blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor space.
Being a mixed used development, there are plenty of high end retail and dining options, as well as services. Cold Storage has an outlet here, and Virgin Active has opened a two-storey gym in the development.
Each residential unit has its own lift and lobby, and the interiors feature full marble flooring and countertops. The large balconies are also a big feature; along with the kitchen islands, the units are spacious enough even for large gatherings. Even the one-room apartments are about 700 square feet, way beyond the definition of a shoebox.
As for the location, do we really need to say much? It’s Marina Bay, one of the most high-end areas in Singapore. Your only issue will be finding retail stores that don’t charge insane prices. We’re talking brands with $90 keychains here, so expect to head elsewhere for day-to-day shopping.
Who should buy this?
If you’re in the market for luxury digs, this is the one to consider. If you’re an owner-occupier, it’s a chance to live in one of the most prestigious areas in the country. If you’re thinking of well-heeled tenants, a unit here is sure to get their attention.
While pricing probably isn’t a worry for anyone looking at these properties, we’d point out you’ll spend more on Orchard Road condo projects of equivalent size and quality.
Want to read more articles like this? Check out our pieces on award winning condos in Singapore and landed property you can buy for under $3 million.
About Ryan Ong
Looking to sell your property?
Whether your HDB apartment is reaching the end of its Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) or your condo has crossed its Seller Stamp Duty (SSD) window, it is always good to know how much you can potentially gain if you were to list and sell your property. Not only that, you’ll also need to know whether your gains would allow you to right-size to the dream home in the neighbourhood you and your family have been eyeing.
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