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News & Views
ISSUE NO. 117 (OCT 2017)
MICA (P) 097/06/2017 The Guru View on Property
MUY-FL10VE MXY-2G20VA MXY-3G28VA MXY-4G28VA
MXY-4G38VA MXY-5G48VA MXY-4C100VA MXY-5C125VA MXY-6C140VA
News & Views
ISSUE NO. 117 (OCT 2017)
MICA (P) 097/06/2017 The Guru View on Property
TOP STORIES
COVER STORY
News
Roundup Paranormal places
P. 3
Eye On
Changi
Photo: Christopher Chitty
The Amber Beacon Tower (pictured) is a popular spot with beachgoers and joggers who frequent
P. 6-7 East Coast Park on weekends. A scenic lookout point, the tower actually has a dark past like so many
places in Singapore. Recently, we took a trip to several haunted sites across the island to get the
Project stories behind why these locations continue to fascinate and scare Singaporeans. Read more
on page 16.
Review
Concerns when buying old houses
Before purchasing older residential units, prospective buyers are advised to
P. 9-10 consider the potential downsides of such properties.
:MÅVML )LQDQFLQJLVVXHV &UDFNVDQGUHSDLUV
Over time, a home’s walls and noors
and corroded plumbing,
Living For properties with shorter remaining
may suffer from cracks, but among
which can cause mres and water
leases, buyers may need to fork out leaks respectively. Hence, it’s
the most serious issues are damages
more money from their own pocket as advisable to check for these
to the foundation and support beams.
banks may provide a lower mortgage problems and get a quote on how
much it would cost to update these
quantum or loan-to-value. You are Given that the cost of repairing such
important structures can cost tens features and ensure they conform
also not allowed to use your Central
of thousands of dollars or more, with existing safety regulations.
Provident Fund (CPF) savings when
it’s advisable to check for these
buying )%B nats and private homes
P. 24-25 damages before committing to buy 3HVWSUREOHPV
with a tenure of less than 30 years.
a property. Preferably, engage an An old house may have unwanted
expert or an engineer. If you still want guests like rats and termites. The
To be able to use it, the buyer’s age to purchase despite the existence of
Like What former is a health hazard, while the
plus the remaining lease should be such defects, consider negotiating
You’re Reading? for a lower price to offset the
latter destroys furniture and wooden
equal to at least 80 years. Also, the structures of a property. Before
repair costs.
maximum amount that can be used signing the purchase agreement,
Get a subscription from the Ordinary Account is capped 2XWGDWHGIHDWXUHV check for the tell-tale signs of pests.
that suits your needs!
based on the buyer’s age and the Properties built many years ago may If the infestation is serious, you will
News-and-Views.PropertyGuru.com.sg
property’s remaining tenure. come with obsolete electrical wiring need to hire an exterminator.
02 PROPERTYGURU
NEWS & VIEWS
THE TEAM Q(',725·6127(
QEDITORIAL
Romesh Navaratnarajah
Senior Editor
romesh@propertyguru.com.sg Supernatural Singapore
Editorial Contributors I’ve never been a superstitious these places, especially the Old Changi setting for many local ghost stories.
Angelica Chong person, so when I started doing research Hospital and Pasir Ris Tower. And with Halloween just around the
Chang Hui Chew about haunted locations in Singapore for corner, we check out some edgy interior
Christopher Chitty While I couldn’t see anything, I did
this issue’s cover story, I was sceptical designs that will make your living spaces
Joanne Poh get an eerie feeling that we were being
Justin Koh at mrst. But my opinion changed when stand out, but not in a creepy way.
watched. Several people also shared
Michelle Yee a small group of us visited some of
their ghostly experiences with us and we
Mindy Chong If you have questions or
Team Joey Yap even got to sit down with a paranormal
investigator who offered his advice on comments, email News-and-Views@
QADVERTISING what to do if your house is haunted. PropertyGuru.com.sg
Belinda Koh If you are worried about buying a
belinda@propertyguru.com.sg property and mnding out later that it is Correction
next to a crematorium, perhaps our
QPUBLISHING Issue 116 of PropertyGuru News
in-depth Project Reviews of new launches
and Views spelled the name Tuan Sing
on the PropertyGuru portal can help.
Romesh Navaratnarajah Holdings wrongly. We would also like
You wouldn’t want to be hit by an
romesh@propertyguru.com.sg to clarify that the developer’s Kandis
unwanted surprise!
QEVENTS Romesh Residence project will launch by the
Navaratnarajah Also in this issue, we explore the end of this year. We apologise for any
Mandy Neo Senior Editor neighbourhood of Changi, a popular inconvenience caused.
mandy@propertyguru.com.sg
QMARKETING
Sandy Goh Powered by Asia’s leading online property group, we bring to property seekers, investors and property enthusiasts alike, the Guru
sandy@propertyguru.com.sg
View on the property market in Singapore, the region and beyond. The insightful articles, in-depth analyses and
Esther Toh intriguing commentaries from industry gurus will be delivered across multiple platforms including online, mobile and print, to
esther@propertyguru.com.sg help them stay abreast of the market and make better property decisions today. PropertyGuru News and Views is
distributed on a complimentary basis at selected airline lounges, banks, lifestyle cafés, private medical centres, hotels and
Chang Hui Chew
chang@propertyguru.com.sg service apartments. You may view the full list of our locations at News-and-Views.PropertyGuru.com.sg
QCUSTOMER CARE
Sarah Tan
custcare@propertyguru.com.sg FIRST FACTS
QMANAGEMENT
Hari Krishnan
Top 5 condominiums for sale
Chief Executive Ofmcer
Lewis Ng
Chief Business Ofmcer
MOST SEARCHED PROPERTIES
PropertyGuru Pte Ltd GEM RESIDENCES
TripleOne Somerset Developers: Gamuda Land, Evia Real Estate and Maxdin
111 Somerset Road #08-20/28
5 KINGSFORD WATERBAY
Tenure: 99-year leasehold Developer: Kingsford Development
Singapore 238164 Location: D12, close to Braddell MRT 1
Tenure: 99-year leasehold
Tel: 6238 5971 Location: D19, close to Hougang MRT
Fax: 6534 4678
www.propertyguru.com.sg
MICA (P) 097/06/2017
Print: Times Printers Pte Ltd
Design: Times Printers Pte Ltd
Distributor: Region Periodicals
Distributor Pte Ltd
All content published in PropertyGuru
News & Views is protected under
copyright laws. No content should be
reproduced either in part or whole
without express written permission from
PropertyGuru Group. For licensing and SOPHIA HILLS
syndication enquiries, please email 2 Developer: Hoi Hup Sunway
chang@propertyguru.com.sg. Currency Tenure: 99-year leasehold
conversions are provided for indicative Location: D9, close to Dhoby Ghaut MRT
purposes only. Every precaution has been
taken to ensure all information is accurate.
