Comments By A Property Expert
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SMEs are the backbone of business entities in Malaysia, with about 95% active involvement in this field.
- Is ‘Location, Location, Location’ is still an important factor for perfect property search by the investors/buyers in the Klang Valley?
Unfortunately, this is an outdated mantra which I have never applied since I started investing in 2005. Entry price, product and size are far more important than just looking at location. KLCC had one of the best location but it was one of the worst performing property market in Malaysia in the last 10 years.
- What is the current property value appreciation in the market this Q4?
It varies from one area to another. Generally, I’m expecting a minimal to flat growth for mass market and high end properties in the next six months.
- Can a buyer expect more savings from Islamic policy compared to conventional home loans?
Islamic loan features several policies, where some are more expensive than conventional products, while there are some which are similar in nature to conventional product. But Bank Negara and local banks are pushing for greater growth in Islamic lending, so there are certain advantages to taking up Islamic loan (cheaper stamp duty and no lock in period).
- Do you have a healthy work-life balance?
I’m a workaholic that I even get restless during holidays. But this career allows me to spend more time with my family on weekdays as I get most of my work done on weekends.
- Do you recall the latest property book you read?
Can’t remember as I get the latest insight on property from online portals and blogs.
- Do you plan to retire early?
I don’t think I’ll ever retire. I’ve made several investments in the last 12 months due to competitive market environment and availability of good deals, so I’m taking up more commitments. In other words, delayed retirement.
- From your experience, how long does it take to stay at your own property before gaining the value of your purchase?
In most data we’ve studied, seven years seems to yield the best short-term returns in most samples of mass-market properties. For properties, the rules are simple, the longer the better.
- What would your advice be for single individuals looking for their first home in KL and Selangor?
Buy small and keep on a lookout a place with high accessibilities like public transportation. At least when they need to work overseas or even settle down, it’s easier to rent out smaller units compared to the larger ones.
- How long will a property take to appreciate especially those bought for investment/quick resell purposes?
Wrong strategy and shouldn’t be applied nor considered when it comes to real estate investing. Real estate has always been a medium to long-term investment vehicle. There is simply no shortcut to this.
- Comment about Budget 2017 involving the property sector.
I hope there’s a greater emphasis on how to encourage and incentivise private sector to build mass market home between RM300,000 and RM400,000, as supply is seriously lacking and this will alleviate pressure from the urban poor.
