In line with analyst expectations, the government will be raising development charges for residential sites by 12% for landed and 8% for non-landed sites with effect from Monday 1 March 2010.

This change will primarily impact developers looking to make new enbloc sale bids as they seek to increase the plot ratios for their new developments.  It should have minimum impact on current property prices. 

So what does it mean for the astute investor?

If anything, this increase in development charges will add to the costs of new developments and will contribute to raising property prices in the long run.  The astute investor can expect property prices around older estates (potential enbloc targets) to hold their prices better during the expected slow down later this year, especially when developers start shopping for enbloc opportunities to stock up their land banks.

What is VVIP Preview or Soft Launch?

VVIP Preview or Soft Launches are special invitations for astute investors before the public launch of a new development.  Soft Launches allow the developer to generate market demand, gauge market acceptance and determine market pricing for future phases of the public launch.

Soft Launch units are usually the most attractively priced as the developer wants to drive market demand.  Subsequent phases open to the public are almost always sold at higher and higher prices until the development is completely sold out.

The Soft Launch price will be announced on the day itself.

Priority Booking

To participate in the Soft Launch, interested investors are invited to register early for Priority Booking with Lynn.

1. Pre-select your preferred unit sizes, floor levels, and stacks from the site plan.
2. Meet up with Lynn to complete the Application Forms.  Will require 2 photocopies of the Buyer's Passport or NRIC (front and back).
3. On the VVIP Preview/Soft Launch day, Lynn can bring you into the Showroom to view the Showflat and wait for the price announcement.
4. When the price is announced, you can immediately proceed to book your choice unit if the price is within your expectation.
5. Alternatively if you cannot attend personally, you can issue a blank cheque to Lynn, made out to the developer, crossed and signed, who can book your choice unit on your behalf upon your confirmation through an official SMS.
6. Booking fee is 5% of the purchase price.

Please understand that there is absolutely no obligation to purchase when you register for priority booking.  However registering will give you the opportunity to secure the best unit at the best price before it is made available to the public.

No astute investor will allow himself to miss any profitable investment opportunity.  So don't wait, sign up now for Lynn's VVIP Preview Club and receive up to date New Launch Alerts.