MARTIN MODERN
However, the publisher, its employees or
4 Developer: GuocoLand
agents accept no responsibility or liability
Tenure: 99-year leasehold THE INTERLACE
for direct, indirect or consequential losses
Location: D9, close to future Great World MRT 3 Developer: CapitaLand
or damages resulting from the use of any
Tenure: 99-year leasehold
information contained herein.
Location: D4, close to Labrador Park MRT
Based on pages viewed between 1 – 31 August 2017 on PropertyGuru.com.sg
PROPERTYGURU 03
NEWS & VIEWS
QNEWS ROUNDUP
Our top Singapore property stories.
Wong urges real estate With the theme Valuation – Real
industry to embrace digital Estate and Beyond, the two-day
innovation event saw speakers presenting
papers on key topics including
National Development Minister valuation of green and smart
Lawrence Wong recently urged
buildings and new accounting
valuers in Asean countries,
standards on valuation.
including stakeholders in the real
estate industry, to embrace digital
innovations, reported the “Increasingly, valuation of non-
Straits Times. tangible assets such as intellectual
property, service contracts, and
Unlike the media distribution and proprietary data, are also
Morgan Stanley: Home prices his earlier forecast, Ng has provided travel industries, digital innovation becoming more important when
a timeline of the innexion point, stating has not had much impact on the valuing businesses.”
to rise by 8% in 2018
that property prices will rise in Q3 retail sector. Nonetheless, things are
Morgan Stanley recently released 2017 instead of early-2018 as he had beginning to change, noted Wong.
This is partly driven by digital
the most bullish forecast for the previously expected.
innovation as well as the continued
Singapore housing market, expecting He pointed to the Canada
His optimistic outlook for the market growth of the services sector, which
private home prices to increase by two Mortgage and Housing Corporation,
percent this year, before rising again is partly precipitated by a slew of en which leveraged on its property makes up over 50 percent of many
by another eight percent next year, bloc deals that began entering the information database to develop an Asean countries’ gross domestic
reported the Business Times. market in May 2017. With seven en bloc automated risk assessment system. product, explained Wong.
sale projects already awarded, about
This compares with DBS’s forecast 1,500 homeowners are expected to be
“The real estate industry, including Established in 1981, the Asean
of a two percent fall in 2017 and displaced, each of whom is about
the valuation sector, must adapt to Valuers Association has five
three percent increase in 2018 and $1.8 million wealthier.
change, and transform in the face of founding members – Singapore,
another three percent in 2019. OCBC
digital innovation,” said Wong at the
Investment Research, on the other “With leverage, this adds up to Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and
$13 billion of potential capital innows launch of this year’s Asean Valuers
hand, only expects a bottoming out of the Philippines.
that could mnd their way back into the Association Congress.
prices in 2018, with prices falling mve
percent this year. property market, more than the entire
“There are also new opportunities Over 250 delegates from Asean
value of developer sales in 2016. More
In April, Morgan Stanley analyst en bloc deals could follow, with 50-60 for valuers in other melds such countries and counties such as Fiji,
Wilson Ng even predicted property more currently under discussion,” as business and intellectual China and South Korea attended the
prices to double by 2030. Maintaining he said. property valuation.” 20th edition of the Congress.
QEVENT NEWS
Optimistic outlook for Japanese real estate
Attendees were given an overview of upcoming infrastructure developments in Japan, as well as updates on property regu-
lations and taxation.
By Mindy Chong
Held for the mrst time on 9 and 10 For other secondary cities, rental
September at The St. Regis Singapore, growth is between one to four percent.
PropertyGuru’s Japan Real Estate With low interest rates, yields are likely
Market Outlook attracted more than 360 to stabilise at four percent.”
local and overseas investors. Organised
in partnership with Japanese developer She added that Japan has been
Dualtap, highlights included insights preparing to host various events such
into Japan’s property market for 2018 as the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, 2019
and an overview of real estate laws and Rugby World Cup, World Masters
Game Kansai 2021, and Japan’s mrst
tax regulations.
integrated casino resort. Factors such
as low unemployment rate, increased
Sigrid Zialcita, managing director
jobs creation and expanding wages
and head of Asia Pacimc research at "MBSHFDSPXEPGQPUFOUJBMJOWFTUPSTUVSOFEVQUPmOEPVUNPSFBCPVU+BQBOTSFBMFTUBUF
have led to economic growth.
Cushman Wakemeld said: “Tokyo market from industry experts.
is the largest metropolitan area in the
Junko Ogushi, senior partner from
world with 37 million people within interact with the developer and industry UENO VASTO VARDE XEBEC NIPPORI II
Atsumi & Sakai, Japan presented on
7,000 sq km of land area. Between experts,” she said. residential project.
real estate law and tax regulations in
2010 and 2014, residential properties owning property in Japan. Watch the video on the exclusive
Separately, Cijay Tew, associate
in Tokyo have shown a capital show here:
branch district director from PropNex
appreciation of 25 percent. “PropertyGuru provides an bit.do/jpssept2017videos.
Realty, shared his knowledge on
opportunity for investors to know what property monetisation methods for For more information on upcoming
“Rental growth rose by seven is happening in Japan, hence making it local and overseas properties. The events, go to:
percent in Tokyo in the past two years. a good platform for investors to directly exclusive show showcased the www.pgevents.propertyguru.com.sg/
04 PROPERTYGURU
NEWS & VIEWS
Graveyard appreciation
Before Bidadari, there was Bishan. The small HDB estate has seen strong capital appreciation
over the years. Singaporeans are hoping that the upcoming estate of Bidadari, with a similar
PQ[\WZaIVLKQ\aNZQVOMTWKI\QWV_QTTZMIXÅVIVKQITJMVMÅ\[NWZQ\[ZM[QLMV\[QV\PMN]\]ZM
By Chang Hui Chew
Figure 1 highlights the movement
of property prices and transactions
in Bishan.
Over the period of analysis,
quarterly median prices for non-
landed private properties have
nuctuated from around 1,100 psf, to
just under 1,00 psf. These relatively
large movements in prices as well
as volumes are driven by new
launches in the area. For instance, Q4
01 saw prices hit 1,9 psf due
to the launch of the Moshe Safdie-
designed Sky Habitat, close to Bishan
MRT station.
Each subsequent spike in price or
volumes were due to new launches
View of Bishan Park at sunrise.
in the area. Q4 01 saw a rise in
volumes due to the sale of units at
Those of us who grew up in the Road shopping belt needed to be View, we examine the property market
Thomson Impressions at Lorong
1980s might remember the ghost put to more productive uses than a in this former cemetery.
