Launching: Dorsett Residences and Loft@Nathan

Dorsett Residences' location is adjourning to Outram Park MRT while Loft @ Nathan enjoys close proximity to the Orchard shopping belt.

Property name: Dorsett Residences by Tang Suites

Location: D2, 333 New Bridge Road

Tenure: 99 Years w.e.f. 7 Dec 2009

Launching: August 2010

T.O.P.: Late 2012/ Early 2013

Estimated prices: $1,900 - $2,000 per sq foot

Type: This 68-unit development is part of a mixed-use development comprising residential units, commercial shops and a hotel in the historic Chinatown district. The location is adjourning to Outram Park MRT and boosts three unit types and range from 484 sq ft for a 1-bedder to 1615 sq ft for a 2+Study. This six-storey development offers views of Bukit Pasoh and Outram Park, and boosts a unique infinity swimming pool overlooking Chinatown.

Property name: Loft @ Nathan by Oxley JV Pte Ltd

Location: D10, 31 Nathan Road

Tenure: Freehold

Launching: August 2010

T.O.P.: Not later than 2015

Estimated prices: $1,700 - $1,900 per sq foot

Type: This boutique-sized seven-storey property is located close to the junction of Nathan Road and River Valley Road and features 121 residential units, made up of one-bedroom, one-plus-one configurations and two-bedroom penthouses ranging from 323 sq ft to 1,184 sq ft. The units' living rooms are fitted with floor-to-ceiling glass panels for panoramic city views, while the penthouses feature Jacuzzi pools. This is also part of a mixed development with 26 shop units for sale on the 1st and 2nd storey, ranging from 269 sq ft to 1,302 sq ft. It is located diagonally opposite Valley Point Shopping Centre and enjoys close proximity to the Orchard shopping belt.

Analyst's forecast:

All three analysts surveyed feel there is a sustained demand in both the Dorsett Residences and Loft @ Nathan due to their prime locations.

According to Mr Mohamed Ismail, CEO, Propnex Realty, both Loft @ Nathan and Dorsett Residences are suited for homeowners and investors alike. That is due to the fact that more homeowners can be found residing in downtown properties such as The Sail these days.

However, both developments also cater to local and mid-range investors with the provision of smaller units. Mr Colin Tan, Chesterton Suntec International research and consultancy director feels that the units are made deliberately small so that the overall quantum is more affordable for investors.

Likewise, Mr Ong Kah Seng, Manager, Consultancy & Research at Knight Frank feels that a property’s investment potential is underpinned by its location. For Dorsett Residences, it is relatively near to the southern part of Singapore, where a variety of lifestyle and entertainment amenities can be found. Loft @ Nathan similarly enjoys proximity to the newly revamped Orchard shopping belt.

In terms of investment potential, smaller units should attract buying interest from young PMEBs who are relatively successful in their career and have accumulated sufficient wealth to own a piece of private residential property within a central location, but are still limited in their overall wealth to own a sizeable property. Smaller units are also appealing to single expatriates who are here on a limited housing allowance.

The larger units in the developments may be suitable for owner occupation but buyers may feel there are more leasing opportunities by renting them to senior expatriates who are here with their family.