Your search results

NUS Real Estate Survey Reveals Growing Optimism Among Industry Leaders

Posted by Jayson Ang on January 17, 2025

| 0

TLDR

A recent survey by the National University of Singapore (NUS) highlights increasing optimism among real estate industry leaders. The findings reveal a positive outlook for market growth, driven by factors such as economic recovery and favorable government policies. Industry experts express confidence in continued demand for residential and commercial properties, with a focus on sustainable development and technological advancements.

In the midst of the lively activity in the local real estate market, a recent survey shows a positive outlook as top executives from real estate companies anticipate a favorable upturn. The National University of Singapore’s Real Estate Sentiment Index (RESI) indicates that the first quarter of the year experienced an increase in both current and future sentiments, suggesting a possible recovery following a slow end to 2023. With a stable economy and positive macroeconomic indicators in the background, experts in the industry forecast a consistent growth path in the upcoming months.

The robust Singapore dollar has played a significant role in reducing inflation. In March, core inflation decreased from 3.6% to 3.1% year-on-year, while headline inflation dropped to 2.7% from February’s 3.4%.

One of the survey participants credited this positive trend to the financial stability of households and the low unemployment rate, which are expected to continue supporting demand and prices in the housing market.

The National University of Singapore (NUS) reported an impressive 8.9% increase in households’ net worth, reaching $2.80 trillion in 2023, with the unemployment rate holding steady at 2%. This aligns with the decrease in retrenchment rates in the first quarter of 2024.

The sentiment towards the local hotel and serviced apartment segment remains very positive among real estate industry leaders, followed by a relatively optimistic outlook on the suburban retail sector. However, respondents were less confident about the performance of the prime residential market.

Moreover, most respondents (73.5%) in the first quarter of 2024 survey identified a potential slowdown or decline in the global economy as the top risk that could negatively impact sentiments in the next six months. This marks a significant decrease from 90% in the previous quarter of 2023.

“A strong economic recovery is essential for the health of the property market. Concerns also exist regarding a possible oversupply of residential apartments, as the government has increased the supply of Government Land Sale (GLS) sites in recent quarters. The potential implementation of cooling measures is always a consideration,” emphasized a survey participant.

Approximately 29.4% of respondents expressed concerns about the increase in development land supply, up from 23.7% in the previous quarter.

Despite a slight decrease from the last quarter, job losses and a sluggish domestic economy maintained their position as the second biggest concern, with a worrying 55.9%. Inflation and interest rates, on the other hand, rose to 50.0% from 44.7% in 4Q2023.

Interestingly, government intervention in the market and the looming threat of a real estate price bubble were of the least concern, only registering at 11.8% and 2.9%, respectively.

Looking ahead, 22.2% of surveyed developers predict a moderate increase in unit prices for new launches in the next six months, a significant drop from 42.9% in 4Q2023. Conversely, a majority of 72.2% anticipate prices to remain stable, a stark increase from 47.6% in the previous quarter.

Only a small percentage (5.6%) foresees a decrease in unit prices.

Commenting on the situation, one respondent highlights the growing resistance of home buyers to exorbitant price points, resulting in more selective and cautious decisions. While developers may resort to delicate pricing strategies, drastic price drops are unlikely due to existing commitments to land and development costs. The overall demand and prices are expected to be supported by healthy household finances and a low unemployment rate.

Should You Buy, Sell or Wait?

If you’re reading this, you must be trying to figure out the best course of action right now: is it the right time to buy or sell?

It’s difficult to give an exact answer since everyone’s situation is unique and what works for one person may not necessarily work for you.

I can bring you a wealth of on-the-ground experience and a data-driven approach to provide clarity and direction. From beginners to experienced investors, our top-down, objective approach will help you on your real estate journey.

I can help you by:

Offering Strategic Real Estate Advice – I can help create a comprehensive plan to guide you through your property journey.
Connecting Your Home with the Perfect Buyers – Through stunning visuals, an effective communication strategy, and an in-depth knowledge of the market, we’ll ensure your home is presented in the best possible way to fulfill your goals.

You May Also Like …

All Buying Tips Opinion

Fresh Take: Old vs New Condos in District 15 — Which Gives Better Value in 2026?