Puntong, while transactions in Q4
stories of the era, of how on the memorial for those who have passed
2013 were driven by the sales of Sky
newly built North-South line, one before. As such, the graves were The private property
might see ethereal mgures on the exhumed from Bishan in the early market in Bishan Vue and Thomson Three.
train as it passed through Bishan 1980s, and construction for Bishan
late in the night. Before Singapore’s New Town commenced soon after. As part of the city fringe, Bishan’s Private property in Singapore
independence, Bishan was already a private residential market has seen a however, is a long-term game. In the
home for those who passed before, Today, Bishan has become a number of popular projects in recent
short to medium terms, prices are
a cemetery for the Cantonese and popular mature estate, with red years. While there are a small number
likely to see nuctuation refer to
Hakka communities of Singapore. brick faÎade H%B nats, beautiful of landed homes in the area, the
private property market in the district Figure 2) as the property cycle waxes
condominiums, a bustling mall and
But an area in the city fringe popular primary and secondary is led by the non-landed private and wanes, in the long term, prices
with easy access to the Orchard schools. In this edition of the Guru condominium sector. will see decent appreciation.
Figure 1 : Non-landed residential price and transaction volumes in Bishan Figure 2 : Long term non-landed private property prices in Bishan
1800
800
1600
700
1400
600
Transaction volume
1200
500
1000
400
800
300
600
200
400
100
200
0
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 0
Q1 2000
Q3 2000
Q1 2001
Q3 2001
Q1 2002
Q3 2002
Q1 2003
Q3 2003
Q1 2004
Q3 2004
Q1 2005
Q3 2005
Q1 2006
Q3 2006
Q1 2007
Q3 2007
Q1 2008
Q3 2008
Q1 2009
Q3 2009
Q1 2010
Q3 2010
Q1 2011
Q3 2011
Q1 2012
Q3 2012
Q1 2013
Q3 2013
Q1 2014
Q3 2014
Q1 2015
Q3 2015
Q1 2016
Q3 2016
Q1 2017
2013 2013 2013 2013 2014 2014 2014 2014 2015 2015 2015 2015 2016 2016 2016 2016 2017 2017
Transaction volume Median $PSF
Source: URA, PropertyGuru Analytics Source: URA, PropertyGuru Analytics
PROPERTYGURU 05
NEWS & VIEWS
Figure 3 : Rental transactions and prices in Bishan Figure 4 : HDB transaction prices and volumes
500 3.5
140 580
450
3
400 120 560
350 2.5
Transaction volumes
100
Transaction volume
Median $PSF PM
540
300
Median $PSF
2 80
250 520
1.5 60
200
500
150 1 40
100 480
0.5 20
50
0 460
0 0 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 2013 2013 2013 2013 2014 2014 2014 2014 2015 2015 2015 2015 2016 2016 2016 2016 2017 2017
2013 2013 2013 2013 2014 2014 2014 2014 2015 2015 2015 2015 2016 2016 2016 2016 2017 2017
Transaction volume Median $PSF
Transaction Volumes Median $PSF/PM
Source: URA, PropertyGuru Analytics Source: HDB, PropertyGuru Analytics
Condo rentals in Bishan move in the resale market for over a Bidadari the next Bishan buyers take the long-term view. Those
million. Earlier this year, a mve-room considering the location need to
It has been a tenant’s market in nat at Natura Loft sold for a record While some might wonder whether be aware, especially in the private
the private condominium sector in $1.18 million, stunning the market. or not Bishan’s history of being a market, that sellers are likely to
recent quarters. former graveyard is a reason behind “future-price” their properties, rather
While the private property market its property market’s success, it than peg it to current market rates.
Figure 3 highlights the rental in Bishan has been affected by the has far more tangible benemts that
performance in Bishan, with volumes headwinds in the property market in have led to strong price appreciation That ebullience is already seen in
on a steady uptick since Q2 2016. the past few years, the HDB resale over the years. Nearby Bidadari the aggressive bids for the mrst site
Unfortunately for landlords however, market in this mature estate has been is also a former cemetery that has in Bidadari sold in the Government
rental prices have been trending relatively stable. had its graves exhumed, with the Land Sales programme. The top bid
downwards, with median rents hitting state making exciting plans for out of 12 was tendered by SPH and
$2.80 psf per month in the second Figure 4 indicates that between the upcoming estate. Given this, a Kajima Corporation at $1.132 billion,
quarter of this year. This is consistent 2013 and 2014, Bishan, a relatively question on many Singaporeans’
or about $1,181 psf per plot ratio. This
with rental performance in the Rest of small estate, saw an average of 72 minds is if the housing market in this
suggests a breakeven price of around
Central Region thus far. HDB resale transactions per quarter. former cemetery do as well in the
$1,500 to $1,600 psf, and a likely
Since then, between 2015 to the long term as its older counterpart?
launch price of around $1,800 psf.
Weakened rental demand has second quarter of 2017, we’ve
compressed gross annual yields to seen an average of 93 transactions Some of the key attractions
In comparison, the Poiz
2.9 percent in Q2 2017, below the 3.4 that Bishan enjoys have also been
per quarter. Residences in neighbouring Potong
percent the market hit in Q1 2013. planned for Bidadari.
Pasir saw a median transaction
After costs of ownership are added
Despite a trough in HDB median price of $1,372 psf in the month
in, yields are likely to be negative. For instance, extensive greenery
resale prices in 2014, prices have of August, according to developer
and even a lake have been
trended upwards since then, beating reported mgures from the Urban
Given that rents are lacklustre at planned for the upcoming estate. A
the overall market, with the Housing Redevelopment Authority.
the moment, landlords should look development integrating the MRT
Board’s Resale Price Index staying
to tenanting units and offsetting any station, a retail mall and a private
stable since Q3 2015. In the public housing market,
mortgage payments, rather than condominium is also in the works at
holding out for higher yields. Woodleigh. On the North East MRT Singaporeans have eschewed
The reason for Bishan’s HDB
line, Bidadari is also a short ride to superstition, oversubscribing for
market’s continued performance is
Before Duxton Dhoby Ghaut, providing convenient units launched by the state in recent
due to a number of factors. It’s a
access to central Singapore as well. Build-to-Order (BTO) exercises. For
relatively small geographical area,
Before the HDB units at Pinnacle@ instance, In February’s BTO exercise,
located in the city fringe and minutes
Duxton started trading at above a While Bidadari looks primed for 4,018 buyers applied for the 800
away by public transport from the
million dollars, Bishan already made future growth, it is important that four-room units on offer.
