I seldom post articles from other sources, especially those from authors with vested interests. But I think that this one from Forbes Asia (originally from Asia Confidential) is simply too good to be missed. Following The Smart Money In Asia by James Gruber on March 30, 2013 Investors selling property assets Reasons for cashing out Where they’ll put their money What if … [Read more...]
Till ‘tax’ do us part
In Singapore, there was a recent rush for 'decoupling' – transferring ownership of properties previously under joint ownership to one of the owners. The legal transactions allow the exiting parties to be treated as first-time buyers when buying their next property, so that they don't have to pay the 7 percent additional buyer’s stamp duty, as recently introduced by the … [Read more...]
Should you buy near to the new MRT lines?
The government just announced two new MRT lines to be built by 2030. By then, 80 percent of households in Singapore will be a 10-minute walk to any station. For the convenience of residents traveling in the small island, the initiative should be applauded. This is what a comprehensive public transportation system should be like in a modern city like Singapore. Wait, for … [Read more...]
Who are affected by the new property cooling measures? (with graphics)
Someone told me that my last post was quoted at Singapore Business Review. Maybe I should consider having some graphics for my future posts. … [Read more...]
Who are affected by the new property cooling measures?
The objective of the comprehensive package of property cooling measures, according to the government, is "to ensure a stable and sustainable property market". Government intervention can definitely delay the onset of a bubble burst, making the market 'sustainable' for the time being. As for 'stable', I don't think this is what investors/speculators or real users want. … [Read more...]