Jayson Ang – April 6, 2026 –

TLDR District 15 condos show a nuanced split between old and new developments. Freehold projects have driven much of the...

All Opinion

Why Can’t Everyone Have Homes In Good Locations?

Jayson Ang – March 9, 2024 –

TLDR In a nutshell, the Singapore property market is undergoing significant changes, with the introduction of a new housing classification...

All Opinion

Singapore’s Property Market: Will the Newly Proposed 2023 Cooling Measures, Including a 60% Foreigner ABSD, Make Waves or Mere Ripples?

Jayson Ang – April 27, 2023 –

TLDR The recent surge in Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) rates in Singapore targets mainly foreigners and entities, with rates...

All Buying Tips

What Role Does Property Valuation Play In The Real Estate Industry, And Why Is It Important?

Jayson Ang – June 22, 2023 –

TLDR When it comes to property valuation, understanding the process is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Property valuations can...

Mandarin Top 5

The 5 Secrets To Successful Singapore Property Investing Revealed

Jayson Ang – July 4, 2024 –

The vibrant property market in Singapore has attracted numerous investors and speculators looking to profit from the nation's thriving conditions....

All Buying Tips Opinion

Three Singaporeans Share Their Experiences of Co-Owning a Property with Friends

Jayson Ang – March 18, 2025 –

TLDR In Singapore, some individuals venture into property investments with unrelated partners, driven by opportunities and personal circumstances. Jim, leaving...

All Buying Tips

What is Your Next Step in the Property Market?

Jayson Ang – December 7, 2022 –

When you flip open the papers or turn on the news nowadays, the common buzzwords are "INFLATION", " INTEREST RATE...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Tips : How To Buy A Property In Singapore As A Foreigner

Jayson Ang – June 16, 2024 –

Singapore's property market is a popular choice for both locals and foreigners looking to invest in real estate. However,...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : How Does Investing In Luxury Condos In Singapore Compare To Investing In Other Real Estate Asset Classes In Terms Of Long-Term Capital Appreciation?

Jayson Ang – December 9, 2024 –

Investing in real estate has long been considered a reliable way to build wealth and diversify one's investment portfolio. In...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons : The Benefits Of Investing In A Property With Good Access To Healthcare Facilities In Singapore

Jayson Ang – June 28, 2024 –

Investing in a property with good access to healthcare facilities in Singapore offers numerous benefits for both homeowners and investors....

All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Surprising Shifts: Evolving Trends in Singapore’s Property Market

Jayson Ang – September 7, 2026 –

TLDR Singapore’s property market is undergoing surprising shifts in 2025, reshaping long-held assumptions. Rising land costs and cautious developer sentiment...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons Why Singapore Loves Investing in Properties

Jayson Ang – March 28, 2024 –

Property investing is a popular and lucrative option in Singapore due to several reasons. Firstly, Singapore's stable and growing economy...

All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Singapore’s Property Jungle: A Guide to Every Development Type

Jayson Ang – October 12, 2025 –

TLDR Singapore’s real estate market features a diverse mix of property types—public HDB flats, executive condominiums, private condos, landed homes...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Secrets : Foreign Investors Are Rarely Told About Singapore’s Real Estate Market

Jayson Ang – November 19, 2024 –

Singapore's real estate market has been a popular choice for foreign investors due to its stable economy, strategic location, and...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Why Jayson Ang is the Best Property Agent in Singapore. And Why You Should Engage Him Today

Jayson Ang – March 9, 2024 –

In the bustling city-state of Singapore, the real estate market is highly competitive and constantly evolving. Finding the perfect property...

All Buying Tips Opinion

Freehold vs. Leasehold Condos in 2025: An Updated Performance Analysis

Jayson Ang – September 19, 2026 –

TLDR Freehold vs. leasehold condos in Singapore show nuanced performance differences over the past decade. Leasehold units often deliver stronger...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Best Instagrammable Spots in Singapore

Jayson Ang – November 7, 2024 –

Singapore, a vibrant and modern city-state, is known for its stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and colorful streets. With its...

All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

The Importance of Caution Regarding Property Oversupply in Singapore

Jayson Ang – March 10, 2025 –

TLDR Recent challenges in China's real estate sector reveal valuable lessons for Singaporeans, emphasizing the importance of understanding governmental interventions...