Orchard Road shopping belt. A
headlines for selling billion dollar HDB
popular suburban mall, Junction 8,
maisonettes. Since 2012, there were
serves the residents of the area, and t Bishan’s property market has seen strong long-term
20 units in Bishan that sold
residents are in proximity to several capital appreciation in both the private and housing
over the psychological mark of a
green spaces, including Bishan Park sectors
million dollars.
and Macritchie Reservoir. t Key attractions include its city fringe location,
Most of the units that sold above popular suburban malls, schools and its close
PropertyGuru also understands proximity to parks and greenery
a million dollars were maisonette
units along Bishan Street 13, a short that several of the million dollar units t Bidadari has been planned with similar benemts, and
distance from the interchange and being traded in Bishan were bought is likely to see strong long term capital appreciation
by those cashing out of their private as well
MRT station. Since the end of 2016,
we’ve also seen units constructed properties, and were willing to pay t However, aggressive bids and prices set with future
under the Design Build and Sell top dollar for preferred locations appreciation in mind could diminish future returns
Scheme (DBSS) at Natura Loft and units.
06 PROPERTYGURU
NEWS & VIEWS
QEYE ON CHANGI
Take to the skies
Changi is probably best known for its award-winning airport, but it has so much more to offer, including remnants of a
rich colonial past, plenty of food options and a rustic beach.
By Joanne Poh
View of the boardwalk along Changi Beach.
“Existing parks like
Mention Changi, and thoughts Battery Hill, Fairy Point Hill and Temple The famous Singapore Changi
immediately turn to the thrill of a Hill towered. Airport was built on the site of
holiday for which one inevitably Changi Air Base, taking over from the
departs from Changi Airport. Visitors As late as 1927, less than a century previous international airport at Paya
to the area are often enchanted by
the balmy serenity of Changi Beach,
ago, the area was sparsely populated
with a tiny village, several bungalows,
Lebar, which was in turn converted Changi Beach Park
to a military air base. Extensive land
fringed with palm trees. a temple, sago and coconut
plantations and some very basic
reclamation works were undertaken will be refreshed
But to the residents of Changi, this
area on the eastern end of Singapore,
amenities such as a police station
and hotel.
beginning in 1975 to accommodate
the airport, which has since expanded with new pavilions,
bordered by Tampines and Pasir Ris,
is as full of promise as it is idyllic. After 1927, Changi was developed
into one of the world’s biggest and
best airports. paths, shelters
With its stunning sea views, it is
easy to forget that Changi is also a
into a military base, with remnants of
this period in the area’s colonial past For teenagers and thrill-seekers
and playgrounds.
major aviation hub and has earned
the moniker of the Central Business
still standing today. However, when the
Japanese landed during World War II,
in Singapore, Changi also has an
unsettling link to the supernatural world.
On top of this,
District of the East. they bypassed the eastern border of
Singapore altogether, landing instead The grounds of the former Changi
new attractions
A dark past on the west coast. Hospital are often explored in the dead
of night by intrepid ghost-hunters and
and a refreshed
The name Changi was in use as
early as the beginning of the 19th
Today, many stately colonial buildings
such as the old Command HQ and
urban explorers, and has even inspired
a low-budget mlm. The abandoned
Downtown East will
century, although the origins of the
word are still open to debate. Some
the bungalows at Aloha Changi are a
testament to Changi’s past.
hospital’s claim to fame comes from attract families and
its use during the Second World War
believe the name Changi was derived
from the Changal tree, which used to Changi’s status as an aviation hub
as a prison camp and a hospital for friends who wish to
Japanese soldiers.
grow in the area. Others attribute it to
the changi ular, a variety of shrub, or
was born in the wartime years, when
scores of prisoners of war were forced
enjoy leisure
A scenic place to work
time together.
”
the chengal pasir, a type of tree. to build an airstrip in the area by the
Japanese occupiers. The airstrip was
The area was, in the early 20th later taken over by the British Royal Despite any lingering eeriness that
century, swathed in mangrove Air Force after the war, and mnally can be traced to its wartime past, the
swamps and thick forest, above which passed on to the Singapore Air Force Changi of today is more business-like
– Edmund Ee,
the hills that were later christened in the 1970s. than ghostly. PropNex agent
PROPERTYGURU 07
NEWS & VIEWS
Thanks to Changi Business Park, and business travellers, but also
which was opened in 1997, the area Singaporeans whose idea of a fun
has been transformed into an aviation, weekend is slipping down the world’s
business and technology hub. tallest airport slide, shopping and
dining at the airport’s dizzying array of
Some distance from the hustle and options, and checking out planes on
bustle of Changi Business Park lies the tarmac at the airport’s Terminal 1
Changi Village, which is very popular Viewing Gallery.
with residents thanks to its quietness
and proximity to the sea and Changi But avid plane spotters know that
Beach Park. it’s not at the airport, but at Changi
Beach Park where the best views of
Melvin Loh, a lawyer living in the planes taking off and landing can be
area, describes Changi as “nice and enjoyed. Plane-spotting isn’t the only
quiet” and, despite being on the reason to visit Changi Beach, which
eastern end of Singapore, “accessible has maintained a rustic atmosphere
to the city centre”. He says, “The area and offers an idyllic backdrop for a
Artist’s Impression
near Flora Road and Flora Drive (off barbecue or a spot of camping.
Upper Changi Road North) is next to Grandeur Park Residences is located near Tanah Merah MRT station.
the expressway entrance and exit, The Changi Point Coastal
which makes getting to town easy.” Walk, a 2.2 km long boardwalk, is PropNex property agent The units contain smart home
another scenic experience boasting
Edmund Ee identimes Grandeur features such as Wi-Fi cameras with
His favourite spots include The unparalleled views of the waterfront.
Park Residences as a noteworthy
Coastal Settlement on Netheravon It also offers easy access to the ferry motion detection capabilities and
residential development in the area.
Road, a restaurant-cafe-bar swathed terminal from which bumboats depart night vision surveillance which enable
in greenery, and Chock Full of Beans, for Pulau Ubin.
a trendy cafe with a reputation for The 99-year leasehold homeowners to monitor their property
cutesy latte art. A dazzling future condominium by CEL Development on the go. Residents can also control
is located a stone’s throw from Tanah
lighting, window and door sensors and
For many visitors to the Changi A few new developments have Merah MRT station and is expected
area, the main draw is Changi Airport, graced Changi’s shores in the last to receive its temporary occupation energy management using their unit’s
which attracts not just holiday makers few years. permit at the end of 2021. smart home system.
08 PROPERTYGURU
NEWS & VIEWS
Residents have a lot more to to Terminals 1 to 3 and feature a range
Figure 1: Non-landed private property sale median $PSF in District 17 of retail, dining, leisure and hotel
look forward to in the coming years.
2600 Ee anticipates better parks and businesses when it opens in late 2018.
2200
sports and recreational facilities in
Changi’s future. Ee says, “The opening of Project
1800 Jewel and Terminal 4 at Changi Airport
Median $PSF
1400 “Existing parks like Changi will put Singapore in the spotlight as
Beach Park will be refreshed with having the world’s best airport and
1000
new pavilions, paths, shelters and attract new tourism and hospitality
600 playgrounds. On top of this, new and employment opportunities.”
attractions and a refreshed Downtown
200
East will attract families and friends
Q1 2012
Q4 2012
Q3 2013
2012
Q4 2012
2013
Q3 2013
Q2 2013
Q3 2013
2014
Q2 2013
2014
Q1 2014
Q2 2014
Q1 2014
2015
Q4 2015
2014
Q1 2015
Q4 2015
Q3 2016
2015
Q4 2015
2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Q3 2016
2017
Q2 2016
2017
Q1 2017
Q2 2017
Q3 2017
who wish to enjoy leisure time Did you know?
Q3
Q2
Q1
Q2
Q1
Q4
Q1
Q4
Q3
Q4
Q3
Q2
Q3
Q2
Q1
Q2
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together,” he says.
Source: URA, PropertyGuru Analytics Changi Airport’s new Terminal 4 was
On the commercial front, Ee is built on the site of the previous Budget
just as optimistic. He says, “Changi Terminal, and is an impressive seven
Business Park will continue its times the size of the latter.
Figure 2: Non-landed private property rental median $PSF in District 17
expansion as a vibrant business
3.5
3.5 park and hub for employment. The
Jewel at Changi Airport will contain
Singapore University of Technology
the world’s tallest indoor waterfall,
and Design (SUTD) will offer
3
taking over from the current record
potential tie-ups and collaborations
Median $PSF / PM
Median $PSF
with businesses in the park, holder at Gardens by the Bay’s
2.5
2.5 while providing cutting-edge Cloud Forest.
educational opportunities.”
2
Changi Beach looks beautiful by day,
But the most exciting development
but it is also the spot where many
in Changi is surely the opening of
1.5 Chinese and Japanese were executed
1.5
Q1
Q3 Q2Q4 Q3Q1 Q4Q2 Q1Q3 Q2Q4 Q3Q1 Q4Q2 Q1Q3 Q2Q4 Q3Q1 Q4Q2 Q1Q3 Q2Q4 Q3Q1 Q4Q2 Q1Q3 Q2Q4 Q3Q1 Q4Q2 Q1Q3 Q2 Q3
Changi Airport’s newly-opened
2012 2012 2012
2013 2012
2013 2013 2013 2013
2014 2013
2014 2014 2014 2014
2015 2014
2015 2015 2015 2015
2016 2015
2016 2016 2016 2016
2017 2016
2017 2017 2017 2017
Terminal 4 and Project Jewel, a during and after the Second World War.
Source: URA, PropertyGuru Analytics mixed-use complex that will connectPROPERTYGURU 09
NEWS & VIEWS
QPROJECT REVIEW
Kandis Residence
With an official launch pending, Kandis Residence is earning plenty of acclaim for its tranquil and beautiful
surroundings. However, the new residential development also scores top marks for being accessible, with a bus stop
and several eateries nearby.
By Christopher Chitty
smaller apartments. While an open
kitchen looks modern, it creates
some problems.
The main issue is the cooking
smells and smoke that wafts into
the living room and other areas of
the house, and makes the walls and
furniture greasy.
Having an enclosed kitchen is
therefore a useful addition to the unit.
With no yard space included, it does
raise the question of where to dry the
clothes – but more on that later.
With a spacious design, the
smaller unit won’t be affected by an
enclosed kitchen as the high noor-to-
ceiling height makes the unit look
more expansive.
High ceilings also benemt the
bedrooms because it allows the
homeowners to install furniture
vertically, such as platform decks or
double-decker beds for the children.
For the master bedroom, it offers
A scale model of Kandis Residence. (Photos: Christopher Chitty) owners more space to install grand
lighting mxtures like a chandelier or
other hanging lights to give the space
Location analysis For those already living in the 2BR (797 sq ft) more character.
area, Kandis Residence is a fantastic
At the point where Admiralty Road property to consider when upgrading. It is uncommon to see a project Another unique feature can be
intersects with Sembawang Road, the The location is tranquil and can be in Singapore be anything other than found in the common bathroom.
latter leads into smaller lanes nanked standard, but the two-bedroom unit The layout is somewhat squarish with
considered exclusive. The presence of
by landed homes, Sembawang Park low and high shelves and cabinets for
nearby conveniences is a bonus. at Kandis Residence stands out for
and the Straits of Johor. storage. The wet and dry areas are
its four-metre high ceilings and
separated by a sliding glass door.
Soon, Canberra MRT station, enclosed kitchen.
Marketed as a “home in nature”, This is also where the washer and dryer
Canberra Plaza and Sembawang can be found.
Kandis Residence benemts greatly
Sports and Community Hub will bring Having an enclosed kitchen offers
from the surrounding greenery and a
more vibrancy and connectivity to several benemts for the homeowners, So, to answer the question of where
partial view of the sea for some high
noor units. But its best attribute is its the area. especially for those living in to dry the clothes, look no further than
proximity to a small stretch of shops
and eateries which includes the famous Project analysis
1036 Live Seafood restaurant.
Kandis Residence is a 130-unit
Many people would consider this project spread across three seven-
part of Singapore as being rather storey blocks and one three-storey
secluded. Though not entirely wrong in block. There are only two- and three-
their assessment, Kandis Residence’s
bedroom units available. The fewer unit
location is still good as it is within
types at the 99-year leasehold project
walking distance to nearby amenities
translates to more value for buyers.
and there are two bus stops on either
side of the road. SMRT bus service 882
will bring residents to Sun Plaza where Developer Tuan Sing’s eye for detail
there are F&B outlets, supermarkets is evident at the project’s shownat,
and retail shops. The mall is located with its diverse and impressive two-
next to the Sembawang MRT station and three-bedroom study units
and bus interchange. being showcased. A small stretch of shops and eateries can be found nearby.10 PROPERTYGURU
NEWS & VIEWS
The rooms come with high ceilings. There is hidden storage space for the washing machine in the bathroom.
the bathroom. The washer and dryer for someone to do the laundry and For a three-bedroom study unit and exclusive environment that is
when stacked, mt into a special space cooking simultaneously. The kitchen at Kandis Link, the asking price seems the project’s top attraction. Although
built into the bathroom, hidden by a appliances are Bosch-branded. very competitive. Also, since the it doesn’t face the sea, some lucky
tinted sliding door. On the other side project only has 130 units, it is likely buyers of high noor units may get views
is the shower area, a spacious section Since there is a yard, the washer that the apartments will sell out quickly. of the Straits of Johor.
that makes the most of the 54 sq ft and dryer is installed there instead
bathroom. This particular layout is a of in the bathroom. There is also a Meanwhile, the median psf rental In addition, the units are one of the
good model to follow as it makes the study room in this unit which can be price for District 27 is $2.38. The better options available in the market.
most of a small space. converted into another bedroom or a average monthly rent for the three- High ceilings, enclosed kitchens, lavish
large library. bedder works out to $2,900 after balconies and elegant layouts make for
The bathroom design is composed factoring in a 20 percent new-build an excellent choice.
of clean, straight lines that mrmly The common bedrooms can mt premium. As such, the average rental
establish where each component is. a queen-size bed, while the master yield is 2.7 percent, which is relatively However, it is tough to do a price
There’s also a lot more shelf space bedroom can easily hold a king-size good for an area comprising mainly calculation until the project launches.
to place perfume bottles and other bed with additional space. freehold landed houses. Still, prospective buyers who like the
toiletries. The light grey colour scheme area will not go wrong if they decide to
gives the bathroom an elegant, hotel- Comparatively, the three-bedroom Summary make a purchase because the project
like feel. unit may not seem as unique as the offers well-designed and spacious
two-bedder as it doesn’t have the For those living outside District 27, units that are great for young couples
3BR (1,023 sq ft) enclosed kitchen and washer/dryer Kandis Residence may be considered or a growing family. Having said that,
storage space, but it is still impressive a bit far. However, the 99-year it is important to note that there are
The high ceiling with a living and with its large size and good layout. leasehold project is still accessible via several plots of land next to Kandis
dining room of 334 sq ft, excluding the In fact, it’s suitable for a family of mve a bus service that runs along Kandis Residence. In time to come, these sites
86 sq ft balcony space, offers plenty of (if the study room is converted into Link and brings residents to Sun Plaza will be developed further, but when that
space for the furniture. a bedroom). and Sembawang MRT station. In the will be hasn’t been determined.
near future, both the Canberra MRT
The room is rectangular and is Price analysis station and Canberra Plaza will be Regardless, this is a minor
matched by an enclosed kitchen that accessible too. Several shops and inconvenience to bear for a fantastic
is slightly smaller, but still spacious. Kandis Residence is due to be eateries are also a short walk away home. Kandis Residence is certainly
The yard space is in the kitchen and launched soon, but for now, the indicative from Kandis Residence. one of the better projects in recent
unlike other developments where it is price is approximately $1,250 psf. The years, and with only 130 units, it
situated in a corner, this one is parallel average price of the 1,023 sq ft unit is But such conveniences aren’t the won’t be long before all the units are
with the cooking area, making it easy expected to be about $1.3 million. main draw. Ironically, it is the tranquil snapped up.
5IFUISFFCFEEFSPGGFSTQMFOUZPGMJWJOHTQBDF 5IFNBTUFSCFESPPNDBOFBTJMZmUBLJOHTJ[FCFEBuying a new home?
Don’t be hit by
an unwanted
surprise.
Read our Project Reviews for all you need
to know about your desired home.
Worried that your sea view will be out-of-view in a
few months? Spooked by the thought of a new
crematorium appearing next door? With Project Reviews,
our refreshingly frank and in-depth analysis of new
projects, you’ll learn everything from location and price
to investment potential and more. To make better
property decisions, get the Guru View.
Make the right move.
PropertyGuru Project Reviews
-OST0ROPERTIESp-OST#HOICESp-OST0REFERRED PROPERTYGURU
NEWS & VIEWS
QINTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT - MALAYSIA
A bright spot for property investors
Despite weak market sentiment, the weakening ringgit, stable rental yields, a slew of infrastructure improvements coupled
with the completion of mega developments continue to attract foreign investors to Malaysia’s property market.
By Michelle Yee
An online news report by the New
Straits Times revealed that the state
recently scored a major deal with
several Japanese corporations valued
at nearly R. billion, which will not only
boost the state’s economy but create
more job opportunities
The report added that the deal
involves prominent players from Japan
investing in the Tanjung Langsat
Industrial Park in Pasir Gudang
To date, numerous foreign
multinational companies ./Cs
have relocated their facilities to Johor
including .icrosoft, which is building
a data centre in Sedanak; Coca-Cola,
too, has moved its previous location in
Tuas, Singapore to Iskandar .alaysia;
and Alibaba has announced plans to
View of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.
set up a logistics hub in Johor, which is
slated to be completed by the end
of 0
According to data from the
.alaysian Industrial Development
Authority .IDA , Johor’s
View of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.
manufacturing sector attracted more
than R.8 billion in total proposed
Despite the present challenging 5,000-unit luxury residential capital investment from January to
September 06 – the highest among
market condition and slowing economy development; 6. Land’s Suasana
FAST FACTS caused by several factors such as Iskandar .alaysia, an integrated
all the states in the country – with the
ratio of domestic to foreign investment
(Malaysia) low crude oil and commodity prices development comprising a 36-storey
at 548 percent
coupled with geo-political issues serviced residence tower, a hotel,
worldwide, those looking for good as well as retail and entertainment
7VW\SH[PVU investment opportunities can still complex; and Shama .edini,
Although there are concerns that
Johor’s property market currently has
30.5 million eYpect to mnd good deals in .alaysia, a serviced apartment complex built an oversupply of residential projects,
namely Johor Bahru, Kuala Lumpur on top of a shopping mall in the property consultancy JLL offered some
and .alacca, eYperts said
;V[HSHYLH mixed-use development of 6.City assurance that this issue will be
.edini Lakeside solved once these factories and
330,803 sq km Although the property market in
ofmces are opened, bringing with them
Johor Bahru has been lacklustre since Local developers are bracing for potential tenants
the beginning of the year, especially
*\YYLUJ` an extended quiet period as potential
with $hinas capital controls on outnow Buying guide
Ringgit buyers and investors are now spoilt for
of funds to overseas investments,
choice with numerous ongoing projects
experts feel that the market will gain “For the state of Johor, there is a
giving generous incentives and
.+7WLYJHWP[H strength upon recovery of the national
rebates /evertheless, we note that the minimum R. million S30,864
US$9,503 (2016) and regional economy purchase price required for foreigners
secondary market for landed properties
below R.600,000 S,58 per unit There is an exemption however in
As such, foreign buyers are .edini, where foreigners can purchase
.+7NYV^[O well-positioned to make a foray into
are still in demand
at any price point, even below R.
5.0 percent Johor Bahru’s property market, where million Foreigners also have to make
property prices are lower than in Why invest in Johor Bahru?
a one-off payment of 0 percent of
neighbouring Singapore, and there are the purchase price for every purchase
-\[\YL[YHUZWVY[ also plenty of choices A booming economy
Otherwise the rules for foreigners are
High Speed Rail between
pretty similar to .alaysians
KL and Singapore Some of the projects that are A slew of infrastructure
available for buyers’ selection include improvements and mega “Property tax rates, maintenance
the famous four-island, integrated developments, coupled with plenty fees, mre insurance, are all charged at
Distance between project Forest City, developed by of foreign direct investments, look the same rates whether the buyer is a
Singapore and KL: Chinese developer Country Garden; set to help Johor Bahru achieve its foreigner or .alaysian &ven banks in
354 km Pengerang Integrated Petroleum goal of becoming the new economic .alaysia are quite open to mnancing
Complex; Senibong Cove – a 84ha, powerhouse in the country from Singaporeans, who can typically
continued on page 14The New Heartbeat of
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Bukit Bintang City Centre (BBCC) is a visionary, state-of-the-art integrated development designed
to complement and enhance the city’s cosmopolitan vibe.
KL Tower KLCC BBCC
Twin Towers
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Own a piece of the spectacular
Come visit us at Malaysia Property Show 2017
30th September & 1st October 2017, 11am - 7pm | The St. Regis Singapore, Level 1U, John Jacob Ballroom4 PROPERTYGURU
NEWS & VIEWS
Continued from page 12
mnance 0 to 80 percent of the property &ddy Wong, managing director
value,” said Ryan Khoo, director at
Alpha .arketing
at /awawi Tie Leung added, “In KL
city centre, the TR9 project looks very
Guide to investing in Malaysia
exciting It is positioned as the new
Malaysia
Abundant investment Central Business District for KL
opportunities in “The project will encompass an Foreign investment restriction Foreign investors can purchase
0DOD\VLD·VFDSLWDO area of 0 acres, with some 0 million freehold and leasehold land priced
sq ft of ofmce space, a two million sq above R. million or R. million
According to experts, those looking ft retail mall and about 3,800 units in some states But some minor
to invest in .alaysia’s bustling capital of residences It will have excellent restrictions remain
city might want to consider entering connectivity, with easy access to
the market now, as prices of luxury highways such as the .aju &xpressway Tax for transaction Goods and Services Tax (GST)
properties are at an all-time low, and the S.ART tunnel as well as an Tax rate is based on the sale price 6%
offering buyers with plenty of “value for .RT station” unless stated separately
money” deals
Charming Malacca Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT)
“Generally, prices of KLCC luxury 5% to 30%
properties on the secondary market
draws investors
Depending on property owner and
have dropped around 0 percent to 5 holding period
Located just 5 hours by car from
percent from two years ago,” said Janet
Singapore, the historic and charming
Chong, team manager at Hartamas Stamp Duty
city of .alacca is fast becoming a
Real &state O6G % to 3%
hotspot for investors, thanks to a slew of
mega developments that are currently
“Units at ViPod Residences
underway Strong tourist arrivals are
@ KLCC used to be sold at an average another plus point for investors – Tax for holding Quit Rent:
of R.,600 psf S53 psf two years revealed a report by Hatten Group, Tax rate is based on rental income Amount varies and depends on the
ago, but recently, I closed a deal there tourist receipts grew by 35 percent unless stated separately category of the land and si[e
at R.,00 psf S385 psf ,” in 05, the highest annual growth
Chong noted since 00 And with the impending Assessment fee
R.4 billion .elaka Gateway project, .aximum 35%
Sharing his thoughts on why .alacca’s popularity as a tourism
investors should look to .alaysia’s destination is set to rise
capital city, &rick Kho, C&O of
Investment loan term Up to 0-year term,
.apleland Properties said, “KLCC According to reports, real estate 85% to 0% LTV ratio
is certainly not affordable but it is values in .alacca have also shot up
full of potential as KL is the capital by more than 400 percent over the
city of .alaysia, a place where past few years, from R.50 psf S84
multinational corporations ./Cs and psf in 008 to R.,00 psf S36 psf Interest rate on commercial Priced against Base Rate which is
big corporations will want to have a in 05, thanks to the above-mentioned lending 365% to 40%
presence Once the economy recovers, reasons, as well as its U/&SCO world
there will be increased demand for heritage status, which was awarded Source $B3& 3esearch Asia 1acimc *nvestment (uide
residential property here in 008
“.ajor infrastructure developments, And experts say that prices city is the completion of several mega bungalows with private marinas, tourist
such as the .RT, Tun Ra[ak &xchange are likely to continue an upward projects, namely Harbour City and eco-parks, theme parks and ports for
TR9 and the future High Speed trend, attributed by upcoming mega SATORI – both developed by the cruise ships
Rail HSR will support the growth of developments and the HSR Singapore &xchange listed, multi-award
these areas by creating more job and The precincts are Gateway
winning Hatten Land
business opportunities “.alacca has seen a steady &ntertainment Precinct, .elaka .arina
increase in land prices over the years Cruise Centre, .elaka Historical
“As the mega projects take place With the HSR having a stop in .alacca, The former, which features a
Walk, Gateway .aritime Arena
gradually, there will be a spillover effect we will see tourism growing at an even 30-storey building resembling a huge
Beacon, Branded Fashion District,
onto the neighbouring areas such as more rapid pace, especially around the ship, reminiscent of .alacca’s history
International Theme Park, .elaka
.ont’Kiara, Damansara Heights and Air Keroh, Krubong, Durian Tunggal as a famous port, will combine three
Cultural Walk, Waterfront .arina
.id Valley” and Gapam areas elements in one development - an Villas Resorts, Gateway Wellness
aquatic-themed shopping mall, a mve- Lifestyle Precinct, .elaka Skyline
Why invest in Kuala Lumpur? “Furthermore, as the house
prices in Seremban have increased star hotel and a 500,000 sq ft water Apartments, Lohas Park Residences
Bright prospects due to completion of tremendously in the past few years, theme park, while the latter, which and &co Isle Resorts
major developments .alacca will be the next “suburb” is the state’s mrst wellness-themed
option for those who work in Klang mixed development, will consist of Once completed in 05, the
“KL city area will continue to be Valley as they can commute via the serviced suites, an 85,50 sq ft retail marina terminal is expected to be
vibrant as major top global hospitality HSR There will be a growing demand the largest private marina in
mall, a 336-room hotel, and more than
brands such as Kempinski, Rit[ Carlton for residential properties in the area Southeast Asia
and this would cause an increase in 50 world-class facilities
Residences and W Hotel will be
entering the KL market There are also property prices down the road,” Datuk
Buying guide
new brands planning to expand their Anthony Adam Cho, branch chairman of The upcoming .alacca Gateway
presence in KL including SO Somtel, the Real &state Housing Developers Project, which will comprise
Association .alaysia R&HDA was As compared to the other .alaysian
Jumeirah and Waldolf Astoria precincts, is also set to attract visitors
quoted as saying in a recent interview cities, restrictions on foreign property
from around the world and boost the
ownership in .alacca are not as
“Besides that, the upcoming state’s economy Developed by KAJ
release of ofmce space and residential Why invest in Malacca? rigid Foreigners only need to make a
Development the master developer minimum investment of R.500,000
developments in the TR9 area will
A slew of projects set to redemne of the project and Powerchina S60,43 , versus R. million
create another boom due to its position the city
as .alaysia’s mnancial district,” shared International Group, some of the S30,864 in KL and Penang’s
&ric Lim, group managing director at Another factor that is set to attract planned facilities include a marina R. million to R. million S30,864
Hartamas Real &state even more tourists to this charming for yachts, luxury condominiums and to S64, 16 PROPERTYGURU
NEWS & VIEWS
COVER STORY
5 most haunted places in Singapore
Singaporeans continue to be fascinated by the spiritual world despite the country’s modernity and rapid urbanisation.
Almost everyone you talk to from schoolchildren to taxi drivers has a ghost story to share. In this issue, we visit five
locations that are believed to be the most haunted in Singapore.
By Romesh Navaratnarajah
The Pasir Ris Tower can be a scary place to be at night. (Photos: Christopher Chitty)
The Ghost Month, which is “As a hotbed for immigration, Singapore deity. I can’t quite recall what was said, should always seek professional help
traditionally an inauspicious time to buy is always open to supernatural just that it was surreal.” and should not attempt to handle the
property or get married, just ended on invasions,” he said. matter themselves.
19 September. The Chinese believe that But you don’t have to go to a remote
ghosts roam freely on the earth during Hanging out with spirits location such as Pulau Ubin to have
“Paranormal investigators are happy
this period, and you may have seen a haunting experience. Homes and
to help and they won’t accept payment,
families making food offerings Chan has over mve years of ofmces can also be haunted. “Common
and burning paper money to appease experience in this meld and a few occurrences such as cold spots, just permission to mlm and document the
the spirits. scary stories to share. But his most missing items and furniture being process,” he said.
memorable experience was the time he moved are tell-tale signs that something
There are many places in Singapore and a group of friends spent the night might be going on,” said Chan. “Let them help identify if you have
with a grisly past, and one reason for on Pulau Ubin with a spirit medium. a haunting and then get their advice
this is due to the atrocities committed by He noted that in more serious cases, on how to proceed.” He added that
the Japanese army during World War II, people can be troubled by nightmares, religious authorities and genuine spirit
Recalling the incident, he said:
said one paranormal investigator who see shadowy mgures and hear voices in mediums can also provide help.
“Our spirit medium was temporarily
wanted to be known only as Mr Chan. their homes.
possessed by Tua Pek Kong (Chinese
deity) who then proceeded to speak to Meanwhile, with Halloween coming
He added that while ghosts tend to Who you gonna call?
be stuck to where they died, spirits and us for a few hours at his temple. soon, the PropertyGuru team decided
other supernatural entities can attach So, what should you do if you to compile a list of the mve most haunted
themselves to people or objects and “I’ve encountered ghosts, but that suspect your house is haunted? places in Singapore based on extensive
therefore “migrate” to other countries. was the mrst time I ever encountered a According to Chan, homeowners research and feedback from the public.PROPERTYGURU 17
NEWS & VIEWS
1 2 3
1. Amber Beacon 2. German Girl Shrine 3. Old Changi 4. Pasir Ris Tower 5. Pulau Tekong
Tower Pulau Ubin Hospital Pasir Ris Park North-Eastern Island
East Coast Park Halton Road, Changi
A small shrine erected in Located within a mangrove Many Singaporeans who
The observation tower is the 1970s at the western side The disused hospital forest, the three-storey bird- have gone through National
believed to be haunted by the of the island reportedly houses is considered to be one of watching tower is sometimes Service have heard lots of
spirit of a young woman who the remains of an unidentimed the most haunted places in stories about paranormal
called the ‘Suicide Tower’. One
was murdered there one night German girl, the daughter of Singapore. Built in the 1930s activities on the island. Used
urban legend is that a boy
in May 1990 after she and her plantation owners who lived to support British troops, the as a military training camp
jumped from the tower after
boyfriend were stabbed by there in the 1910s. Shortly after Japanese army later used for recruits, the most famous
seeing a ghostly mgure. Before
two attackers whilst out on a the First World War broke out, it to house more than tale is about a recruit who
date. Despite his wounds, he the British military detained her he died, he told his friends went missing during a route
50,000 prisoners of war.
managed to stumble away but family, but she escaped. A few that something pushed him. march and was later found
Many of them are believed to
she died. To this day, the case villagers discovered her body There have also reportedly disembowelled. Several
have been tortured there. It
has never been solved as the several days later. been sightings of a pontianak online forums have also
was closed in 1997 and
perpetrators couldn’t (female vampire in Malay). mentioned numerous
is now under tight security
be identimed. Today, she is revered pontianak sightings.
to stop ‘ghost hunters’
by some people who call When Property Guru
from trespassing.
One paranormal investigator her Lady Datuk, and there’s Speaking on condition
recently visited the site during
who visited the tower told even a Barbie doll used to of anonymity, one former
A former national the day, several people
PropertyGuru that he saw a represent her. Gamblers have national serviceman
serviceman, who declined to mentioned that they had heard
shadowy mgure believed to been known to make offerings recounted hearing voices of a
be named, told PropertyGuru the stories. One elderly man
be of the woman, and even to her for good luck. A few little girl in his bunk. He also
that his unit was once made walking his dog said that
communicated with her using years back, a local mlmmaker shared that his platoon mate
an electromagnetic meld meter made a documentary to try to do a conmdent walk through he didn’t believe it, while a
was often airlifted to hospital
(EMF). He claimed she was and uncover her identity. the hospital at night as teenage boy shared that he after becoming violently ill,
receptive and friendly, but More details at: www.frische- punishment. “That was very had been there at night and which he believes was due to
there was a sense of sadness. medien.de/kunden/fgg/ scary,” he said. felt something sinister. spirit possession.
4 5
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